Looking for an apartment in Atlanta? Atlanta is a very spread out city with a lot of different neighborhoods. Finding the area that is right for you is key to narrowing down your rental options and finding the perfect apartment.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 1-2 months
Here's How:
Tips:
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 1-2 months
Here's How:
- ITP or ITP?
One of the first phrases you learn in Atlanta is "ITP," or "inside the perimeter" and OTP," meaning "outside the perimeter." The Atlanta perimeter is defined by I-285 which forms a ring around the city. Areas outside the perimeter are largely suburban, whereas intown neighborhoods are more urban.
- Consider your commute.
One of the biggest factors in finding your rental should be proximity to your job. Atlanta is notorious for bad traffic and you won't want to be sitting in it twice a day if you don't have to! Also be aware of Atlanta's transportation system, Marta. The rail system has lines running Northeast, Northwest, South, East and West, centered around Five Points station in the downtown business district. There are also bus services that run city wide. You may want to live within a quick walk of the train and avoid traffic altogether! - Target a neighborhood.
Atlanta is very spread out and neighborhood tend to be small pockets of activity strewn throughout the city. Decide what type of neighborhood suits you, whether it's the exciting nightlife of Midtown, the funky vibe of Grant Park or the more affordable and quiet Sandy Springs. - Choose a community style.
Would you rather rent a house or a condo? Do you want a small development or a large apartment complex with resort-like amenities? How about a high-rise with skyline views or a converted loft space? There is a home-sweet-home option for everyone.
- Look online.
Craislist is a great resource for rentals, especially for those who want to rent a condo or house rather than live in a large complex. Major apartment companies like Post and Gables allow you to look at floorplans and search for availability online. - Consult the experts.
If you don't have time to search on your own, companies like ProMove can take care of all the work for you. They can even negotiate better deals like waiving the security deposit or application feeds.
Tips:
- Start early. Many complexes require 60 day notice from residents who are moving out, meaning you can snatch up their vacant unit.
- Check back frequently. If a unit has been sitting empty for a while, you are in a better position to negotiate rent prices.
- Don't get discouraged. You may look at a lot of places before you find the one that's right for you.
- Prioritize your wish list. If the most important factor is a pool, compromise other features to find a perfect pool. Same goes for wood floors or new appliances.
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