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Moving to Cincinnati: What First-Time Renters Need to Know

From budgeting to choosing the right location to finding pet-friendly apartments, renters have a lot to think about as they look for a new home. If you are in the process of moving, you may be curious about tips on finding an apartment to rent, especially if you are doing so for the first time. Below, find a list of 5 of the most important things to consider in moving to Cincinnati – many of which also apply to renting in general.

5 Tips to Consider when Moving to Cincinnati

The experience of moving to a new place is often different for each individual. However, a thoughtful approach to finding your new home can help make the transition as smooth and easy as possible. Below, you’ll find general recommendations for renters, as well as some specific suggestions related to moving to Cincinnati.

1. Think carefully and thoroughly about your budget.

As you start searching for apartments, the monthly rent may be at the forefront of your mind and one of the first criteria used to narrow your list of potential rentals. However, in moving to a downtown Cincinnati apartment or one in another nearby area like Fort Thomas, KY, you may need to factor in other ongoing expenses in addition to the monthly rent, such as utility bills, renter’s insurance or parking fees. Also, a security deposit and the first and last month’s rent are often required even before you can move in, not to mention any fees associated with applying for a specific apartment. Then, there are the costs related to the moving process itself. The distance between your current residence and your new rental and how you plan to move, not to mention the kind and amount of items you’ll be taking with you, are some of the important moving cost considerations, as further explained at NerdWallet.

2. Establish your priorities.

For first-time renters in particular, asking yourself these questions and others like them can help you generate your priorities when moving to Cincinnati. Having a list of what’s both essential and desirable in hand helps refine your search for an apartment. This collection of necessities and wishes can also be useful in formulating or otherwise thinking about your budget and lifestyle.

3. Consider location.

In moving to Cincinnati, first-time renters often benefit from doing some research into the city’s dozens of different neighborhoods to see which one might be best for them. Some first-time renters may prefer to choose a neighborhood that allows them to bike or walk to work, restaurants, shops and the city’s many things to do. Others may be happier to find an apartment near Cincinnati or in a neighborhood that’s further away from the downtown area like Hyde Park, as these locations may offer a more relaxed feel or even more of their desired outdoor amenities.

4. Clarify lease specifics.

You’re likely going into your search with a particular lease length in mind, as well an idea of your feasible monthly rent. However, you’ll also want to inquire about other lease specifics, prior to signing any paperwork. For example, you may want to ask about any policies and/or fees related to parking, guests and pets. Utilities or services included in your rent or the protocols around maintenance requests or breaking a lease are some other details that may be of interest. It may also be helpful to familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in the City of Cincinnati, if you are moving there.

5. Visit in person.

Studying floor plans, taking virtual tours, and exploring property websites and photo galleries provide some idea of what to expect in moving to that Cincinnati apartment. However, if possible, an in-person visit is the best way to ensure that you are renting the right apartment for your needs. As highlighted at Zillow, rental scams are an unfortunate reality. Visiting a rental property yourself or having a trusted individual do so in your place is one way to help protect yourself against such experiences and to ensure that the reality of your new rental aligns with your vision of it.

Moving to Cincinnati or any other city often requires time, thorough research and much consideration, especially if you are looking to rent an apartment for the first time. The leasing experts at Live NAProperties are here to help you through this process. For information about one of our locations in the Cincinnati area, questions about applying for an apartment and more, our team members are available to assist you. Contact us today!