Whether the purchase is large or small, online shopping has changed the way we make our buying decisions. Once we’ve narrowed down our options we can easily compare prices, features, and reviews to help us choose where to spend our money. However, apartment hunting is unique.

Choosing a new place to call home is a pretty big decision, both personally and financially. Of course, you want to browse apartment communities online, but before deciding where to apply, you will probably want to assess the value of your options in-person as well.

Of course, we all want to know how to get a good deal on an apartment. First thing’s first: strategize. It’s easy to become tired and overwhelmed by apartment hunting, which can lead to impulsive decisions. Impulsive decisions can lead to regret down the road. With a few tried and true strategies, you can minimize the stress involved in finding a new place, leaving you free to slow down, evaluate your options, and make an informed choice that you’ll be happy with for years to come.

The key is starting early. With time on your side, you can learn exactly how to get the best deal on an apartment.

How To Get A Good Deal On An Apartment: The Strategies

Time It Right

Timing is everything! When it comes to signing a lease, the best time to find a good deal is during the winter.

Fewer people want to move during the wintertime, and for good reason. If you’re willing to brave the potential cold and inclement weather, you’ll be in the minority. When demand is low, opportunities for budget-conscious renters are everywhere!

It’s much more likely that the best property management companies will offer special discounts for certain apartments during off-peak months. So, if you’re wondering how to find a place to rent at just the right price, remember that a little bit of patience can go a long way.

Consider The Amenities

Cheaper rent doesn’t always mean a better deal. Take into account the amenities each apartment community provides. Don’t forget to review the fine print to see if you’ll be charged extra for services like trash collection or Wi-Fi.

Check out our complete list of must-have apartment amenities to see how each potential community measures up. A community pool, free parking, onsite fitness center, even stellar customer service, can all save you money. At the end of the day, everything is relative based on your priorities and lifestyle. Do your research and figure out exactly how each amenity could impact your bottom line.

Be Flexible With Your Floor Plan

Maybe you’re hunting for a two-bedroom apartment so you’ll have a place for overnight guests to sleep or a space to turn into your home office. Of course, it would be great to find a new place that checks all your boxes and is within your budget. However, it’s best to plan for the possibility that you won’t.

When considering how to get a good deal on an apartment, try to remain flexible with your floor plan options. If you’re open-minded about your floor plan, it can be easier to get a good deal. There are numerous ways to get innovative with your interior design should you end up in an apartment smaller than you originally had in mind. We’ve come across many creative ideas for decorating a new apartment that can help maximize the space you have.

Find A Roommate

As you begin to save up for an apartment, consider the idea of a roommate. The general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of your monthly income on housing. Once you know what you can afford, deciding whether or not to go the roommate route will be much easier. If you do decide to split rent with a roommate, the likelihood that you’ll be able to afford a more luxurious apartment community or a more spacious apartment increases.

Consider the value that living with a roommate provides. Is the money you’ll save (or the amenities you’ll be able to afford) worth a little less privacy?  The answer to that question will be unique to everyone, but it’s certainly something to ponder when you want to know how to find deals on apartments.

Corporate Partnership Program

There is one way to get a great deal on an apartment without having to compromise. Many property management companies offer partnerships with local and national employers.

A Corporate Partners Program offers discounted rent for residents who work at affiliated organizations. These offers are especially beneficial because participating apartment communities are usually close in proximity to the organizations. That means more money stays in your bank account each month with less expensive rent and a shorter commute!

What To Do Once You’ve Found The Best Deal On An Apartment

Think you’ve narrowed it down to a few options? Did you attend an open house and feel inclined to sign a lease? Pause before you commit.

Housing is usually the most expensive of all our bills, so a decision this big is worth time to ponder. Carefully review your potential lease and clear up anything difficult to understand. This will ensure that you’re able to move into your new apartment without stress.

Work Hard, Play Hard? Find Balance With Southern Management

Take advantage of our Corporate Partners program! With a $0 application charge and 5% discounts to full-time employees of our Corporate Partners, you’ll have peace of mind that you found the best deal on your apartment.

Check out our list of all participating corporations. If your company isn’t on the list, we’d still love to discuss how we can help you find your dream apartment at the best rate.

Chat with us today!