Looking For An Apartment To Fit A Frugal Lifestyle? Incorporate These Search Tips

Whether you are living frugally by choice or by need, the cost of renting an apartment is sure to take a big bite from your budget each month. Fortunately, there are some tips you can use to help ensure that the apartment you decide to rent will be cost-effective for your situation. 

Choose an apartment that eliminates the need for a car

Next to the cost of housing, the costs for owning and maintaining a car is probably the next most expensive line in your budget. By opting to rent an apartment that allows you to easily use public transportation, a bicycle, or your feet to get to wherever you need to go, you will be able to eliminate the expense of keeping a car. 

In fact, you may even be able to afford a really nice apartment when you no longer have to pay for car payments, insurance, gas, and repairs. You also will not have to pay for expensive city parking fees and the extra exercise you get living your life without a car might even make it possible to eliminate that expensive gym membership. 

Choose an apartment that benefits from neighboring units

An apartment on the corner of the building may have better views, but it may also have higher heating and cooling bills. Instead, consider choosing one with a location on a middle floor where there are adjoining units on either side so that your unit will benefit from the passive insulation the other units provide. 

Choose an apartment that offers a full kitchen

Another good way to live frugally in an apartment is to be diligent about cooking your own meals instead of dining out or ordering in. This will be easier to do if the apartment you choose has a full kitchen where you can envision yourself preparing meals for yourself and guests. 

Choose an apartment with hookups for a washer and dryer

Apartment dwellers who must use coin-operated appliances quickly discover that doing laundry is expensive, even for one or two people. A better option is to choose an apartment that is already outfitted with hookups for a washer and dryer. To save even more money, look for an inexpensive pre-owned washer and dryer instead of paying more for new appliances. 

To get more helpful advice in finding an apartment that will fit well with even the most frugal budget, take time to visit with a real estate agent in your area who specializes in rental apartments and houses. 


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