There are many reasons for moving to a new city like Seattle. Imagine, getting a call from HR and finding out that you just got that job you were dreaming of. It is in Seattle and you have to move there soon. So, naturally, you start looking for an apartment right away. Seattle is an amazing city. People move there for jobs and the opportunity to get to know the city all the time. That is why most apartments get rented out really fast, in a matter of days in fact. So, you will have to be lucky. Another thing about renting in Seattle is that there is no rent control here. It is forbidden by the law, but there are some things that the guide to finding affordable housing in Seattle can help you with.
Why is renting in Seattle so difficult for newcomers?
As you already know, Seattle is an amazing city, so the fact that you want to move here is not at all surprising. But that is something that many people want as well. Everyone wants to live in a vibrant city like Seattle. And that is one of the main reasons why apartments are rented so quickly. Also, the fact that there is no rent control is making things even more difficult, so one-bedroom apartment rent out for more than $1,500.
How can the guide to finding affordable housing in Seattle help you?
When it comes to trying to find a home within your budget, the guide to finding affordable housing in Seattle is your best friend. So, in order to get a cheaper apartment, you should consider these items:
- Your budget
- Finding help
- The timing of your move
- Finding a roommate
- Know your rights
- Submit an application
- Ask for a move-in checklist
The budget is key
You have to sit down and calculate your expenses. In Seattle, just like anywhere else, there is a huge difference in the rent if you are getting a micro-studio and if you are looking for a three-bedroom apartment. That is exactly why you have to know what you can afford. If you want to redesign and adjust your Seattle home to your needs and wishes, you will need a bigger budget as well. You should know what your limits are. So include rent, utilities, gas, food, and everything else you will need money for and start from there.
You must be aware of the budget or you might get yourself in an unpleasant situation (Alt text: a piggy bank)
Get help in more ways than one
Both Washington state and Seattle officials are aware of the housing problem. That is why, if you have everything that you need, you can apply for housing help. Low-income families can get apartments that fit their budget and needs. So, check it out and see if you qualify for this kind of help.
Another way that you can get help during your move is to hire a moving agency. It will save you a lot of time and energy, and most importantly, money. They will know all the ins and outs regarding your move, so if you want your Washington relocation done properly, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
What time is the best?
As you probably know already, there are times of the year that are better for finding a place to rent. In Seattle, spring and summer are the times when most people look for new homes so many apartments are open for renting. Renting in spring and summer is great since you will have enough time to prepare your home for the cooler months. You will be stress-free when the winter comes. However, it’s not just about the timing. If you are looking for apartments all over Seattle, it will be harder to find something that suits you. Find the neighborhoods you like and look out for new apartments for rent there. Also, the railing system in Seattle is expanding so there are areas that are cheaper because there are no trains there yet. If you rent now, and the rails are installed later, you will get a great apartment for less.
Is a roommate an option?
Ask yourself- could you live with a roommate? You will find the apartment easier this way since you will have many more options. Maybe ask a friend or a colleague if they are interested. It will probably be cheaper this way. If you find someone who is willing to do it, look for an apartment with them. You can even explore the new neighborhoods and look for the “for rent” signs. These apartments might not be online yet so you are more likely to get them.
Getting a roommate might be your best solution (Alt text: A girl sitting on the bed and using the computer)
The law is still on your side
Even with the no rent control policy, the law is looking after you. For example, if your landlord is about to increase your rent, he must give you a 60-day notice instead of 30 days. You are allowed to be late with paying rent for 14 days before your landlord can file for eviction, instead of 3. These are just some changes when it comes to the law and you will be happy to know there are more. So further research on this topic might be one of the most important things for you to do when it comes to finding affordable housing in Seattle.
Be ready
As soon as you see an apartment that is the right for you, apply. Right away. Someone else is going to take it if you think about it for too long. Also, once you apply, leave the contact information for your employer, previous landlord, and other people that the new landlord might want to check with. But, make sure you notify those people that they might be getting a call about you from the potential landlord.
Move-in checklist
Once you get the apartment you like, make sure your new landlord gives you the move-in checklist. It really is important and you should not even get an apartment without it. It’s a checklist of all the things in the apartment that belong to the landlord and the condition they are in. Landlords know how important staging is for renting and selling homes, so some of them will get low-quality items that can get damaged. With this checklist, you can’t be blamed for the damage you didn’t cause.
Make sure your landlord gives you a copy of your move-in checklist so you can prove that you did not damage any of the items in the apartment (Alt text: A person writing in a notebook)
You will get a great apartment for sure, especially if you make sure to follow our guide to finding affordable housing in Seattle. Seattle might be a tough nut to crack but you will make it. You just need to know a few tricks and that is it! Your dream home is right there!
Author’s bio
Linda Coleman has worked in the real estate business for many years, and now she works with companies like verifiedmovers.com and tries to help people find their dream home. When she is not working, she enjoys painting and taking long walks.
Feel free to share this post:
