5 things to look for in your first apartment

You've been saving up for a deposit and your first furniture and the time has come to start looking for your first apartment or townhouse! This is an extremely exciting time in your life and the CSi Property Group is here to help, providing a list of five things you need to look for: affordability, proximity to work, the amount of space you'll need, access to pools and other fun amenities and the furniture that you'll need.  

Find a home that you can comfortably afford

The rule of thumb is that your rent should be no more than a third of your income - and ideally it should be no more than a quarter. Your rent is not the only expense that you'll have, and it's also important that you're saving money towards your future. If your budget is a little tight, a great option is to look for a place to live in a slightly different area. You might be surprised at how affordable certain areas of South Africa's commercial capital can be. You can also consider renting a place with a friend - but be sure to think through the potential pitfalls of that arrangement.

Find a place from which it's easy to get to the office

If you're working from the office - even if it's only one or two days a week - you want a place that's relatively close by. If you're thinking of changing jobs in the near future, you should think in more general terms about where your next position is likely to take you. A home with good access to highways and main roads gives you plenty of options.

Find a home where you'll have enough space

For some young people moving out of their parents' home for the first time, a bachelor flat could be an ideal solution. However, if you're working from home, you may soon find that your space feels like it's closing in on you. A two-bedroom apartment is typically perfect if you're working from home. On a similar note, if you're bringing a pet with you, you'll need to make sure that your new home allows pets. Even if your prospective home is in a development that allows pets, your landlord may not want pets on his or her property.

Find a home that has the amenities you want

Your home isn't just your home - it's the place where you'll spend time over weekends, entertain your friends and relax after work. Many of Gauteng's complexes and estates offer leisure facilities and amenities where you can enjoy life to the fullest. From swimming pools, squash courts and tennis courts to clubhouses and restaurants, you can find plenty of amenities that will transform your home into a way of life.

Find a home that's safe

Security is a priority at almost all sectional titles and estates, and this is one of the factors that make them great homes. Be wary of renting a granny flat in someone's garden that is not well secured. Rather look for an affordable home in a complex that comes with features like electric gates and solid burglar guards. If you're looking at an estate or complex, you may even find that your home offers 24-hour security and access control.

Moving out on your own for the first time is one of the most exciting times of your life! Make it a great experience by trusting the team from the CSi Property Group to help you find the right rental property in Gauteng. Contact us today and let us help you get started on the road to independence.