Money and Moving into your Apartment Home

Moving into a new apartment can present several financial challenges and an even larger commitment. But understanding your individual financial position, the more likely you will be able to have a smooth move without to much difficulty.

Your Personal Credit

The most important matter regarding your ability to rent your apartment home is your credit report.  Almost every single apartment community will want to pull your credit report before they allow you to sign a lease.  And they will charge you an application fee in order to see your report.  It usually ranges in the neighborhood of $50 for one person. They are looking for proof that you pay your debts. If you have any judgments or broken leases with a previous apartment community you will need to clear it up before they allow you to sign a lease.

There are some great resources online to check your credit report. Start by going to annualcreditreport.com and you can actually get a free copy for yourself.  There are 3 different credit bureaus that you can choose from. These will include (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian) the following and you can get one free report per year from each of them. Remember what shows up on one may not show up on the others. If you want additional copies you can purchase them.

Although your credit score many not matter, you should know that the 3 credit bureaus calculate their own individual scores. Remember that the higher score the better. There are many companies that will offer to clean up your credit. Sometimes its worth it, but other times it isn’t. So be sure and do your research first.

Deposits and Other Fees

When you move in your apartment home, you will be required to put down a deposit as well. Remember that many apartments will also require that you pay utilities and other fees may not be included.  Most times you should be able to get your security deposit back in full assuming you didn’t tear the place apart.