Guide to apartment hunting in NYC
Have you finally decided to move to New York City? If so, it is about time you started apartment hunting. Even though it may sound easy to find an apartment in the Big Apple, the truth is quite different. New York City housing is incomparable to any other city around the world. Thousands of people make hopeful attempts each day and are still unhappy with what they find. On the other hand, some other people prefer to hire a moving company to deal with this and take care of their belongings. Only when you start your apartment hunting will you realize how much you need storage companies NYC area offers. Therefore, do not wait any longer, and read our guide to apartment hunting in NYC.
Start your research on time
Don’t plan your big move the night or the week before. Moving to New York City is a tricky task, and planning is essential. While you may believe that any neighborhood in New York is suitable for you, think again. Even though most areas have been redeveloped, there are still places that are not suitable or affordable. Moreover, they may be far away from your office or school. Begin researching the area and available apartments at least a month ahead of time. This way, you will have plenty of time to decide what is good for you, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each place. Moreover, you can try to use the official websites for apartment searches from the comfort of your home, and inspect the area personally, if possible.
Wait until the summer months are over
Apartment hunting in New York during the summer is extremely stressful, so avoid it if possible. During the summer, college graduates flood into the city. Moreover, families with more flexibility in their schedules begin looking for modern housing, and tourists go on holiday. Prices typically skyrocket as a result of increased demand, and it is impossible to find even small storage units NYC has for storing your belongings. If you can postpone your New York City dreams until November, please do so. Though there may not be as many options as there were during the summer, competition will decrease, leaving more room for negotiation. Maybe you will have to miss a few family holidays to conduct your search, but you will save your nerves and money.
Guide to apartment hunting in NYC says: be realistic about your budget
As previously stated, the cost of living in New York is significantly higher than in many other places. It would be a good idea to estimate your budget before you choose New York City as your hometown. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are among the highest in the country. This applies to apartment hunting too. The cost to rent an apartment is around $3000. Additionally, you will have to pay for your moving services, such as a moving truck. If you go for the Manhattan area, you will invest even more. The average price for renting an apartment here is around $5000, not to mention storage space Manhattan which is one of the most expensive in the area. Therefore, before you start your apartment hunt, make sure you calculate the costs carefully. You don’t want to experience unpleasant situations later.
Look into potential neighborhoods
It is important that you feel at ease in your new NYC neighborhood. This means that you will probably have to visit the area before you make a deal. Talking with the locals and observing the place will help you make an opinion. Maybe the place feels cozy during the day, but it’s noisy at night. Moreover, look for the most important facilities in the neighborhood. You don’t want to travel long-distance just to do grocery shopping. Apart from this, you will need a NYC apartment storage facility, to keep your items while you are moving or inspecting the area. Therefore, make sure you pay attention to details. Remember, you are trying to find you forever home.
Keep an open mind
Many television shows and popular movies give the impression that New York apartments are opulent lofts with plenty of space and an artistic atmosphere. To disappoint any dreamers, the reality differs slightly. Affordable apartments are often quite small, and lack amenities such as washing machine and dishwasher. Furthermore, the city’s average rent has risen in recent years to around $3000. Brooklyn may be a better option for you if you are looking for units with more space, amenities, and a cost-effective component. Just remember to weigh the pros and cons and your apartment hunt in New York City will be successful.
Try to find a roommate
Are you an independent person determined to conquer the city and make it on your own? Maybe it is time to swallow the pride and forget about dignity, because that doesn’t work in New York. Having a roommate is often a key to successful life in the Big Apple. If you wish to spend the rest of your life in the Manhattan area, finding someone to share the costs would be a nice start. This can be someone whom you know, or anyone found on an online forum. However, make sure you agree on specific terms such as location, costs, and lifestyle. You don’t want to spend a year with someone who is completely incompatible or untrustworthy.
Final words
Moving to New York City is what many people dream about. The Big Apple is a place with lots of opportunities. However, finding an apartment in New York is not easy. This is a difficult task that requires careful planning. People usually read a guide to apartment hunting in NYC so they can find their place successfully. When you try to find the apartment, always take into consideration your budget, neighborhood area, as well as the time of your relocation. Moreover, it is a better idea to live with someone, due to the costs. Whatever you decide to do, keep in mind that each process of moving is hard, but exciting. You can also be one of the lucky people who live in one of the best cities in the world.