How to Decide Between Renting a House vs Apartment

Sure, you could take them out to eat at a restaurant, but what if you want to cook for them? You can rent an apartment with a large kitchen and an impressive dining area to host an intimate social gathering for family and friends.

No sense in letting someone else swoop in and steal that perfect unit from you! Remember to keep up your stellar reputation, so that the process is every bit as smooth the next time. Check out HUD.gov’s online map, an interactive tool that lists apartment buildings it has worked with through Section 8. Upon receiving your Section 8 voucher, HUD allows 90 days for residents to find a new place that’s decent, safe, sanitary and will pass inspection prior to moving in. In order to find apartments near you that accept Section 8, your search starts online. Section 8 is a government-based program created by the HUD that benefits low-income residents who need assistance with paying rent. In order to qualify, families or individuals need to make less than a certain amount.

Keep reading to learn how to read and write accurate apartment reviews. Writing an apartment review isn’t difficult and can improve accessibility for some in your apartment community. Are renters’ rights protected, for example, or are the units safe and up to code? Because of high demand and low inventory for Section 8 apartments, the waiting list, maintained by the housing authority, can take years — the length and wait-time depend on your local market. If the PHA decides that your family is eligible, you’re added to this list. If you’re interested in this program, you need to meet the requirements, which include family status and size, gross income, citizenship status, criminal history and eviction history.

An income-restricted apartment limits the rent of all apartments within the complex to no more than 30% of the area’s average income. The eligibility requirements are similar, but they are two different programs. Look for your average annual salary reported on pay stubs, invoices, or your tax returns. The government pays the difference between the actual rent cost and your maximum rental payment. It’s also important to know as you read or evaluate reviews that not all are objective. An apartment’s website is only one piece of information but a great apartment review can share feedback on how management works and the overall strength of an apartment community.

How to Read and Write Accurate Apartment Reviews

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This is why production companies rent apartments through platforms like Peerspace. They can have immediate use of a furnished space that looks like someone’s home.

These dwellings are usually more prevalent in cities with an abundance of old buildings, such as San Francisco. While many options exist, sites such as Realtor.com allow you to implement various filters to help you find trusted listings that include accurate information about each rental property. You can also filter out listings that are no longer accepting applications so you don’t waste your time. If there isn’t anything in the lease agreement laying out pet rules or possible fees, ask your landlord, and get any important information in writing.

In the end, property managers want a tenant who will make payments on time and be a positive, respectful member of their community. Especially in colder climates, property managers may ask that you move during warmer months to reduce the risk of damage to the apartment building. First off, the landlord or property manager may not be the person giving your tour. So you may have to set up a separate meeting with them to discuss your application. Other income-based programs through the federal government include Section 42 housing and Section 8 housing.

How to start the apartment approval process

It’s important to note that income-restricted properties differ from income-based properties. An income-based apartment caps the rent price of eligible renters to 30% of their adjusted gross income. Once they know that you make enough money to afford the place, the landlord needs to know that you’ll actually pay rent when it’s due. When you fill out the apartment application, you give them permission to do so. That depends on the size and location of the apartment, as well as the amenities it includes.

Rent like a boss!

From there, you can filter your search by price to ensure you don’t see any listings outside your budget. Below, check out our nine smart hacks for finding a cheap apartment.