Renting and Securing an Apartment
The time has come to leave the nest. The little birdie has to spread its wings and fly on their own whether they like it or not. The process is often overwhelming and difficult and the results can end up being great or awful. But knowing what you’re getting yourself into ahead of time can save you all kinds of headaches down the road.
Check the crime climate of the city/town/neighborhood you are considering moving to. Often we make moving decisions based on convenience and price. However consider spending a little more (or even less) if another location is safer but less convenient.
Protect your identity. Landlords almost always ask for a Social Security Number in order to check an applicant’s credit prior to considering them for a move. It is generally not an option to say NO. However by investing in a credit freeze or credit monitoring you can reduce your risks that the Social Security Number will be used for identity theft.
Check out potential roommates. I did the roommate thing throughout my entire 20’s. I had the best and the worst roommates of all times. Some, I am friends with today and others, I wish I never met. There are numerous considerations to be made. The most important consideration is your personal security. Do a background check before signing a lease with a potential roommate. Determine if they have any type of a criminal history. A background check may also determine if they have even been bankrupt.
Ask the landlord about options for installing an apartment security alarm for maximum safety. Apartment security systems today are easy to install for a do-it-yourselfer or certified alarm dealer. Often they require minimal wiring which means the landlord should have a problem with it. Wireless home alarms are even easier and only require batteries and two sided tape. If the landlord opposes an apartment security system, then the apartment is the right fit for you.
Robert Siciliano personal security expert to Home Security Source discussing burglar proofing your home on Fox Boston.
