Guide To Apartment Hunting When Planning To Move

Guide To Apartment Hunting When Planning To Move

Aug 08, 2024

Apartment hunting in Brisbane’s hotspots can be overwhelming for various reasons. The complexity level accelerates when relocating for the first time. From setting an estimated budget to choosing the most suitable location, understanding leases, and opting for insurance, you have to manage everything within a particular timeframe.

This requires more planning, real estate market research, logistical understanding, and more. Since it is a crucial decision, take your time and focus on your priorities during the apartment hunting process. Luckily, there are plenty of tools and strategies to streamline the journey and help you make a well-informed decision.

Here is a complete guide to apartment hunting when planning to move house. It is good to know your specific needs and choose the most desired property in your preferred location.

Let’s Get Started!

Know Your Specific Preferences & Prioritise

The first step is to define your specific needs when searching for an apartment. Make sure you consider the following factors:

Budget: Decide how much you can afford to spend on rent each month. This includes utilities and cost of living.

Location: Choose an area that is convenient for school, work, and other activities. Consider key amenities such as public transportation connectivity, a local market, and healthcare facilities.

Apartment size: This completely depends on your specific needs. You can choose between a studio apartment, a 2-bedroom, a 4-bedroom, or a luxurious living space, according to your budget. You can create a floor plan accordingly and move house safely.

Key Facilities: Prepare a list of key amenities that you can’t compromise on. This list should include parking, safety, a pet-friendly policy, gym facilities, etc.

Set an Estimated Budget

woman checking something on a tablet and sitting on the floor

This is one of the most pivotal steps when searching for a new residence, especially in the capital of Queensland. It is imperative to figure out how much you can afford to spend on rent each month. Thus, you should create a budget and stick to it.

According to financial experts, it is good to spend a share of 30-40 per cent of your income on rent. More than that can take a toll on your pocket.

This ensures you have enough funds for other expenses, such as Brisbane Removalists fees, security deposits, food, getting around and other necessities.

Research Potential Suburbs in Brisbane

Determining the location during an apartment hunting process often depends on different factors. If you are relocating for a job, research areas close to your office or CBD.

Here is a list of inner suburbs:

  • Brisbane CBD: It is a central suburb located in the heart of the city. It is a hub of businesses, retail shops, restaurants, and cafes. The median rent for an apartment or unit in Brisbane CBD is $800 per week.
  • Kangaroo Point: Located 3.2 km Southeast of the city’s CBD, Kangaroo Point is a beautiful and vibrant suburb known for its luxury apartments and skyscrapers. The average rent is $676 per week.
  • Fortitude Valley: The inner suburb of Brisbane is best for working professionals and families with kids. The median rent for an apartment is $600 per week.

Best Outer Suburbs For Home Hunting:

If you want to live in a laidback and quiet environment, choose the outer suburbs or towns. The rental prices are comparatively low, and they have all the key amenities.

  • Salisbury: Located 12.4 km from the Brisbane GPO, this suburb is a peaceful residential area offering great apartment options. The median rent is $520 per week, which is more affordable than in the inner suburbs.
  • Chermside: It is the best option for homebuyers and renters. The average rent of unit is $542 per week. The suburb has plenty of schools, healthcare facilities and lush parks.
  • Stafford Heights: It is Brisbane’s most affordable rental suburbs, ideal for families, retirees and young couples. The median rent price is $530 per week.

Read on the guide to explore the cheapest suburbs of Brisbane to make the most of your decisions.

Begin Your Search for an Ideal Apartment

Once you have shortlisted the most suitable neighbourhood, it is time to start searching for an ideal place where you want to relocate with your family. If you cannot visit the apartment in person, use reliable online resources and search for the best options that meet your needs.

Many apartment complexes have official websites to see the unit’s layout plans and other information. You can also find listings on local real estate websites. Hiring a local real estate agent can help you choose the best property within your budget. They may also arrange a virtual walkthrough before making the final decision.

Thoroughly Inspect the Apartment

Make a list of 4-5 apartments in preferred locations and shortlist the best ones per your preferences. Before signing the lease, thoroughly inspect the property, including walls, roofs, decks, floors, plumbing and appliances for issues. Ensure proper functioning of HVAC systems and electrical outlets to rule out the risk of electrical faults.

Do not forget to consider traffic, building insulation and energy-efficient features before relocating your home.

Sign a Lease Agreement

After all your efforts in apartment hunting, you can pay the security deposit and sign a lease agreement. Read it thoroughly and know your roles and responsibilities to prevent conflicts. The bond amount is equivalent to one week’s rent.

It is good to ask about the tenancy tenure, renewal options and penalties for breaking the lease early.

Prepare for A Home Relocation

Once you have selected your apartment, it is time to prepare for a house move. Below are some of the best tips to consider:

Prepare a Moving Checklist: Create a proper checklist to streamline the process. Whether preparing for a hybrid move or a full-moving service, jot down tasks and set a timeline.

Create a Floor Plan: Measure your rooms, doorways, and hallways in the new house to decide what to keep and what to leave.

De-clutter your Belongings: De-clutter your items that you no longer need. Downsize if moving into a studio apartment.

Hire Experts in Advance: Book professional removalists Brisbane to keep your belongings intact. Ask relevant questions to make a well-informed decision.

Pack Your Items: Pack your household belongings using bubble wrap, packing paper and sturdy boxes, especially for delicate items.

How to Hunt Your Apartment When Relocating Home?

tips for hunting apartment before moving

Wrapping Up

This guide will help you find the most desired apartment in Brisbane within your estimated budget and specific requirements. You can hunt your new nest and plan a safe relocation for a stress-free experience.