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An FAQ Guide to Timing a Move to Your Next Apartment

In trying to find an apartment, timing can be a big factor and the focus of some of the most frequently asked questions during the apartment search process. In this guide, find several common questions that can help you determine when the best time is for you to move to a new apartment.

FAQs about Timing a Move to a New Apartment

Some considerations like the school year, the end of an existing lease or starting a job in another city may help determine the best time, if not the necessary time, to move to a new apartment. As explained at Zillow, the month or season of the year may also play a role in your moving considerations, whether you are looking for the best chance of a lower rent or the greatest selection of apartments. Below, find a list of questions that we’ve often received at Live NAProperties that you too may want to ask or consider in deciding the best time for a potential move.

1. Are there any apartments currently available?

Apartment availability can sometimes change quickly. Consequently, you’ll need to account for both when the best time is for you to move and the residences available at your chosen location that align with this timeframe. In the case of greater flexibility in finding a new apartment, you may want to ask about both immediate availability and other options that may become available in the next month or so. To learn about the most current options that fit your desired move-in date and other preferences, consider asking a leasing agent directly instead of depending on other sources of information. 

Additionally, if you have a specific type of apartment, floor plan or a particular unit in mind, you’ll want to make sure to clarify this interest when inquiring about availability. For example, furnished apartments can sometimes be a little harder to find than unfurnished apartments. Also, if both furnished and unfurnished apartments are options as they are at Sycamore Place Lofts, it’s important to ask about pricing and lease-terms for each one, as well as unit availability and the specifics of what a furnished apartment entails.

2. Are there any current move-in specials?

During your apartment search, you may encounter limited-time leasing specials based on current availability. In some instances, any current deals may be directly posted on a property’s website. On the other hand, you may need to ask a property manager directly about any active promotions or discounts on specific floor plans in corresponding with that individual or during an apartment tour. Apartment List offers an overview about the types of move-in specials that you may encounter, when the best time to move is relative to finding these deals, and what to beware of when assessing these opportunities.

3. Are short-term lease options available?

A 12-month lease is perhaps the most common, but you may also see other lease lengths available or want to ask about short-term lease options depending on your circumstances. For example, Centennial Station (located near the Hyde Park and Oakley neighborhoods of Cincinnati) typically offers 12-month lease terms. However, shorter options may be available depending on current availability and timing. So, even if a different lease length may be standard for a particular location, a leasing team may be open to discussing the more flexible lease options that you may require.

4. What is the timeline for application and approval?

In addition to the time it takes to narrow your list of potential apartments and complete your in-person or online application once you’ve done so, you’ll also want to account for approval time which can vary by property owner. For example, at Encore in Downtown Cincinnati, approvals for apartments are typically processed within 1–3 business days once completed applications have been submitted, depending on screening requirements.

5. How soon can I move in after applying?

Another important detail to consider is when you can actually move into the apartment that you’ve chosen. At Vicinity at Memorial Pointe in Southgate, KY, residents may be able to move in within 30 to 60 days, but the final date for these apartments and many others may depend on apartment availability and application approval. Again, as you figure out when is your best time to move into a new apartment, sharing these details with the leasing teams at your potential residential locations better enables them to help you find a home that suits your wants and needs, including your moving timeline.

Looking for an apartment in or near Cincinnati, OH? If you need help determining the best time to move in or which floor plan or apartment location might work best for you, our leasing team is here to help. Contact us today for assistance!