Dallas Apartment Guide

When is the Best Time to Rent an Apartment?

couple receiving apartment keys from realtor

Are you looking to move into an apartment soon and want to know when the best time is? Many factors must be considered, such as which month has more vacancies or which amenities fit your budget. Let’s break down what matters most while renting so that you can find the right place at a great price!

Generally, timing is important for finding deals, in addition to searching multiple resources. Additionally, evaluating seasons and months will yield different results based on location since rent costs vary across cities due to various conditions, such as weather patterns and local demand. So, let us explore further how this affects rental prices throughout the year!

Consider the Cost of Luxury Apartments in Dallas

Renting an apartment is a major decision, so it’s important to think carefully and make sure you choose the best time. When looking at apartments in Dallas, consider their cost if they’re luxury units. This will have an impact on when you rent them. The most expensive months are usually May through August due to high demand and limited availability of premium rentals, with some landlords raising prices during these months by 10% or more.

Additionally, winter can be pricier as well due to holiday events that bring visitors into town. On the other hand, rental costs tend to dip significantly from September until April since there’s less competition for housing and fewer people moving into town then too.

Compare Benefits and Costs of Different Seasons

It’s also essential to consider the cost of living for each season. Different climates can cause higher utility bills, and out-of-season items might be more expensive than usual in some places. In addition, think about what else may occur during that time.

Increased traffic due to business conferences or conventions will make apartment hunting more difficult until it subsides. On top of all this, holidays can bring expensive rental specials, which could have you paying too much if not researched properly beforehand. Therefore, doing your research around possible expenses should be part of the process when deciding a move date, as well as making sure potential amenities are available during that certain period throughout the year.

Examine Available Services for Each Time Period

If you’re looking for a long-term rental, then it’s best to plan in advance. The availability of services often varies by season and time period. However, when searching through different vacation rental websites, ensure they provide the amenities you need throughout your stay.

Utilize those sites which allow comparison between properties so as to make an informed decision regarding pricing and convenience factors like proximity to public transport links or attractions. Consider also if any special offers are available during off-peak times, such as discounts on stays exceeding a certain duration, which would be worth considering in the details before making a booking. Also, review the rating system provided with each property listing along with customer feedback prior to finalizing accommodation facilities.

Always check the terms and conditions set out by individual companies; this gives detailed information about what is included within the nightly rate, alongside refund policies, should plans change suddenly towards the end of the tenancy agreement.

Research School/University Schedules if Applicable

It’s important to research school or university schedules, if applicable. Knowing when classes are in session can help determine the best time to rent an apartment. The summer months may be particularly busy as new students arrive and existing ones look for apartments before the fall semester starts.

People moving during these periods should book early, as it won’t just be them looking! Springtime is also a popular choice, especially with people embarking on internships or job opportunities near campus who need something long-term but don’t want to commit for a year yet. In that case, searching ahead of peak season can ensure you find the perfect place without all the competition from other renters.

Just ensure your rental dates line up properly, so things don’t get confusing down the road!

Analyze Factors like Weather and Traffic Patterns

It’s also important to consider the factors that play a role in when you should rent an apartment. For example, weather and traffic patterns can influence your decision as well. In areas with hot summers or cold winters, look for apartments that have air conditioning units or heating systems which are functional enough to provide comfortable indoor temperatures despite outdoor climate fluctuations.

Additionally, check if there’s local public transportation nearby, so you don’t get stuck commuting during peak hours of heavy traffic congestion. Such hassles will end up costing more time than money later on! Therefore, research ahead beforehand, so it’s easier to make informed decisions on when renting is ideal for you, given all the relevant information available at hand.

Renting an apartment can be a daunting task, and at Dallas Apartment Locators, we understand the importance of timing. Generally, it’s best to start looking for your next place between 30-60 days before you need to move in. That way, you have plenty of time to find the perfect rental for your needs without being pressured into making too hasty decisions.

Also, bear in mind that certain times throughout the year may offer better offers, such as during the summer when demand drops off or late winter, which is traditionally a slow season, so take advantage when possible!

At Dallas Apartment Locators, our team of experts is here to help make your rental journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team is here with expert advice and support every step of the way, no matter what time of year it is! We’ll provide all the assistance you need to make sure you get your dream apartment without having to worry about the complicated process of researching and analyzing factors like weather, traffic patterns, and prices.

March 27, 2023Comments Off
What to Consider When Looking for an Apartment in Uptown Dallas

Are you a young professional looking to move to Uptown, Dallas? That is the best decision you are going to make about your social life and experience. Uptown Dallas is famous for being home to many young people with a median age of 33.3 and for its breathtaking apartments. But we know that choosing an apartment can be an overwhelming process. But it does not have to be that hard. That’s why today we are discussing the factors to consider when choosing an apartment in Uptown Dallas.

Location

Location is the primary factor many consider when looking for an apartment anywhere. They check if the apartment is within or outside the city center and the distance of the apartment from where they work, and other social amenities. Luckily enough, Uptown Dallas offers just that. It is located just outside the city and has all the necessary social amenities. Uptown Dallas is composed of several mini-neighborhoods.

  • West Village Dallas, which is the north part of Uptown Dallas.
  • The Pearl Dallas, which is the southmost part of Uptown Dallas.
  • Victory Park Dallas is directly connected to the Pearl connected to Uptown and Downtown.
  • State Thomas Dallas is on the east of McKinney Avenue.
  • Routh South, right on McKinney Avenue.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a different experience and personality. Each of them has its own strengths and weaknesses depending on the kind of lifestyle you want to live. Here is something about each neighborhood:

Walkability

When looking at location, we ask ourselves which neighborhood in Uptown Dallas has the best walkability – i.e., you can walk within 7 minutes and reach key features. You will find that when living in Uptown Dallas, you don’t need a car because all the key services are just within walking distance. However, some areas are closer to your needs than others.

The West Village, the Katy Trail, and the Uptown Dallas Trolley are some of the areas with the highest walkability.

Social Life

I imagine you don’t want to live in a boring neighborhood with no fun activities. Well, Uptown Dallas is very generous in its social life and scenery. Also, you want to live in an apartment where it’s easy to meet new people and make friends, because what is life without friends anyway? So, what are some factors to consider to ensure an apartment in Uptown Dallas does just that?

  • Apartment Organized Events: Some apartments in Uptown Dallas are so committed to giving their residents opportunities to meet. They understand meeting new people is important for their residents, so they make it easier for them. These meet-ups can happen onsite at the apartment or offsite at Uptown Dallas restaurants or night spots.
  • Apartment Design: An apartment design can make it easier or difficult to meet people. The more a design gives you common areas, the easier it is to meet new people. For example, a shared mailbox area, a single garage entrance/exit, and a shared hallway to enter the building from the street allow you to meet people. But don’t worry; Dallas Apartment Locators can help you find an apartment that meets your needs.
  • Proximity to tourist attraction sites: An apartment close to tourist attractions will allow you to meet people. Although you may meet people in nightclubs, restaurants, and shops are better for meeting people. So, look for apartments located near these facilities.

The Real Apartment

You want to consider the structure of the actual apartment if you are going to get it. Apartments in Uptown Dallas come in different varieties. Some are luxurious high rises, some attractive mid-rises, and some traditional flats.

Mid-rise is the most common apartment design in Uptown Dallas. These apartments have the most value for your money, with their interior and exterior features. They also give you the most opportunities to meet people because most of their characteristics are commonly shared.

High-rise apartments are also popular. They have the best views and the most additional services, and they are the most expensive apartments.

Traditional apartments are no longer being built, although several traditional-like apartments exist. These traditional apartments are the ones you think of when you think of your room in college. Or a first-type apartment with stairs and no elevators, your door opens to the outdoors, older features inside, and floor plans that are basic and small.

The most important feature you should consider when choosing an apartment in Uptown Dallas is how new the apartment is. Let’s see why:

  • Newer apartments are greener and conserve energy better.
  • It’s just lovely to live in a place where you are the first resident or the second.
  • Newer apartments are good-looking.
  • People are interested in apartments.
  • Newer apartments have better amenities.

Amenities

You also want to consider the amenities in Uptown Dallas to determine the desirability of the apartments. Apartments with the most amenities are not always the most desirable. However, well-designed and maintained amenities always contribute to the desirability and popularity of an apartment.

Some amenities to look for include:

  • A parking garage that is secured by an electronic key at no extra charge.
  • Washer/dryer included at no additional charge.
  • A well-maintained pool with grilling.
  • Professional gym with cardio equipment and some free weights.

Always remember:

  • Better amenities mean a better social life for you because the better the amenities, the more likely you are to meet other people.
  • Compare better amenities more than rent because better amenities will cut down your overall living costs.

Take Away

Those are the four most important factors to consider when choosing an apartment in Uptown, Dallas. Carefully examine each factor to ensure that any apartment meets your preferences. The end goal is to get an apartment that fits your ideal lifestyle.

At Dallas Apartment Locators, we help people find their ideal apartments in Uptown, Dallas. We walk with you every step of the way, touring, looking at the available apartments, and finally allowing you to choose your ideal apartment. Reach out to us today and find your ideal apartment in Uptown, Dallas.

March 3, 2023Comments Off
Uptown or Downtown Dallas: Which is Which?

Typically, downtown areas are the most preferred by professionals, either due to their cultural significance and resilience or because they are convenient for everyone. But thanks to luxury apartments in Dallas uptown areas, most professionals have reversed their preferences. In addition, there are various other reasons that make uptown a favorite residential area among professionals.

This article will compare Uptown and Downtown Dallas to help you choose the most appropriate one according to your lifestyle preferences.

Social Life

Uptown Dallas is a vibrant neighborhood and the most exciting to live in, especially if you have just left college. But unlike college vibes, uptown Dallas offers more vibrancy, which is one of the reasons it has a high percentage of young professionals.

Additionally, uptown Dallas is not only vibrant during the day but till late at night. If you take an evening walk down McKinney Avenue, you will hear lively chats, laughter, and lots of music as people unwind after the whole day at work. This social scene is the most appealing aspect that attracts young professionals.

Downtown, on the other hand, is bustling during the day. But unlike uptown, downtown features high-rise buildings and plenty of parking lots. As a result, there are not many green spaces for outdoor gatherings. But while the recent creation of Klyde Warren Park tries to add some greenery to the neighborhood, the traffic does not go beyond five o’clock.

Besides, the downtown is largely vacant, which makes it look isolated. When it comes to clubbing, popular clubs like Deep Ellum are geared toward all ages. And as a result, they do not permit smoking or alcohol due to the presence of teens. The area only features a handful of clubs for over twenty-one, but they hardly go till late at night. For this reason, young professionals looking for vibrancy prefer uptown Dallas.

Meet, Eat, Connect

All uptown Dallas restaurants and attraction centers are created with progressive and urban professionals in mind. For example, restaurants like The McKinney Avenue Tavern and Belly & Trumpet are designed to provide excellent ambiance and services that favor 22 to 28 years old customers.

According to D Magazine, four out of the top leading restaurants in Dallas are located in the uptown areas. Actually, number two on the list was the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle, located at the heart of uptown Dallas. While the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle has a known history of being the most romantic restaurant in Dallas, other restaurants have historical significance. Also, most restaurants in uptown Dallas serve till late at night, thus giving customers enough time to catch up.

Unlike uptown, Downtown Dallas has a handful of restaurants, and most don’t operate late at night. Although they are ideal for all ages, their time restrictions do not favor young people that need to meet and connect with friends. Some of the popular downtown restaurants are Bob’s steak, Chop House, and Buca de Beppo, which serves Italian food. People looking for traditional American cuisine head to Café 43, located at the George W. Bush Presidential Center.

Crime Rate

When it comes to residents and their property safety, uptown Dallas is the most desirable. The community was built with the concept of neighborhood cultures that encouraged social interactions. The designers were also mindful of pedestrians, and as a result, it is well-lit and enjoys regular patrols.

Additionally, Uptown Dallas Inc. has established a communication tree and Block captain program. The two work as the neighborhood watch and are responsible for keeping the residents safe and informed. For example, Uptown Dallas inc. is tasked with keeping the email address database of all uptown residents. The database is critical for communication purposes (e.g., sending alerts, advisories, or bulletins). Downtown Dallas safety measures are nowhere close to these arrangements.

Looking at the rate of crime, the uptown crime rate is significantly lower thanks to the neighborhood committee and excellent street lights. Also, the neighborhood enjoys some high levels of peace may because over 90% of the residents are active professionals who are busy with work. Crimes like aggravated assaults, burglaries, and robberies are not as common as in other neighborhoods.

Social Amenities

In addition to hosting top restaurants and attraction sites, uptown Dallas is also home to many academic institutions. Whether you are looking for elementary, middle schools, or higher educational institutions, uptown Dallas has you covered. Residents have the option to choose between public and private institutions, thus making the neighborhood suitable for everyone.

Uptown Dallas also hosts top-ranked shopping malls, including the Uptown Plaza Dallas, West Village, Nicole Kwon, and whole food market, among others. For furniture and interior décor, Restoration hardware, Ebanista, and Arsin Rug Gallery offer top-quality items.

Although Downtown Dallas has shopping outlets, some of which have existed for decades, they cannot be compared with uptown shopping malls and shops. Even downtown residents looking for luxurious furniture, accessories, and interior décor prefer shopping at uptown shopping outlets. Since the younger generation doesn’t like the hassle of faraway shopping, they prefer living in uptown areas where everything is up to their class, test, and preference.

Attraction Sites

Uptown Dallas is the most desirable when it comes to attraction sites. Some of the most visited places are Pinstack, Kalita Humphrey’s theater, Dallas Museum of Art, and Electric Shuffle. Other places to visit include the Dallas Children’s Aquarium, Daisha Board Art Gallery, Globe Life Field, and Kessler Theater, among others.

Downtown Dallas also has numerous terrific places to visit, such as the Dallas World Aquarium, the Museum of Illusion, and the Dallas Museum of Art, among others. While both the downtown and uptown Dallas attraction sites have historical, cultural, and social significance, the uptown Dallas attraction sites are more advanced.

While various factors influence people’s decisions when it comes to residential areas, uptown Dallas has everything anyone would want in a residential neighborhood. For example, the area features luxury apartments, enjoys high-security levels, and fun places ideal for an entire family.

March 2, 2023Comments Off
Know Before You Go – How to Plan the Perfect Dallas Apartment Hunt

Landing a new apartment can be an exciting milestone. But before you put pen to paper and sign a long-term, legally binding lease, our Dallas apartment experts recommend working through the following list. That way, you’ll cover all your bases, avoid any unexpected and potentially costly surprises and make the transition into your new home smooth and uneventful.

 

Fees

Many Dallas apartment communities assess certain fees upfront, just to get the process started. This helps property owners and landlords to weed out undesirable candidates and also covers some of the costs they incur as part of their evaluation process. At the bare minimum, these fees typically include an application fee as well as a fee for running credit and background checks. You should also know ahead of time how much money you’ll need to come up with to cover the security deposit.

 

Credit Score

Almost all landlords and property owners will run some type of credit check to assess whether a prospective tenant will be reliable and capable of paying the rent on time and in full. It’s a good idea to know in advance what type of credit score you have. If it’s not great, that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to find a nice apartment. It could just take a little more effort. Being upfront and honest during the initial evaluation process will go a long way.

 

Rent and Other Expenses

How much will the monthly rent be and what’s included in that amount? Are there any utilities included, and if so, which ones? What additional amenities would you be required to dish out extra funds for if interested, such as parking or use of the fitness center? Note – it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower rate for rent and other extras. The worst they can say is no.

 

Pets

If you share your life with a furry friend, you may find it a bit more challenging to find an apartment willing to accept you both as residents. This is one of the reasons working with an apartment locating firm like us can be so beneficial, as we know the ins and outs of most local communities. In any event, if you do plan on keeping a pet, make sure you know what the policy is, particularly in terms of a pet deposit and/or any additional fees that may be tacked onto your monthly rent amount.

 

Maintenance

Different communities handle maintenance in their own way. Some require residents to cover the costs while others incorporate these expenses in the total cost of rent. It’s a good idea to know in advance what the policy and procedure is, and what may be expected of you in the event that your apartment requires a repair.

 

Are you in the market for a new Dallas apartment? Don’t waste your precious time and energy searching on your own. Give our experienced apartment locators a call today. We have an impressive inventory and already know the answers to the above questions and more. Best of all, working with us won’t cost you a penny.

 

Ready to learn more or get started? Call us at (214) 999-1161 or fill out our online form here.

April 1, 2021Comments Off,
Apartment Hunting from Afar: How to Maximize a Virtual Apartment Tour

 

Searching for an apartment during a global pandemic can be downright challenging. Many property managers and landlords have turned to digital tools to meet the new social distancing requirements, which means renters must now rely on virtual tours rather than in-person showings.

 

With experts predicting this trend will continue even after things return to normal, it’s important to know in advance what to expect in order to make an accurate assessment of a property. Here’s what our apartment locators recommend.

 

Preparing Ahead

There are a few things you should do before you schedule a virtual apartment tour. These things will ensure that the meeting goes off without a hitch and that you find out everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

  • Charge your cell or laptop battery.
  • Make sure you’ve got a strong, reliable WiFi signal.
  • Choose a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted or distracted.
  • Research the property and neighborhood.
  • Prepare your list of questions in advance.

 

Questions to Ask

One of the biggest challenges of taking a virtual tour of an apartment is that you can’t physically inspect the place in question. To avoid any unexpected disappointments, make sure cover all the important points during your digital meeting. At the very least, be sure to do the following:

  • Ask to see each room from multiple angles.
  • Request a close-up view of all the appliances.
  • Ask to have the water turned on, particularly the shower to assess water pressure.
  • Ask to have the windows opened. This will help assess the view and gauge noise level.
  • Ask about the WiFi and cell phone signal quality. This is especially important if you plan on working from home or attending online classes.
  • Request a list of amenities, such as parking or pool use, and ask whether they are included in your rent or will cost extra.
  • Find out whether there are laundry facilities on-site (hookups in-unit, laundry room in the building, etc.)
  • Ask for a tour of the rest of the building and grounds.
  • Inquire about the guest, roommate and/or pet policies (if applicable).
  • Find out whether any utilities are included in your monthly rent, or if you’ll need to pay them separately.
  • Ask who is responsible for maintenance costs.
  • Ask whether there are any additional fees to prepare for, such as application fees.
  • Ask about lease terms and move-in availability.
  • Find out how much of an investment will be required upfront (e.g. first month, last month, security deposit, pet deposit, etc.).

 

And, of course, you’ll probably have a bunch of other questions that are specific to your own needs and preferences. The more you inquire about during your tour, the easier it will be to narrow down your options and choose the Dallas apartment that’s perfect for you.

 

As searching for apartments online continues to become the norm rather than the exception, being as prepared in advance as possible will become your ace in the hole. Signing a lease is a big commitment, and that doesn’t change when you are touring properties from afar. In fact, it’s even more important to be diligent upfront in the age of virtual apartment hunting.

 

Have more questions or concerns? Interested in learning more about our inventory of luxury Dallas apartments for rent? Get in touch today! We’re happy to help.

March 12, 2021Comments Off,
Don’t Call Us, We’ll Call You. What’s the Deal with Employment Verification?

 

Applying for a new apartment typically involves a decent amount of paperwork. If it’s a quality apartment, chances are one of those documents will be a consent to perform a background check and employment verification. But do they really follow through with these things, or are they just doing it for show? After all, it is a great way to weed out those who already know they wouldn’t qualify. So, should you give your boss a heads up? Here’s what our apartment locators say you can anticipate happening.

 

What to Expect

In almost all cases, a good landlord or property manager is going to be thorough in screening tenants. For the credit report and criminal background check, most rely on third party screening services to do the legwork. Employment verifications, on the other hand, are typically handled personally. Obviously, each property is different and each individual has his or her own qualification process, but at the very least, you can expect that proof of income will be on the list.

 

Common Requirements

Oftentimes, a landlord or property manager will require tenants to maintain an income of a certain percentage above and beyond the monthly rent amount. For instance, it’s not uncommon that an applicant be required to have a monthly salary of at least three times the amount of rent. Of course, this amount is not set in stone, but it’s a benchmark used by many, so it’s a good starting point when shopping for Dallas apartments.

 

Requested Information

There are a few specific things that are usually on the list when a landlord or property manager contacts an employer. Generally speaking, they’ll be looking for the following:

  • Verification of Employment
  • Length of Employment
  • Income Verification

In order to obtain this information, you will likely be required to sign a release form. This is because most employers will refuse to provide any details without written consent. You may be able to skip ahead of this step by requesting a document from your boss containing this information on company letterhead. Whether or not this will be acceptable will ultimately depend on the landlord.

 

Additional Information

As mentioned, not all landlords are the same. Some require far more information than others before they’re willing to qualify a prospective tenant. For instance, in addition to pulling your credit report, running a criminal background check and verifying your employment, some landlords or property managers will also want to verify your rental history. This means a potential call to your prior landlord to ensure there have been no issues with you as a tenant. Be prepared for this, just in case.

 

The Importance of Honesty

If there’s anything in your background or about yourself that you feel may hinder your ability to qualify as a good tenant, just be honest. For instance, if you’ve recently changed jobs or have struggled a bit lately with finances, be upfront about it. The landlord may very well be willing to work with you, but only if you’re forthcoming right from the start.

 

Curious about the steps it takes to rent an apartment in Dallas? Our experts are happy to answer any of your questions. Get in touch today!

February 22, 2021Comments Off,
To Insure, or Not to Insure: Should You Invest in Renters Insurance?

Renters insurance is a specific kind of insurance coverage that is designed to protect your belongings when you don’t own your own home. Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers everything including the structure of a dwelling, renters insurance focuses primarily on the contents contained within a particular rented unit. Simply put, renters insurance policies provide compensation for things like loss of or damages to personal property and expenses incurred by forced re-homing.

Now that you know what renters insurance is, however, the big question becomes, is it something worth investing in? Here are a few important things to keep in mind.

 

Other insurance may not, and probably WILL not, cover your losses.

Many apartment renters make the mistake of believing that, in the event of damage or theft, their belongings will be covered under whatever insurance coverage the property owner has in place. Unfortunately, they learn a difficult and costly lesson when they discover that this is very rarely the case.

Let’s say a pipe bursts in the apartment above yours, causing water to leak in through your ceiling. That water damages your furniture and destroys some of your other items. Or, let’s say someone breaks in while you’re out one evening and steals some of your jewelry or other valuable items. Or, what about if someone visiting your apartment gets injured.

In any of these scenarios, you would likely be on the hook to cover all of your own losses, damages and expenses. And if you don’t have insurance, that could mean a substantial amount of money out of your own pocket.

 

Some apartments require tenants to maintain renters insurance.

Another important thing to consider is the fact that many apartments actually mandate that all tenants carry renters insurance coverage. In doing so, this provides an added level of protection against liability for the property owner.

If renters insurance is required for a particular apartment, it’s usually written right into the lease agreement, but you should double check with your landlord or apartment locator service to make sure you’re in compliance, just in case.

 

Not all renters insurance policies are created equal.

The good news is, when it comes to renters insurance, your options are many. Most major insurance providers offer this type of coverage, and many offer multiple different plans and coverages to choose from.

When comparing policies and determining which coverage is right for you, consider your personal needs and circumstances. How much value do you place on your personal property? How old is the building you are renting? These are questions you should ask yourself first, so that you’ll have a better idea of what type of coverage you’ll need. Discussing your situation with an insurance agent can help as well.

 

Renters insurance is surprisingly affordable.

If you’re on a tight budget, it can be tempting to forego renters insurance, but doing so may cost you big time in the long run. Thankfully, renters insurance is actually quite affordable, and purchasing a policy is super easy. Plus, when you compare the negligible upfront investment to the potential losses you could incur if you were not covered, it becomes abundantly clear just how worth it this type of policy is in the long-term.

 

Still have questions or need more guidance on apartment living? Get in touch! Our team of experts can provide advice and help point you in the right direction.

January 9, 2021Comments Off
To Renew or Not to Renew? 3 Critical Things to Know About Lease Renewals

The topic of leases usually comes up when you’re looking for a new place, but what about when that lease period is up? 12 months can fly by pretty quickly, and it’s important to have an idea of what your options are, as well as what renewing an existing lease may or may not entail. If you’re perfectly content where you currently are, and your landlord is also happy with you as a tenant, re-upping for another year may be the obvious choice. That said, here are few important things to consider, from our apartment experts.

 

You aren’t guaranteed a chance to renew.

Just because you love where you are living, doesn’t mean your landlord or property manager loves having you there. Even if you are a stellar tenant, there a variety of reasons a lease may not be up for renewal. For instance, the apartment building may be up for sale or scheduled to undergo some major renovations. Or, the landlord may have another tenant lined up that he or she would prefer (which is their legal right, once the lease is up).

Before you bank on simply re-upping your lease for another year or two, make sure this is even going to be an option. Ask your landlord or property manager well in advance. That way, if their plan is different from yours, you’ll have ample time to start looking for another place and won’t be left scrambling when the lease expires.

 

Your terms you originally agreed upon may no longer be the same.

A lot of things go into determining the terms of a lease. For instance, cost of living and fair market value at the time a lease is signed are both taken into consideration when determining monthly rent costs. Many of these factors may change over the course of the lease, however, so it’s important to understand that what you agreed to the first time around may not be the same when you go to renew.

Your new lease may include a rental increase, a longer lease period, or other updated or new terms that weren’t in the original agreement. Be sure you are fully aware of what you are agreeing to before you sign on the dotted line. Keep in mind, also, that you may be able to negotiate some changes in terms with your landlord as well. Provided you have been an outstanding tenant, it’s typically in their best interest to work with you rather than have to find a new tenant to replace you.

 

You may be required to re-apply.

Just as external circumstances that impact rent costs can change a lot over the course of a lease term, the circumstances of the tenant can change as well. For instance, your income may have dropped significantly, or you may now be cohabitating with someone else. Landlords understand this, which is why they often require existing tenants to go through the application period again whenever the lease expires.

A new application provides landlords the protection of being able to run a new credit and/or background check to ensure that you are still a good investment. This isn’t something that’s always required, but it does happen, so be prepared, just in case.

Whether or not you will be able to continue to live where you are now once your lease is up will depend on a number of factors. It’s wise to be aware of the different possibilities in advance. That way you can avoid costly and frustrating surprises once the lease officially expires.

 

Lease renewal coming up soon? We may have a better place for you! Get in touch with us before renewing to see if a move may make more sense.

January 9, 2021Comments Off
Size Matters: How Much Apartment Square Footage Do I Need?

There are a number of factors to consider when deciding which Dallas apartment is right for you. For instance, do you need a place that’s pet-friendly? Are there certain amenities that are “must-haves”, like a fitness center or free parking?

Then there’s the question of size. You don’t want to end up locked into a lease only to find out the place you’ve chosen doesn’t have nearly enough space. On the other hand, you also don’t want to be paying more for a place that’s too big for your needs. Our Dallas apartment locators explain how to determine the ideal square footage below.

 

Average Apartment Sizes

Knowing what the average apartment measures in at can provide a good foundation. Generally speaking, the average studio apartment is about 500 square feet. According to Rent.com, here are a few more baseline calculations:

  • 1-bedroom: 750 square feet
  • 2-bedroom: 1075 square feet
  • 3-bedroom: 1300 square feet

 

Calculating Square Footage

You can determine the exact square footage of a space by multiplying its width by its length. This practice can become challenging, however, because not all apartments feature rooms that are neatly shaped into a square or rectangle. If you’re looking at a place that has outcroppings, for instance, you can calculate the overall size by sectioning off squares or rectangles and then adding the square footage of each together.

Of course, if you’re working with an apartment locator, like someone from our team, you can simply ask them to provide you with the exact measurement. This makes things much easier for you!

 

How Much Square Footage Do I Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it will ultimately depend on how much space you personally prefer. It’ll also depend on how many people will be living there. In general, the minimum amount of space needed per person is 200 square feet. Again, this is the bare minimum. In reality, a space of around 400 square feet per person would be much more comfortable.

There are additional factors to consider as well when determining how much room you’ll need in your apartment. For instance:

  • If you work from home, would a studio with a dedicated office space work? Or, do you need a separate room with a door?
  • Do you entertain frequently? If so, a separate dining area or larger living area might be best.
  • Do you require storage space for bigger items such as a bike?
  • How big is your furniture? (For reference, a king size bed needs at least 169 square feet.)

You’ll also want to weigh your budgetary needs as well. Bigger apartments tend to cost more in terms of utilities, like heat and electricity. You’ll want to be sure you’ve got enough to comfortably cover these added expenses before jumping into a long-term lease.

 

Still not sure how much square footage is right for you? Don’t sweat it. Our Dallas apartment experts can match you with the perfect amount of space for your needs. Best of all, it won’t cost you a penny to work with us! Get in touch today to learn more or get started.

November 20, 2020Comments Off,
5 Things to Know About Living in Dallas

 

As the largest inland metropolitan area in the entire country, Dallas is as diverse as it is massive. If you’re new to the area, there are a lot of things you probably don’t know about “The Big D,” many of which could make living here even better. To get the inside scoop, we asked our expert Dallas apartment locators to list the top five facts about living in this incredible city. Here’s what they had to say.

 

It can be pricey…unless you have connections.

The cost of living in Dallas is around 7.6% higher than the national average – especially when you figure in other expenses, such as groceries and utilities. Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place. Our team has connections with property managers in some of the most exclusive Dallas apartment communities and can match you with a place that suits your needs, preferences and your budget. Best of all, it won’t cost you a penny to work with us.

 

Getting from here to there is super easy.

The DFW area may be large in size, but getting where you need to go is easier than you may think. In fact, no matter what neighborhood you choose to lay down some roots, there are a variety of ways to get around. The DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) system, for example, runs from o’dark thirty (a.k.a. 5 a.m.) through midnight and the fare is cheap. There are also a ton of ride-share options, and most of the neighborhoods rank very high on the walkability scale.

 

It’s not as “big city” as you may think.

The downtown Dallas skyline may be iconic, but there’s a lot more to this area than highways and high-rises. In fact, natural resources and recreational opportunities abound all throughout DFW and the surrounding communities. Grab a paddleboard and head over to White Rock Lake, enjoy a bike ride along the Katy Trail or spend the day hiking through one of the many nature preserves. With beautiful weather year-round, Dallas is the perfect place for someone who loves the great outdoors.

 

It’s a food lover’s paradise.

They say everything’s bigger in TX, and when it comes to appetites, this is certainly the case. Regardless of which neighborhood you choose to live in, you’re sure to be surrounded by your pick of cafes, restaurants, clubs and bars. And if you can’t find a place to eat that satiates your taste buds, just look to the plethora of food trucks that always seem to be popping up around town. From fancy rooftop dining to casual comfort food, one thing’s for sure – you’ll never go hungry!

 

If you like free stuff, you’ll love Dallas.

One of the nicest things about living in Dallas is the access it provides to so many free events and activities. Klyde Warren Park, for example, provides a full calendar of complementary stuff to do, from yoga and Zumba classes to outdoor movies and more. Jump on the free McKinney Ave Trolley and explore the Uptown area. Or, mosey over to the Arts District to visit one of the many free museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art, which is one of the largest in the country. If you’re on a budget, this city’s got you covered.

 

What are you waiting for? Get in touch today. We can help make your dream of living in Dallas a reality!

November 3, 2020Comments Off, , ,