Finding an apartment

Maybe you're sick of cleaning up after your suitemates, tired of hearing the endless nagging from your parents or maybe you just feel ready. Whatever the reason, many college students these days are looking to venture off into the "real world" and get their very first apartment.

I've successfully lived in my own place for almost a year now. I've learned some things along the way that might help you find and keep your dream apartment.

Money is singlehandedly the biggest factor in determining whether or not you're ready for your own apartment. Financially, it can be a real struggle to balance work and school. This is where you need to be realistic. If you work part time earning minimum wage, you're probably not going to be able to afford all the expenses that come along with having your own apartment.

You won't just be paying rent. You'll probably also be paying for gas, electric, cable, Internet, groceries and any other necessities. You may also need to factor in things like a cell phone bill, gas for your car, car insurance or a monthly car payment. Looking for a place where the gas and electric fee is included in the rent can help ease some responsibility.

You also have to figure out whom you're going to live with or whether you'll live alone. This can be a huge factor in determining whether or not your living situation will work out. First choices are usually best friends or significant others. This can be where some trouble arises.

Sure, you and your pal have been best friends since diapers, but that doesn't mean this is the best move. Sometimes moving out together can strain friendships to the breaking point. If your BFF is particularly lazy, isn't good with holding down a job or isn't very responsible, it's probably not a good idea to choose that person.

The same holds true for significant others. You don't want to move in with someone you can't see yourself with in the future. We're not talking marriage and babies here, just one or two years down the line. If you can't see it then it's a no-go.

For the brave of heart and the financially stable, there's always the solo route. Moving out on your own has its own pros and cons as well. It can often be much more expensive since you're paying for everything yourself, but you'll make all the decisions and won't have to worry about messy or irresponsible roommates.

Now comes the hard part: finding the apartment that is truly right for you. First decide where you'd like to live. It's smart to stick with a place that's close to work or close to school so you don't have a horribly long commute.

Good places to look for apartment listings are in your local newspaper, on craigslist.org or just by driving around the area and looking for "For Rent" signs. Once you've found some that meet your needs, call as soon as possible. Apartments, especially in Buffalo, fill up fast. Make sure you schedule an appointment to see the apartment.

Once inside, don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions and test everything out. How is the water pressure? Are the walls insulated? Any problems with the plumbing? You don't want any surprises after you've already moved in.

Don't just settle for the first apartment you see either. Apartment shopping takes time and patience. You might have to look at some really horrible apartments before you finally find what you're looking for.

Before you actually move in make sure you take photos and make a list of any damages that are there before you move in. You don't want to lose your deposit over damages that are not your fault. Also, make sure you read the lease before you sign it and make sure you know the rules on smoking, pets, repairs, painting, etc.

Now that the paperwork is filed, you've paid your first month's rent and you've gotten the keys to your new place, you're ready to move!

One thing I've learned about having my own apartment is that it is a huge responsibility and it is very costly but it's really worth it. The freedom that comes with it is absolutely priceless.

Samantha Murphy can be reached by email at murphy.record@live.com.