For the class of 2013, May brings an end to college life, but an exciting start to new careers and new communities. In just a few weeks post-grads will bolt into new employment opportunities, and actively be looking for new places to call home.
When you first get out of college, things can feel a little stressful. After you land that coveted first post-grad job, chances are you’ll be looking for your first post-college apartment. It could very well be the first apartment that you’ve had on your own, and possibly the first place you’ve had without a roommate. What should keep an eye out for, and what can you do to make sure you get the right Milwaukee area apartment?
First, check out the neighborhoods. A good neighborhood is something that can sometimes make or break your living situation. If you notice that the area has a lot of trash in the streets or abandoned properties, it is in your best interests to move on to another option. You’ll also want to consider proximity of the neighborhood to things like your workplace, grocery stores, drug stores, health clubs–anything that you may need on a daily or weekly basis.
Second, consider where you will park your car overnight. It could be that a neighborhood is totally accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. If you are in a more suburban area and require a car, find out if the apartment community you are looking at has garages or underground parking. Some apartment complexes in Waukesha county and Milwaukee county have garages, others have assigned parking spaces. Make sure to ask the apartment manager of any complex you are considering.
Third, find out if the apartment you are considering has a good laundry option. Laundry is an irritating chore, and the easier it is for you to do it, the better off you will be. Do you want a washer and dryer in your apartment, or are you comfortable using a convenient shared laundry area or local laundromat? If you send laundry out or have a lot of dry-clean-only items in your wardrobe, check to see how close the apartment is to the nearest dry cleaner.
Finally, if you are considering an apartment with several stories, think about how you will move your things into your new home. Some apartments with multiple floors have elevators, but others do not. If you have a beautiful and heavy armoire, for example, how do you feel about heaving it up four flights of stairs? It’s a good idea to consider how you will move your possession both into and out of your new apartment.
In most cases, the apartment property manager will be able to give you helpful information about the neighborhood, local businesses and amenities offered with your apartment. Talk to the right people, ask the right questions, and you’ll be able to find the perfect place!