How Finding the Perfect Apartment Is Like Finding the Perfect Life Partner

You’re endlessly scrolling through rental listing websites, looking for that perfect new place to move into and, suddenly, an overpowering feeling of déjà vu hits you: You’ve done this before. You’ve read descriptions and looked at photos and wondered if it were something worth pursuing. Except, it wasn’t a listing website — it was a dating app. And then, it dawns on you: Searching for a new apartment to rent can be a lot like searching for a life partner — exhausting and, at times, feeling like you’ll never find the right fit.

So, just in time for the month of love, here’s what to look for when swiping right on an apartment and a life partner — whether you’re thinking about entering a rental relationship or a romantic one.

Confirm you’re on the same page

Whatever your intentions are, make them clear from the get-go. Don’t get yourself entangled in a situationship, especially if you’re looking for a long-term contract. Not everyone is in it for the long haul, and you just might end up with a short-term lease when what you really wanted was that keyring on your finger for years to come.

It’s not just about looks

Maybe you took one glance and you’re smitten. But, be careful: Those tall, dark closets can have skeletons in them. So, be sure to do a thorough check before moving in and consider other qualities, as well, such as location, layout, parking and storage space.

Then, take your time and “date” that apartment as much as you can before deciding to move in. Plus, unlike a regular date, you can bring a checklist with you to make sure you have everything covered.

Is it fun to be around?

A relationship can quickly turn sour when boredom comes into play. For many, the perfect partner is exciting to be around, and the same applies when looking for an apartment. No matter what your interests are, make sure that you don’t have to venture too far from your new home in search of a good time out on the town.

Remember, a fun relationship is a long-lasting one, so check for restaurants, cafés, parks, museums and any other forms of entertainment nearby when committing to a new apartment.

Are you giving more than you’re getting?

Let’s face it: Everyone loves a fixer-upper. So what if that wallpaper is a little bit damaged? You can change it, right? And, although that water leak is a small issue, the layout of the place is exactly what you were looking for, so it makes up for it.

While some relationships are worth investing in, others are simply one-sided — and you don’t want to be on the losing end. So, after you’ve checked out every nook and cranny, make a list of the pros and cons of the apartment you’re considering. While you certainly want the positive to outweigh the negative, just remember that (much like the perfect partner) the perfect apartment is a rare find.

Fortunately, if that relationship doesn’t work out, you can always look for your next place on rentcafe.com for a match made in rental heaven.