20 Days till Graduation

...and I applied for my first real apartment. While it is not guaranteed that I have it at this time, at least it is an important step to solidifying post-graduation plans. For those of you who do not know how apartment hunting works, it sort of goes like this:

1. Search for places online within desired location and budget range, and then initiate contact 
2. Set up showing times 
3. And based on your criteria, you will select the best apartment for your financial and personal needs
4. Wait and see if your credit score and other credentials are checked before approval (IF no one has put in before you)
5. Sign a lease

Now, criteria is extremely important. I am blessed that I have an older brother who has gone through this process as it helped with knowing what to look for, what questions to ask, and simply knowing when the time is right to settle. I wanted something bigger than a college apartment. I wanted a dishwasher. I wanted a pantry. And I wanted a washer and dryer. (Unfortunately, the washer and dryer dream will have to wait.) Bring along or ask for a tape measure. It helped with the final decision, as I had to be sure a queen-size bed could fit comfortable in the bedroom.

 Questions that you should ask are - What is included? (heat, water, garbage, garage, electricity, etc.) Is the heat gas or electric? Where is the nearest grocery store, hospital, or tornado shelter? What is the price, square footage? Are pets allowed? Who do I contact if something breaks? Is the apartment internet or cable ready? (If this is important to you. I'm not getting cable.) And what are the policies the building tenants need to follow, like are there quiet hours? Hopefully, all the answers will help lead you to find the perfect place. 

I found most of my preferred characteristics in a wonderful, loft style apartment. It sits on the first floor, so I have a small patio where I can walk out into the grass and look at an artificial pond.

It felt weird and nerve-racking to sit down and sign paper after paper, acknowledging the apartment could be my space soon. But after that hour of signing, I knew I was ready for the next step in life. I hope within the next few days, I will receive good news. If not, the search will continue.

Graduation: 20 days and counting. . .




If anyone has tips on car hunting, please comment below!