Lyndsay Fogarty
In 2020, the median price of a single-family home in Florida rose to approximately 7 percent more than its median price the year prior, according to Florida Realtors. Hence, the amount of people downsizing from houses to apartments increases daily, partly due to the economic crisis brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. If you are one of those who are looking to save money by renting, here are 3 things you need to be aware of about apartment living in Florida.
Preparing For Apartment Hunting
During your apartment hunt, you must come fully prepared, both in terms of requirements and research. The most common requirements are a credit report, a recent paycheck to show proof of income, a bank statement, and a government ID. Be sure to have these on hand when browsing so you can apply for a rental right away. Sometimes, landlords also ask for a letter of recommendation from your previous landlord. When selecting a new apartment in Florida, you must be ready to act quickly. You will need to set aside at least a month to move into your new home. It would take a week or more to find an apartment that fits your preferences. Applications can take two weeks, or longer if you have to meet with an association to rent the condo. You will also need at least a week to gather your belongings and relocate them to your new apartment.
Understanding Which Type Of Rental Is Best For You
Ultimately, the types of apartments you should browse will be determined by your budget and your needs. If you live alone, you can save money by moving into a duplex or even a studio apartment. If you have a family and are short on funds, a garden apartment or housing cooperative may be best for you. If you have a lot of disposable cash, you can consider renting a condo or single bedroom apartment if you live alone. Townhouses and multi-bedroom apartments would be good choices if you have a family and have some income to spare. You should also pay attention to the difference between flats and apartments. Some listings may use the word flat to refer to a multi-suite apartment that features a communal space. Others may use it to refer to a low-quality or single-story apartment.
Issues That May Arise
There are several issues that you should watch out for once you have settled into your apartment. These can be something as simple as noisy neighbors to as serious as a pest infestation. Noise, secondhand smoke, water shortages, and waste disposal issues can all be fixed by compromising with fellow tenants and your landlord. However, complex problems can arise that will require you to have a thorough discussion with your landlord and hire professionals. For example, having to renovate the interior of your apartment to improve ventilation and lighting, or improving the building’s security following a break-in. Accidentally breaking your apartment’s by-laws is another issue that might come up. Be sure to discuss these rules with your landlord and keep a written copy of them to help you remember. If you find something disagreeable, such as a no pets policy, you can negotiate a separate rental fee to avoid future problems. It is also prudent to brush up on the rights of landlords and tenants, according to Florida law.
Florida is one of the best places in the US to be a tenant. With a little patience and savvy, you too can be at home in the Sunshine State as a renter.
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