While renting an apartment does not tie a person down the same way that buying a house does, it is still very important to choose the right apartment. If you're going to be living in an apartment for any amount of time, you are sure to want to live in a place that suits your needs. Use the following tips when hunting for the perfect apartment to rent:

Set a Budget

Before you start looking for apartments to rent, it is essential to set a realistic budget. In most cities, apartments are available at different price points, so you are sure to find something that you can afford. Don't waste your time looking at luxury apartments if the rent for these units is more than you can comfortably pay each month-- when you set a budget, you can then focus on apartments for rent that are within your price range.

Consider the Neighborhood

If you live in a large urban area, it is best to decide in advance which neighborhood that you want to live in. Think carefully about the safety of a neighborhood as well as how far it is located from your place of employment or where you go to school. It is also worth considering what type of amenities a specific neighborhood has, such as grocery stores and restaurants.

Begin Your Search Online

The internet is an excellent resource when you're searching for an apartment. Most apartment complexes have very informative websites that show floor plans, have photo galleries, outline the amenities of the complex, and list the rental prices. Narrow down your choices to three or four complexes and then make plans to visit each one in person.

Do a Walkthrough

It is always in your best interest to do a walkthrough of an apartment before signing a lease. Don't make the mistake of relying on photographs alone when deciding on an apartment to rent. Many apartment complexes have model apartments available to show to prospective tenants. While these model apartments can give you a good idea of what to expect, it is also a good idea to ask about the location of apartments available so you can determine where they are located in the complex before you sign a lease.

Ask About Discounts

Many apartment complexes offer new tenants great discounts for signing a lease, such as one or more months of free rent. These discounts can be quite valuable and help offset moving costs. Ask the apartment complex manager about incentives for new tenants when you tour the properties.