So, you’re in the market for a new Apartment. If you’re looking to move places, cities, or even across the country, identifying a timeline for apartment hunting is important to securing your ideal unit. How do you know when it’s the best time to start looking for apartments? Many renters make the mistake of starting their search too early or too late, so we’re here to give you the inside scoop on the optimal apartment hunting timeline. Here’s how to know when it’s time to start looking for a new apartment.

First step: Identify your move-in date

Identifying your move-in date is the first step in the apartment hunting process. Many rentals require 60 days notice if do not plan to renew the lease for your current unit. Your apartment management company will likely send you updated lease documents within 90 days of the end of your lease term. Once you have the information on the new terms of your lease, including monthly rent increases, you can decide if you want to commit to another long-term lease, opt for a month-to-month or short-term rental option, or start your search for a new apartment. If you’re been wanting more living space, or you want to make the move to a more desirable area, this is your chance for a fresh start. Once you’ve made the decision to move and have identified your move-in date, you can begin the apartment hunting timeline.

Apartment hunting timeline:

90 days from move-in date

The rental market is best when you’re looking 1-2 months in advance of your expected move-in date. If you start looking for an apartment 3 months in advance, you’ll run into the problem of availability. What’s available 3 months in advance of your move-in date will likely be unavailable when you’re ready to move in. If you’re in a particularly desirable market, these numbers are even more applicable. However, while 90 days is too soon to start touring units, you can use this time to identify neighborhoods of interest and buildings in those areas that you’d like to keep your eye on. If you have a pet, you can start your search by identifying which buildings in the area have pet-friendly units. Use these 90 days to narrow your search and to get an idea of what floorpans and amenities are appealing to you.

Having priorities, requirements, and even a checklist of what you want in your next place will help narrow down your search further down the apartment hunting timeline. Consider which of the following amenities you need and which you could live without:

• Parking space
• In-unit laundry
• Dishwasher
• Backyard/yard for pet
• Swimming pool
• Elevator
• Fitness center
• Resident lounge/common space

60 days from move-in date

Begin your search for available units within 60 days of your move-in date. By now, you should have an idea of the type of rental unit you’re looking for and your desired general location. You can now start to browse available listings online. The rental inventory will be up to date during your search and you’ll be ready to schedule a tour of potential units once you find something. To help with your search, consider the location of each apartment.

Think about which neighborhoods you could see yourself in and which ones are off the table. You’ll want to factor in:

• Budget
• Commute to work
• Favorite places/hobbies and interests
• Public transit
• Cafes, grocery stores, restaurants                         

An apartment that is close to your work, but far away from all your favorite weekend spots, might not be the right choice. Decide what your definition of the ideal apartment is, then narrow down (or broaden) your search as you go.

If you live in an area where the rental market is more competitive, 60 days is the ideal time to get going with scheduling tours, viewing units, and even signing a lease. Whereas other markets allow for a shorter timeframe of 30 days.

30 days from move-in date

If the property is described as “available now”, it’s likely that the landlord wants to rent it out ASAP. This is perfect for someone with a move-in date of 30 days or fewer.

When you’re around 30-40 days out from your desired move-in date, start touring some apartments virtually or in-person to get an idea of what they’re like. Pictures don’t always do a place justice, nor do they always portray an apartment accurately. Scheduling an in-person tour or video walkthrough of an apartment is a great way to see what the place is really like and if you could see yourself living there.

Ask your future landlord these key questions before you make a decision. Take into consideration the surrounding neighborhood, ask about the neighbors or fellow building residents, and make sure you know what your commute to work would look like. Be prepared as your tour available units and come with necessary paperwork and your completed rental application so that you can secure your apartment before the competition.

Get ready for your move

Now that you’ve found your ideal new living space, it’s time to get ready to move. Use the next 30 days or so to pack your belongings and schedule movers. If it’s finding a place that you’re concerned about, don’t worry. Apartments become available and hit the market daily, so there will always be something out there that fits your needs. Just remember to start your search well in advance to move-in date and you’ll be prepared when you find your new living space.

Frequently asked questions about apartment hunting

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