I left my father's house from the age of 17. I live with an old boyfriend, my best friend, a new boyfriend, and my sister. Over the years, I have no place to really call me my own, I decided I was tired of it, I want to get my first apartment. When I was sitting in my lovely two-bedroom apartment on the third floor, I thought about how depressed and stressed it was. I have no guidance and I don't know where to start. This is why I wrote this article. Adults make assumptions about what young people should know... things that young people have never taught or experienced. I hope to explain in detail how you can accomplish the seemingly impossible feat and act alone. I won't give you any unnecessary information, and I won't go to class. I just want to let you know everything I know now to help you prepare for the upcoming event.

How to get your first apartment

Price is the primary consideration when looking for an apartment, but price and location are interrelated.

How old do you need to rent an apartment?

The law only allows adults to sign a lease contract. Since most states set the age of majority to 18, this means that you can't rent out before you reach adulthood, and if you are under 18, the landlord can legally refuse to rent it to you.

I am 17 years old: Does that mean that I can't rent?

There are exceptions.

For example, you might find a good landlord who is willing to take risks, even if they will hurt them in the long run (because if you can't afford the money, if you are not an adult, they have no legal recourse).

Or, if you are legally liberated by the court, married, or served in the military, these conditions may be in your favor. Also, if you can have an adult sign up for you and promise that if you can't pay the rent, it can also allow a young tenant to continue.

How much do you need to earn to live alone?

Landlords have strict income requirements to protect themselves from rogue renters (and protect tenants from being beyond their ability). Most apartment buildings require you to pay 3 to 3.5 times the rent and may even consider approval. This is because they know that your other living expenses (food, transportation, utilities, health, etc.) will cost so much, so if you don't meet the minimum income requirements, you can't afford the rent.

Which apartments can I afford?

If there is no elevator, the upper level apartment will be cheaper because most people don't want to put the food on a flight of stairs. Apartments close to shops and other amenities are much more expensive than apartments a little further from the main street.

In general, if you smoke or raise a pet, the landlord will charge more because it will involve more cleaning work. Therefore, the price of a smoke-free or pet-free apartment may be lower. Consider the cost of security. I know that a really cheap apartment seems to be a perfect place for a penniless young man, but stealing is really expensive and should consider the cost of replacing stolen items. If you can afford a low-cost apartment, I suggest you either find a roommate and a better place, or take extra security for yourself and your car. Also, invest in a deadlock!

Where should I find an apartment?

Please rent your friends to pay attention to the vacancy in their house. Craigslist is always a great resource, but keep in mind that some very basic people use Craigslist, so being careful is always a good idea. When you go to the Craigslist list, bring a friend, or at least let your lover know where you are.