QUEZON City, Philippines (Eagle News Service, June 30) – So, you’re a grown-up now and you want to live independently. First things first, you have to find your own place.
Apartment hunting can be hard, but nothing shouts independence like having your own place. Here are some factors that you should consider when looking for an apartment.
Of course, the first thing that you should consider is the rental price. Is the rent just for the apartment or does it include utilities like water and electricity? Also remember that landlords always require that you give a one month deposit, so you should factor this in your budget.
If the price is steep, you may consider looking for a roommate or two so that you can share the expenses. Of course, it is advisable to choose roommates who you know very well to avoid problems. Remember, you are an adult now so if you do run into problems with your roommates its better to talk and discuss the issues with them.
Check out the neighborhood. Is it safe even if you go home in the middle of the night? Are the neighbors always singing karaoke at night? Remember, finding a cheap apartment is good, but saving money should not come at the cost of your personal safety or even your personal peace and quiet.
Usually an apartment will not be as big as your family home so you have to bring only necessities and essentials. This concern is more important if you have a roommate to avoid space problems. To ensure that you only bring the essentials, make a list. Make the following basic headings for your list: “Basic Furniture”, “Bedroom”, “Bathroom”, “Kitchen”, “Laundry”, “Cleaning, “Closet & Storage” and “Personal”.
Good luck with your apartment-hunting!
(ENS, written by Jay Paul Carlos, with additional research of Lovely Ann Cruz)
