Things to Look Out for When Deciding on an Apartment

Written by Greystar

Edited by Greystar

Lifestyle December 2, 2024

We understand that choosing the right home for you involves many different factors besides the obvious location and price. Knowing just what to look for in an apartment during your search, including all the little details, can make the difference between finding a place and finding a home.

At Greystar, we've helped countless residents find their ideal living spaces, and we're sharing our expert insights to help you make an informed decision.

The Floorplan

Of course, your apartment's location is important to consider. When considering location, think of your commute time, proximity to amenities like grocery stores and restaurants, and the overall neighborhood vibe. But have you ever given much thought to the actual layout?

When touring an apartment, you should evaluate the layout carefully. The way the space is laid out has a direct impact on your day to day. Does its overall flow match your lifestyle? Consider these key factors:

Natural light and window placement
Room sizes and proportions
Closet and storage space
Kitchen layout and workflow
Bathroom accessibility

A gallery wall of artwork behind a couch in a home library, surrounded by books and decor, with sunlight streaming through the window to brighten the space.

Essential Systems and Safety Features

One of the most important aspects of apartment hunting is evaluating the unit's essential systems. Turn on every faucet to check water pressure and temperature. Test all electrical outlets – bringing a phone charger is an easy way to do this. Pay attention to the heating and cooling system, asking about:

Type of temperature control (central or window units)
Average utility costs
Maintenance schedule for HVAC systems
Filter replacement policies

Safety features should never be overlooked. A quality apartment should have:

Working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
Secure windows and doors with functional locks
Well-lit common areas and parking spaces
Clear emergency exits
Fire extinguishers in accessible locations

Of course, many apartment buildings take care of these items so you don’t have to. But it’s worth it to double check. If you find that too many items are missing or faulty, you may want to consider other options.

A handyman reaching up to repair a smoke detector in an apartment building, with a modern light fixture behind him and clean, white touches throughout the space.

Look Closely at Condition and Maintenance

The current condition of an apartment can tell you a lot about how well it's maintained. Examine walls, floors, and ceilings for signs of water damage or cracks. Open and close all doors and windows to ensure they operate smoothly. In the kitchen and bathroom, look for:

Signs of mold or mildew
Proper ventilation
Quality of fixtures and appliances
Cabinet and counter condition
Tile and grout maintenance

Consider the Community and Amenities

Your apartment experience extends beyond your unit's walls. Think carefully about what you’re hoping to get out of the overall community. Certain features can enhance your lifestyle and can even cut out some costs you may be spending elsewhere. Take note if there are “out of order” signs on laundry machines, if the package room is a mess, the cleanliness and age of exercise equipment, and more. Some of these amenities may include:

Fitness center and equipment quality
Pool and outdoor spaces
Package reception systems
Parking availability and security
Laundry facilities or services
Pet policies and designated areas
Community gathering spaces

A view of an apartment pool with a modern apartment building behind it, set against a backdrop of a mountain in the distance, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.

Details and Overlooked Features to Consider

Some details that may seem small could end up being a big inconvenience. During your tour, check for:

Cell Phone Reception: Walk through the apartment while on a phone call to check signal strength. Poor reception can be a major inconvenience in today's connected world.
Outlet Placement: Consider where you'll place furniture and electronics. Are there enough outlets in convenient locations?
Sound Transfer: If possible, tour during busy times to assess noise levels from neighbors, common areas, and outside. Pay attention to footsteps from above and voices from adjacent units.
Storage Solutions: Some apartment buildings offer storage beyond closets. Ask if there are additional storage spaces on the property. This may come in handy, especially for seasonal items.

Making Your Decision

After touring potential apartments, take time to review your observations. Consider creating a pros and cons list for each property, weighing factors like:

Overall value for the price
Location convenience
Community atmosphere
Maintenance responsiveness
Amenity quality
Long-term viability for your needs

A view of someone writing a list of pros and cons in black ink on a notepad, holding a pen, with a white background.

At Greystar, we understand that choosing an apartment is about finding more than just a place to live – it's about finding a home. Our communities are designed with attention to detail and maintained with resident satisfaction in mind. From responsive maintenance teams to well-designed amenities, we focus on creating environments where residents can thrive.

Take note of these positive signs during your tour:

Clean, well-maintained common areas
Professional, knowledgeable staff
Transparent communication about policies
Pride in community appearance
Happy, long-term residents

With these guidelines and Greystar's expertise, you're well-equipped to make an informed decision about your next home. Our leasing professionals are here to help you explore our communities and find the right fit for your lifestyle. Visit our website to browse apartments today.

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