How to find an apartment

 Length of Lease:
 First, you must decide how long you will live in this space, which will dictate what
 kind of apartment to look for. Most leases require at least one year's commitment,
 so if this is too long for you, consider a sublet or a month-to-month apartment.

 Roommates:
 Next, you must decide whether or not you want roommates. Before deciding, you
 may want to research the cost of rent in the area. Living with a roommate is much
 cheaper than living alone, and it's good to know now what you can afford.

 Amenities vs. Rent Budget:
 The game of choosing an apartment involves balancing what you can afford with
 how nice of an apartment you want. The more amenities there are, the higher the
 rent. Amenities can include a swimming pool, gym, laundry machines, location and size.

 So, before you can begin looking and before you can determine your rent, it's key to
 begin prioritizing your apartment needs and wants. Also, you and your roommate must
 discuss the maximum amount of rent each of you can afford.

 Researching Neighbourhoods:
 Part of the process of finding an apartment is knowing where you want to live.
 Whether you're new to a city or you've grown up there, taking time to research and
 explore different neighbourhoods will help you decide where to look. Even if you think
 you know all about a city, it won't hurt to check out some new areas — you might be
 pleasantly surprised by some neighbourhoods. Hype and reputation can become
 outdated.

 When to Begin Answering Apartment Listings:
 In the movies, the apartment hunting process is condensed into one montage, making
 it look like the apartment was rented in one afternoon. For many, this is an unrealistic
 scenario. How long it takes to find an apartment depends on the rental market in your
 area.

 Preparing for First Month's Rent and Security Deposit:
 Some landlords are very particular about how they want the first month's rent and
 security deposit to be paid. Most of them want the payment to be made with cash or
 a cash equivalent, such as a certified check, cashier's check or money order. You won't
 be able to write a personal check or pay on credit and then add money to your
 account. So, before you begin viewing apartments, make sure you have enough
 withdraw-able money in your bank account to pay the initial fees.

 Answering Listings and Viewing Apartments:
 All the research and prep work is finished! Now you're ready to begin responding to
 apartment listings, checking out referrals, contacting property managers and viewing
 prospective apartment units.

 Once you've found the perfect apartment, you're ready to begin the process of
 signing the lease.
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 Renters Insurance
 What is renters insurance?
 For those who rent, renters insurance covers damage to or loss of your personal
 property. Whether you rent from a house owner, a property manager, or a
 university (as a student living in a dorm), consider purchasing renters insurance.

 Why do I need renters insurance?
 Landlords insure the physical apartment building against damage from occurrences
 such as fire, hail, and vandalism. But their insurance policy does not cover
 your belongings, so don't expect the landlord to owe you payment should
 anything happen. Another reason to get renters insurance is to protect
 yourself against any accidents caused by other tenants.

 Renters insurance can also protect against liability lawsuits or medical bills
 of guests injured in your apartment.

 Some landlords require you to purchase renters insurance. If so, this would be
 stipulated in your lease or lease riders.

 What kinds of loss of or damage to property does
 renters insurance cover?
 There are many types of loss that insurance will cover, plus additional options.
 It depends on the institution. In addition to cost, this can help you choose from
 where you want to get rental insurance. For example, some of the better known
 places do not cover damage from floods, unless you pay an extra charge. If you
 live in an area prone to floods, it makes better sense to search for options
 where flood protection is included.

 How does renters insurance work when you need to
 replace your property?
 There are two kinds of payouts: actual cash value and replacement cost coverage.

 Actual Cash Value. This type of coverage pays an amount equal to the current
 cost to replace your items minus the depreciated value.

 Replacement Cost Coverage. This type of coverage pays you the amount it
 would cost to replace your lost or damaged property. You only get the money if
 you replace the items. There is also usually a limit on how much money you
 receive, and the premiums tend to be higher.

 Deductibles. This is the amount you pay for the lost or damaged goods, before
 the insurance company would begin paying. Typically, the higher the deductible,
 the cheaper your policy will cost.

 What other protection can I get from renters insurance?
 Liability protection. Some renters insurance protects you against a lawsuit if
 someone or their property is damaged on your apartment's premises.

 Medical payments to guests. Some policies cover the medical bills up to a limit
 of anyone, except you or anyone else who lives in the apartment, who is injured in
 your apartment.

 Increase in Living Expenses. If your living expenses increase, because you must
 live elsewhere due to a loss, some policies cover, up to a limit, that increase.

 Lost property while traveling. Some renters insurance policies cover your property
 even when you're traveling, should the airline lose your luggage.

 Premium policy add-ons. If you're willing to pay a higher premium, you can
 buy additional protection. The add-ons differ from company to company, so be sure
 to ask for details. Typical add-ons include:

 I have a roommate? Do we each get our own policy?
 It depends on the policy. Some insurance companies offer one policy that covers
 multiple people. Others require each person to get a separate policy.

 Are there any discounts available?
 Some insurance providers offer discounts to people who already have their auto
 insurance. Check if your auto insurance provider has such discounts and you may
 be able to save some money by purchasing their renters insurance.

 How often do I pay?
 You can make monthly payments or pay all at once.

 Where do I obtain a renters insurance policy?
 Research policies are offered by different insurance companies.  You may also contact
 Hall & Fairweather Insurance here in Saint John, tell them Peter from RentSJ.ca sent you.

 Read more great information about this topic.
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 Organization Suggestions
 When you live in cramped quarters, organizing your home in a smart way is essential.
 Without it, stuff piles up and becomes a source of headaches. No one wants that,
 right? Read on for my top home organization suggestions.

 1. Wall Shelves
 The key to home organization in a small space is using your vertical space. Wall
 shelves allow you to use all of your walls, from the floor to the ceiling, as storage
 space. Keep books, DVDs and CDs on the shelves, along with framed photographs
 and mementos. Wall shelves are also great for displaying any of your collections,
 whether it's sewing machines, dolls or baseballs.

 2. Over-the-Door Storage
 Walls are not the only key real estate for storage. Doors are just as useful. And
 there's a whole range of items, from shoe racks to shelving, that you can buy and
 hook over your door.

 3. Storage Trunks
 A chest is perfect for storing large items that are rarely used, and because of its
 size, it's also great for placing items on top of it. It can be used as a coffee table,
 placed at the foot of your bed and used as a bench or against the wall with an
 attractive cloth over it and books, vases of flowers or plants on top of it.

 4. Storage Ottomans
 The key to home organization in small spaces is to have multi-functional furniture.
 And it's very easy to find ottomans with more than one use. Ottomans can be used
 to prop your feet up or act as seating during parties. Many attractive ones have lids
 that come off to reveal a hollow inside for storing stuff. Since the storage space is
 easy to access, keep items that you regularly use, such as the TV programming guide,
 books that you're reading or snack food.

 5. Under-the-bed Storage
 Clear plastic storage bins that are designed specifically for under your bed are
 essential for small spaces. They're perfect for storing items that you want out of
 sight and don't use regularly, such as extra bedding, seasonal clothing, and hardware
 tools.

 6. Stackable Plastic Drawers
 Look for storage that is customizable, such as stackable plastic drawers. That way,
 if you only have space for two drawers, you won't have to struggle with an ensemble
 that is too big. Plastic drawers are inexpensive and great for organizing the closet
 space beneath your hanging clothing. In them, you can store folded clothing, athletic
 equipment, iron, and laundry supplies.

 7. Hooks
 Like wall shelves, hooks turn empty walls into storage receptacles. They allow you
 to keep regularly used items accessible. Use them to keep coats, scarves, umbrellas
 and bags by the entrance way. Try hanging a container from one and store your cell
 phone, keys and ID pass.

 8. Shoe Organizer
 Shoes have a way of separating from their mate and piling up on each other into a
 giant mess. They become eyesores and take up valuable real estate in the closet.
 The best way to keep them is in a shoe organizer designed to hang over the door.
 Not much else can hang there, and it will clear up the floor of your closet for other
 items.

 9. Bookshelf That Doubles as a Room Divider
 Freestanding bookshelves are a perfect piece of furniture for small spaces—especially
 studios. Place one in the middle of the room to divide up your sleeping space from
 your home office from your living room. Fill the shelves with books, vases, sculptures
 or other decorative objects.

 10. TV Stand with Shelves or Cabinets
 In the modern world, pretty much everyone owns a TV. Like the bed, it's an essential
 part of one's home. Since it will take up your limited space, use this opportunity to buy
 a TV stand that has shelves not just for your VCR or DVD player but storage to hold
 DVDs, book, magazines or any other miscellany.

 11. Bed Frame With Built-in Drawers
 If you're short on closet space and have little room for a chest of drawers, one
 reader suggested a bed frame with drawers that are underneath the mattress.
 They're easier to access than under-bed storage. But make sure to find one which
 has drawers that slide out easily.
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