Dallas apartments can be expensive. But getting a great deal can make your Dallas apartment easier on the budget. This article provides tips on getting the best deal possible when leasing a Dallas apartment.

What Do You Want

1. A great deal for a Dallas apartment varies from person to person.

Do you want the lowest possible price for a luxurious two-bedroom, 1200 square foot Dallas apartment with granite countertops, hardwood floors and an enclosed garage? Do you want the very lowest price for an efficiency apartment in far northwest Dallas? Or do you want the very lowest available move-in cost for a two-bedroom bills paid apartment in Oak Cliff?

2. Organize Your Thoughts

Precisely define the features and factors important to you in a Dallas apartment. Think about factors such has location, rental rate, application fee, deposit, unit type, unit size, unit amenities, and property amenities.

There is an amazing variety of Dallas apartments available. Organize your thoughts in writing before starting to search with a high-quality online Dallas apartment search service.

3. Apartment Online Search Service

Select a Dallas apartment online search service which provides access to information on all Dallas area apartments. Some apartment search services only provide information on 10 to 15% of the available apartments. The services only provide information on properties which pay to advertise or which pay a locator fee. Some will offer discounts such as cash back or free moving, so these offers can make finding a new place much easier on the pocketbook.

However, it is unrealistic to get the best possible deal when you are only looking at one in six or one in 10 apartments which are available for lease.

4. Select Five to Twenty Dallas Apartments

Use the online apartment search service to identify perhaps five to 20 Dallas apartment complexes.

5. Start initially by focusing on geographic location.

Then use your other search criteria in descending importance to select target properties. In other words, use the second-most criteria (after location) next to further limit the options. Then use the third most important criteria.

6. Let's Make a Deal

Use your notes (regarding what is important for a Dallas apartment) to develop a list of questions. Call and interview the on-site leasing staff at each property. Focus on getting your questions answered. Listen both to what is said and how it is said.

Also ask for details on pricing. This includes information regarding application fee, deposit, first months rent and monthly rent. Ask if they have a "look and lease" special. (This is a special offer when you sign a lease shortly after initially visiting the property.)

7. Visit the Apartments

Select two or three properties after completing your phone calls. Before going to the office, drive around the perimeter and through the property to see if it means your minimum standards. (Don’t waste time visiting the office if you would not live at the property.) Visit the staff at each of the properties. Ask to see that the model and the unit you would be occupying.

Ask about their maintenance policy. Do they have any apartment maintenance work orders which have been outstanding for more than one week. Do they have a courtesy patrol? Ask detailed questions about the other factors which are important to you. If you are interested in a particular amenity, confirm that it is working and ask to see it (if appropriate). Before leaving, ask for the best pricing they have available for the unit you are considering. Can they waive the application fee? Can they reduce the first months rent? Can they reduce the monthly rent? What about a look and lease special?

8. Make a Decision

Choose an apartment which is best for you considering your criteria. Call once again and ask for their best deal. If you lease today, what is the best deal they can offer?

9. The Lease

Read and negotiate a lease. The lease is a legal document. You should read it. It describes what you must do to have your deposit returned. Ask questions if the lease is not clear. Remember, the lease was written by an attorney for the benefit of the apartment owner. Don't be embarrassed to ask questions.

Enjoy!