5 tips to make finding your first apartment in New York City a breeze!
5 tips to make finding your first apartment in New York City a breeze!
So, you want to rent an apartment in New York City? I know you think it’s difficult, but you have no idea. Oh, the hoops you will have to jump through just to sign your lease! Now, this isn’t going to be a post where I rant about my apartment struggles. I just want to offer some food for thought and tips for renting your first apartment in the Big Apple.
Tip 1: location is everything - unless you are balling in cash, you’re going to want to be as close to a subway as possible. You also have to make sure that the subway station you live near houses the trains you need. What’s the point of having a bomb apartment, but you can’t even get to school on time?
Tip 2: Roommates! There are many reasons why having a roommate is a great option. For one, it can cut your rent in half, duh. You’ll learn to expect the unexpected in NYC, so it’s always nice to have someone to come home to on a not so great, or chilly day. In addition to that pick your roommates wisely. Don’t ever room with a friend that is irresponsible and untrustworthy, no matter how much fun they may be or how close you are to them. Living with someone who is irresponsible can go south real quick.
Tip 3: Be open to more than just the trendy areas. I know we all want to live on the trendiest block where all the action is. But New York is a city full of gems. Try looking outside the box, and search in neighborhoods that are safe with a special something about them.
Tip 4: Know what you can and can not afford. Budgeting is key. It’s clear, living in New York is expensive, but I was still so shocked at how much money it takes just to live and have your needs fed. Side note, the more features a apartment has, the more expensive it is. For example: washer and dryer, elevators, a doorman, security.... All of those luxuries will cost you a significant amount extra. So prioritize what features you can and can’t live without. Make sure you and your roommate are on the same page with what you are willing to live without.
Tip 5: Most apartment buildings in New York require a guarantor. A guarantor is someone (parent or guardian) who has good credit and guarantees that your rent and bills will be covered and paid for, if you can’t yet do it yourself. Since most of us don’t have a full time job, we don’t have a steady income. This is completely fine, and if you are in a position to ask for help, don’t be afraid to a ask your parents - they want to see you thrive.
If you have any questions, shoot me an email and I will try my best to get back to you! Getting your first apartment is amazing and tons of fun, but it also comes with another level of responsibility and stress. Don’t let it get the best of you! There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Never give up and remember you DO deserve the best.
Xoxo Dessy
