How to rent your first apartment

1. 01Compute the true budgetRent plus utilities, internet, renters insurance, parking, and commuting. A common ceiling is ~30% of take-home pay on rent.
2. 02Save the move-in stackFirst month, security deposit, sometimes last month, application fees, and moving costs. Budget for two to three months' rent up front.
3. 03Prepare your application packetID, proof of income (pay stubs or offer letter), references, and a co-signer if your income or credit is thin.
4. 04Inspect properlyRun the water and check pressure, test every outlet and lock, look under sinks for leaks, check phone signal, and visit the street at night.
5. 05Read the lease before signingTerm length, rent increase and renewal terms, break-lease penalty, guest and pet rules, who handles repairs, and how the deposit is returned.
6. 06Document move-in conditionPhotograph and video every room, every existing scratch and stain, timestamped, and email a copy to the landlord. This is how deposits get returned.
7. 07Set up the essentialsUtilities in your name, renters insurance (cheap, protects everything you own), address change, and a repair-request channel in writing.

General educational information, not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Rules vary by country and change over time — verify with a qualified professional before acting.