When most people consider owning an apartment, they normally don’t think of any questions to ask until after or sometimes never. However, it is always important to ask questions and get a better idea of the area, amenities and more. There are questions you should ask yourself, and those that you should ask of the manager or owner.
Questions to Ask Yourself
The first question is where do you want to live? If you are trying to find something in the San Francisco Bay Area, then you should focus your attention there and look for things that you can afford, which brings you to your next question. You need to have a budget worked out before searching out apartments so that you have an idea in mind and can quickly ignore those apartments you honestly cannot afford.
Other questions can include bringing pets, do you need a furnished or unfurnished apartment and the types of amenities you truly desire.
Questions to Ask the Owner/Manager
Once you have an idea and start looking at apartments to own in San Francisco, you will want to take a tour of each place and speak with the manager or owner of the property. Whether you speak with them over the phone or while at the property, you should ask questions about amenities, parking, financing, fees, outdoor space, pets, and storage, among others. These questions will help you make an informed decision and will show the owner/manager that you are a serious buyer.
When considering amenities, make sure you get what you want, which can include pools, spas, fitness centers, private grilling areas, dog runs, club rooms, lounges, yoga studios, dry saunas, Wi-Fi, parking and security needs.
Some apartments in the Bay Area offer a specific storage area that anyone can use while others will offer a specific storage area off each balcony or patio so that each person has their own private storage area on their property. This can be helpful so that you don’t have to fetch someone to let you into your storage bin.
Those that love animals will want to ensure they find apartments that allow pets. Whether you have one now or want to get one in the future, a no-pets policy can be problematic. Of course, most apartments don’t complain about fish and very small, contained animals, but dogs or cats can be a problem in some apartments, so make sure to ask.
