All the Apartment Hunting Tips You Need (to Find a Place You’ll Love)
Looking for a new apartment can be exciting. But it can also be confusing, stressful, and even a little scary. That’s why we put together all the apartment hunting tips you need to help you feel calm and ready.
This guide will help you avoid common mistakes, find a better deal, and choose a place that fits your real life—not just your wish list.
Let’s get started!
1. Be Honest About What You Really Need
Before you click on any listings or schedule a tour, stop and think. Ask yourself: What do I need to feel good in my home?
It’s easy to focus on things like pretty floors or stainless steel appliances. But those things might not really make you happy in the long run.
Instead, think about:
- Do I like being around people, or do I want peace and quiet?
- Do I want to walk to a coffee shop or gym?
- Do I feel better in a bright space with natural light?
- Do I like seeing neighbors or being left alone?
These may sound small, but they matter. Write down what has worked in your past apartments and what didn’t. That way, you don’t forget during the search.
2. Avoid the #1 Mistake Most Renters Make
Here’s the biggest mistake renters make: choosing an apartment that doesn’t match their lifestyle.
Sometimes people get wowed by how a place looks. Or they stretch their budget to get more space, even if it's far from friends or work. Later, they feel lonely, stressed, or stuck.
Remember: A pretty kitchen won’t help if your commute is awful or you can’t afford to go out anymore.
3. Look During the Off-Season to Save Money
Most people move in the summer. That means apartments are in high demand and prices go up.
But if you look during March, April, September, October, or November, you may find:
- Lower rent prices
- More options available
- More power to negotiate
According to Rent.com, rent prices can drop by up to 3.5% in the off-season in some cities.
4. Try to Rent From a Private Owner
Big apartment companies often care more about filling units than helping you have a good experience. Private owners, on the other hand, may care more about finding a good tenant than making the most profit.
How to spot a private listing:
- The photos may not be as polished
- The listing may be on Craigslist (in some cities)
- The landlord communicates directly, not through a leasing office
Renting from a person instead of a company could mean fewer rent hikes and a more personal experience.
5. Don’t Fall for Rent Tricks
Some apartment buildings offer “one month free” to lure renters. Sounds great, right?
But here’s the trick: they’ll still raise the rent based on the full price.
Let’s say rent is $1,500/month, and you get one month free. That makes it sound like you’re paying $1,375. But when your lease ends, the increase will be based on $1,500—or more.
Tip: Only sign if you can afford the full price, not just the discounted rate.
6. Use Light and Layout to Fight Stress
Where you live affects how you feel. One of the best ways to protect your mental health is to choose a place with good natural light and a comfortable layout.
Here’s what to check for:
- Big windows (especially south-facing)
- A view of plants or trees
- A living room with at least one window
- A space that doesn’t feel like a dark box
Bonus: Lighter floors hide dust better than dark floors. So if you hate cleaning, go light.
7. Learn to Negotiate (Yes, You Can)
Even renters can negotiate. Here's how:
- Check how long the listing has been up. If it's been a few weeks, the landlord may be open to talking.
- Offer a longer lease. For example, offer 18 months instead of 12.
- Bring something to the table. Maybe offer to paint yourself or move in right away.
Always be polite and kind. You want to build a good relationship, especially if it’s a private landlord.
8. Think Past the Checklist
Checklists are helpful. But being too strict can hurt your chances of finding the right place.
Instead of saying “it must have this,” ask:
- Does the overall space feel good?
- Can I make this my home?
- Is it close to the things I do most?
Sometimes the best apartments are the ones you almost passed over.
9. Don’t Get Fooled by Fancy Extras
Some buildings brag about their “lifestyle” features:
- Movie rooms
- Game lounges
- Golf simulators
- Shared workspaces
But many of these spaces sit empty. If you tour a building and the amenities are quiet or closed, that may be a sign.
Ask yourself:
- Will I really use this?
- Would I rather have a bigger unit or cheaper rent?
It’s okay to enjoy extras—but only if they add value to your real life.
10. Watch Out for Pressure Tactics
If someone says, “You need to sign by tonight,” that’s a red flag.
High-pressure tactics = danger. It could mean:
- They’re hiding something
- The unit isn’t in high demand
- They want you to act before you think
There will always be another apartment. Take your time.
11. Tour the Neighborhood First
Don’t just tour the apartment. Tour the area around it.
Check for:
- Walkable coffee shops and grocery stores
- Safe sidewalks and lighting
- Public transport (if needed)
- The “vibe” of the people and places nearby
Try walking the block at night and during the day. Does it feel safe and comfortable?
12. Look at What You Do Daily
Before you pick your new apartment, think about your day.
- Do you work from home? You’ll need good light and space to focus.
- Do you love to cook? A small kitchen might make you grumpy.
- Do you watch a lot of TV? Then couch space matters more than crown molding.
Design is important, but it should support your life—not just look nice.
13. Use This Simple Apartment Hunting Checklist
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect apartment takes time. But when you slow down, think clearly, and plan well, you can avoid big mistakes and find a place that truly feels like home.
Remember: You’re not just renting a space—you’re building your lifestyle.
Looking for a Place in Milwaukee or Green Bay?
Enigma Properties is here to help. We’re a local property management company with apartments all over Milwaukee and Green Bay. We make the renting process simple and stress-free.
Whether you're looking for a cozy studio or a family-friendly two-bedroom, our team will help you find a place that fits your needs and your life.
Ready to start your search? Contact us today to learn more or schedule a showing.
