Moving to New York City by a Real Estate Agent - Alexa Hinton
How do you choose the right apartment for you in the seemingly endless options?
What’s your Budget?
Make sure you are honest with yourself about exactly how much you are willing to spend! I have lived in apartments both under and over budget and I have found myself much less stressed when I stick to what I’m comfortable paying. You can find a place to live in NYC, no matter your budget; you just have to be willing to compromise at times.
Moving costs you have to pay in advance include:
First Month’s Rent
A Security Deposit typically equal to one month’s rent
Possible Broker Fee
Hiring Movers/Renting a Moving Van/Tip for Friends
Buying Furniture
Moving Boxes/Bags
Does Everything Work?
Check the water pressure and appliances before deciding on a place! Do you need to add curtains or are blinds installed? Is the unit being cleaned before you move in? What is the process for filing a work order? Trust me, this saves a ton of hassle in the future…
Checking in with your possible new Super or management company also helps you understand how quickly they will solve any problems that arise.
Where are you located?
Especially in New York City, being in a convenient location can make or break an apartment experience. My personal rule is I don’t want to be further than a 10 minute walk to a subway. Some people are looking for a slower pace and some are looking to be right in the middle of the action. No matter your preferences, stick to your guns and where you feel safest.
What is most important to you?
For some people, a big kitchen or modern finishes or laundry in your unit are must-haves! It’s 100% up to you what you are and aren’t willing to compromise on so, again, be honest with yourself about what will truly make your living situation most comfortable for you. For me, location and light are always my requirements, but because of this I am willing to compromise on having an elevator or laundry in the unit.
My favorite question as a Real Estate Agent is “Are you more of a light person or a space person?”
Figuring out where you fall on this sliding scale can absolutely help you sort out options that don’t work for you!
How Do I Qualify?
The most important general requirements for NYC apartments are that you can show:
40x the monthly rent in annual income
A “good” credit score (around 600 and up)
Some places are more or less stringent about certain requirements. However, it's good to have at least a few months worth of rent available AT LEASE SIGNING. Most of the move will be prepaid, unfortunately.
Moving Day
A decision must be made in advance; to moving company or to friend with a truck? One is typically easier, but more expensive. The other costs less in money, but more in labor. Either way, be prepared with drinks and cash for a tip. I also recommend either cleaning your new home in advance of move-in day if you received your keys early or packing a “first day” box filled with cleaning supplies, bedding, a cup or 2, a charger for anything important, important documents, and anything that you save to the very end to pack up since you’ll most likely need them first. Try not to stress though on moving day; things are bound to go wrong, but rarely are problems unsolvable.
If you feel uncomfortable or unsure at all, I, of course, recommend finding an agent you like. A good real estate agent will walk you through the whole process and have you prepared and confident to jump on your dream home!
