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my first move- any tips?

i've lived in the same place my whole life, and now i am moving to maryland in a matter of months. i will be renting an apartment, and of course i do not expect to strike gold on my first move. but i would like some suggestions so that i'm not in a complete shithole. i've researched my target places online with apartment ratings websites already. when i go to visit them before moving, what are 'good' and 'bad signs' that i should i look for? what types of questions should i ask? i don't even know what to ask you guys, any type of advice at all would be welcome. thanks!

Public Comments

1. Always tell the movers how must stuff needs to be moved and to where and then ask them for a cost estimate. Do this with several moving companies and shop and compare. Also, ask for references if possible and check their reputation via online searches.
2. Visit it during different times of day/night if you can. Nothing worse than moving to college party central. View all the facilities not just the model apartment...laundry, pool, front office. See if you can talk to a resident...maybe someone in the office while you are there. Ask them if they ever had any problems, were the problems addressed quickly, etc.? Google them (put there name and the word complaint) and see if you see people ranting about them online. Check the better business bureau to see if they have had any complaints about them. Consider staying in a weekly stay hotel while you look. www.extendedstayamerica.com has some nice places. It can save you having to make a rash decision. Things to ask: 1. First ask yourself, what is important to you? Do you want a quiet place to rest your head? If so, choose an apartment complex with mainly older residents and few college students. 2. If you like parties, pick the apartments that college students use. 3. What items are covered in the rent? Sometimes some utils and/or cable is covered. 4. What are the amenities. 5. What do I do if I have a complaint or a problem with another resident (loud residents)... 6. Note their parking. Are you going to have to walk a mile to your apartment. This requires you to go there several times during different times of the day. We have a place called apartment hunters. They may be in your area and are free for you to use. The apartments give them a kick back or something. They will be honest and give you a list of apartments matching your specs. www.apartmenthunters.com.
3. When moving to an unfamiliar area , I'd check with the local police in the town you are thinking about moving to and see what they say about the area. (Crime, Safety, Etc.) They know better than anyone. Then I'd look at the Apartments, Stores close by, Transportation, Schools, etc. if this pertains to your situation. Talk to the people in the apartments that will be close / next to yours. Just say Hi, and that your thinking of renting so and so apartment, they will tell you all about the landlord. People love to talk about their Landlords. (Good or Bad) You get what you pay for, but is a cheap place to rent good for you if Crime is high and Safety is of a concern in the area?