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Safety Tips For Apartment Hunting
When you’re apartment hunting, safety should be your number one priority. Here are some tips to help keep you safe during your search.
Only go to open houses with someone else.
Never visit an open house alone, even if you will only be there for a few minutes. Always meet up with the real estate agent beforehand so they can show you around. If something happens to you during your visit, there may not be anyone around to help you.
Visit the apartment at different times of the day.
If you visit an apartment during daylight hours, try to visit it in the evening or late afternoon. You may not always have a choice, but if you do, then find out what time the building has its tenants lock up for the night and then try to visit when that happens. If you do come back at night, take a friend.
Be aware of your surroundings.
If something feels off to you, then it probably is. If the apartment seems too good to be true, then maybe it is. Don’t ignore your gut feeling because if you do and something happens later, you will never forgive yourself. You may want to find a different building or a different apartment in that building.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If there is something about this place you don’t understand, then, by all means, ask questions about it! If an agent seems evasive or dodgy when answering your question, trust your gut and find another place to visit. If you feel uncomfortable, leave immediately and contact the police if necessary.
This is an issue for you if you’re a woman, but men should always check for hidden cameras in the bedroom and bathroom, depending on where the unit is located. If the unit has both, then check for them even more thoroughly.
Investigate the neighborhood
If you’re not sure about moving into a particular area, do some research on it first. Find out if any sex offenders are living in the area or if there have been any shootings or other crimes committed in the area recently.
Be safe
Last but not least, you will always be safest if you stay with a friend or family member rather than an acquaintance or stranger. Not only is it safer with them, but they can also help protect your interests by being there during any conflicts about the apartment itself.
Summary
The tips we have provided will help you stay safe during your search. Remember to only visit open houses with someone else, visit at different times of day, and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or leave immediately if something feels off. Finally, always do your research before moving into a new area. It is essential to remember that your safety should be your number one priority when apartment hunting.