Five Tips for Finding the Perfect Apartment in San Angelo

Let’s face it: finding an apartment is a pain in the ass. Prices are rising, availability’s decreasing and half of them in San Angelo are painted some ugly golden-brown color that blends right in with the dirt.

If you’re new in town, you’ve got to find out which neighborhood you want to live in and which ones to avoid, and about 90% of the offices seem to be closed on weekends. You’ve got to work to rent, but you’ve got to take off to look.  It’s exhausting.

As I currently find myself in the looking phase, I’ve compiled five tips I’ve learned along the way based on interviews with a number of San Angelo’s leasing staff.  One final tip stands out, and I’ll give you that first: Know what you’re looking for. If you don’t know that, it’s senseless to start thinking about the rest.

5. Ask About Discounts

That’s right, discounts. Believe it or not, there are complexes in San Angelo that give them, even in our current economy. Granted, these apartments are few and far between—and as ironic as it may seem, unless your one of the guys making the big bucks, you’re probably not eligible anyway—but asking won’t cost you anything either.

4. Personalize Your Visit

This may seem like a no-brainer, but in research for this article I came across many apartment managers who emphasize this point alone as a critical deciding factor in whom they choose to lease their property to. Most have even said that they’ll give a little leeway to individuals in extenuating circumstances, however no one wants someone living on their property who can’t hold a decent conversation in the interview process. Property is valuable—we all know that from a glance in the apartment guide—and you wouldn’t be inclined to entrust a complete stranger with your valuables either.

3. Parking Lot Madness

In case you haven’t noticed, there are apartment complexes in San Angelo whose parking lots seem to have been drawn up by a drunk. Neat and sufficiently-spaced rows of vehicles have been replaced with a scattered smattering of cars and trucks. And in many cases, they seem to have gotten to know one another quite well, once all the matching dings and dents are taken into account. We’ve also got a gated community infamous for weekend fence-crashing. Needless to say, the state of the parking lot is a good indicator of how your future neighbors will respect your property

2. How Old is the Carpet?

While it may seem a bit auxiliary, the age and condition of the carpeting is not something to be taken lightly. Sure, you’ll want to consider the overall appearance and state of the kitchen appliances, but in making your final decision, make sure you don’t overlook what’s beneath your feet.

Fact is, carpet is disgusting. It’s typically old, stained and will become stretched, and it’s a trap for germs and smells. Think about how many people come in and out of the average apartment, and what they do in their private space. Then multiply that number by the age of the carpet and ask yourself: Is a simple shampooing once a year enough to make you want to sprawl out or roll around in it? I think not.

1. Speak with Current Tenants

Looking for a new apartment is not the time to be shy. Chances are, the office staff are going to rave about the quality of life and the anemities their complex offers, and chances are there are regulations in place that prohibit them from giving you an honest opinion. Since you’re going to be on the property anyway, take the time to approach someone who currently lives there and ask a few questions. You may want to know how strict or loose the management is, whether or not the complex is quiet, and if they’ve had any problems with neighbors or guests. Taking a few moments to inform yourself right at the beginning can save you a lot of trouble later on.

Got tips or tricks you used to find your apartment, or maybe just some honest advice about where to go? Write us a comment and share it with our readers.