Leaving your parents’ house and living on your own for the first time is exciting and daunting. But before you go looking for that first apartment, there are some things you should take into consideration. Here are some ways to handle your first apartment hunt on your own, but if you aren’t excited about living alone then you should think about checking out coliving san francisco.

Check Your Credit
Your credit score is going to play a big role in whether someone will rent an apartment to you, so make sure to check your credit report and your score before going apartment hunting. If your FICO credit score is lower than the mid- to high 600s, then you could have a tough time. If your score is low, you may want to wait a few months to try to improve it before searching for a new place.

Establish your Budget
One of the biggest challenges of moving out on your own for the first time is figuring out how much everything is going to cost. When you rent an apartment for the first time, you have to account not only for your monthly rent but also for things like utility payments as well as other living expenses such as food and cleaning supplies. You also have to consider any startup expenses you may have such as new furniture, curtains, bedding, and other items.

Consider Amenities
You probably aren’t looking for a luxury apartment your first time out, but finding an apartment that has some amenities might actually save you money in the long run. For example, it might be worth it to spend a little more on monthly rent for an apartment that comes with a dedicated parking space, a gym, and an in-unit washer and dryer. Those all may be things that you would pay for otherwise, so having them included as part of your rent may actually be a good deal.

Find the Right Neighborhood
Whether you are going to school or starting your first job, the location of your first apartment can be crucial to your housing success. If you don’t have a car, then you will want an apartment that is close to public transportation. You might also want something that is within walking distance of school or work. Location of your first apartment can be very important for your overall quality of life, so don’t discount it. Places like Corporate Habitat can help find places in big cities that are close to good amenities you need.

When searching for your first apartment, it is very important to keep these and other factors in mind. You don’t want to just go out and find the cheapest place you can find, nor do you want to blow your budget to get amenities that aren’t important.