Location’s important, so get to know your neighborhood

by Tom Simplot

Aug 30, 2015

New buildings, exclusive amenities, resort-style pools — today’s apartment hunting can be exciting and overwhelming. The location of your new apartment should be as important to you as the home itself. Many of us are renting apartments in more urbanized neighborhoods and those that are in a growth phase. Getting to know the neighborhood, as well as the apartment community should be part of your checklist.

Take a walk around the neighborhood at night. Are the streets well-lit for you? Is the neighborhood as quiet or active as you want it to be?

Where are your closest services? Try to navigate to the closest pharmacy, grocery store and gas station to be sure they are within the right distance for your lifestyle.

Visit the local restaurants and entertainment venues. These amenities, within walking or biking distance, can make a new apartment home or rental especially attractive.

Check out the local parks, especially if you have kids or animals. Having quick access to trails, parks or community centers can make all the difference for parents or those with pets. Development along light rail and in urbanizing areas of the Valley offers exciting new lifestyle options. Before you sign a lease, it’s worth taking the neighborhood for a spin for a couple of evenings and maybe a morning.