Before you sign
A first apartment is exciting, but the paperwork and costs deserve attention before the decorating. Things to consider ahead of time:
- Your budget. A widely used guideline is to keep rent to around 30% of your gross monthly income, though it is a rule of thumb rather than a requirement, and your own situation may call for something lower.
- Total monthly cost. Rent is only part of it. Add utilities, internet, renters insurance, transport and any parking or pet fees.
- The lease. Read it carefully, including the term, rent due date, late fees, rules on guests, subletting, pets, and how and when you can end it.
- The neighborhood. Visit at different times of day to check noise, parking and the commute.
If something is unclear, ask the landlord or property manager to explain it in writing before you sign.
Red flags when touring
Check the apartment yourself rather than relying on photos. Guides on first-time renting commonly suggest testing lights, faucets, outlets, appliances, windows and locks, and looking for:
- Water stains, peeling paint or a musty smell, which can point to moisture
- Signs of pests such as droppings
- Poor water pressure or slow drains
- Doors and windows that do not lock properly
- Missing or non-functioning smoke alarms
- A landlord who is vague, unresponsive or pressures you to sign quickly
None of these automatically means you should walk away, but they are worth asking about and getting resolved in writing.
What can disqualify an application
Landlords set their own criteria, and rules vary by country and region. Common reasons for a rental application being declined include insufficient income compared with the rent, a poor credit history, previous evictions or unpaid rent, incomplete or inaccurate information on the application, or lack of references. If you have a thin credit history, which is common for first-time renters, ask what alternatives are accepted. A co-signer or guarantor, a larger deposit, or proof of savings are options some landlords consider. If you are declined, you can usually ask why.
How much to save
There is no single figure. Guides often suggest having several times the monthly rent saved to cover the security deposit, first month’s rent, any application or moving fees, utility connection charges and basic furnishings. One commonly cited guideline is around three to four times the monthly rent, but the right amount depends on local deposit rules and what you already own. Check the actual charges listed by the landlord, then add a cushion for surprises.
Document the condition on day one
On move-in day, take dated photos and videos of every room, including any scratches, stains, damaged walls or broken fixtures. Fill out any move-in condition report and keep copies. This helps protect your security deposit if there is a dispute when you leave.
Set up utilities, mail and insurance
- Arrange electricity, gas, internet and any other services so they start on the day you move in.
- Update your address with your bank, employer, phone provider and postal service.
- Consider renters insurance. It is often inexpensive and is sometimes required by the lease. Check what it covers.
- Keep the landlord’s contact and emergency repair numbers in your phone.
Your first-night kit
Pack a bag or box you keep with you: toiletries, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, bedding, toilet paper, basic tools and a few snacks. For more detail, see must haves when moving into a new home.
What to buy first (and what to wait on)
Prioritize items that make the space livable:
- A bed and bedding
- Basic kitchen items
- Towels, a shower curtain and bathroom basics
- Cleaning supplies
- Lighting
- Somewhere to sit and eat
Furnishing doesn’t have to happen all at once. It is common to spread purchases over several months and borrow, buy secondhand or accept hand-me-downs; more ideas are in our guide to how to furnish a home for cheap. Measure doorways, stairs and elevators before buying large furniture; see our tips for moving furniture. For a full room-by-room list, see things you need in a home.
Make a small space work
First apartments are often small, with limited closets. Before buying storage, declutter and decide what you actually need. Use vertical space with shelves or over-the-door hooks, look for furniture with storage inside, and keep surfaces clear. Many of the storage ideas for students work well in a first apartment too. If you are deciding between layouts, our comparison of studio vs 1 bedroom apartments covers how space and storage differ. When you start unpacking, our tips for unpacking after a move can help you get organized quickly.
FAQ
What should I do before I move into an apartment? Read the lease, set up utilities, arrange insurance, measure your space, and plan your move.
What are red flags when renting an apartment? Signs of moisture or pests, broken locks, vague answers from the landlord and pressure to sign without time to read.
How much money should I save? It varies, but several times the monthly rent is a common starting point. Check the actual deposit and fees.