It doesn’t matter if you are renting a house or an apartment for that matter, the basics never change. Buying property and renting property are not so different after all except for the fact that in the latter, you only get possession temporarily. But the same amount of work and effort goes into renting, since there are vital things to be considered before signing that lease or agreement.

Here are a few tips on how to look for the best, at the best price!

Decide on what to rent: Normally you want to rent a house in the suburbs or you might want to rent an apartment in the city. Take into account all the pros and cons before making up your mind. If you are going for that nice two or three-bedroom house in the suburbs, with a small garden and all the parking you will ever need, factor in how much time it will take for you to get to the city. You will have to commute a lot, not just you but everyone in the family.

However, if you are willing to take the subway or carpool with your office buds to work, taking up an apartment in the city doesn’t sound so bad after all. You won’t have to travel far for all the necessities that might be needed including groceries and provisions, with your favorite restaurant just a couple of blocks away.

This will majorly depend on the occupancy and convenience for that matter. An apartment in the city just might get a bit crowded, if the family is big. If it is just you and your girlfriend or spouse, find a place to stay which is close by to where you work or at least well connected. If you are a family of four with little Jack and Jane wanting to ride their bikes down the street or play with other children in the neighborhood, get a place in the suburbs.

Consider all costs: Renting an apartment or house for that matter is more expensive than you thought it might be in the first place. Consider all the short term and long term costs that you might be incurring, other than the actual rent. Make a list of what all might be needed, in case the apartment or house is unfurnished, take those costs into account. Also make a list of what is not needed, since hoarding unwanted stuff will just add to your problems.
Consider other factors like decorating, whether minor renovations allowed or not, whether pets are allowed or not, are the lease or rent terms beneficial for you first and foremost amongst many other things.