Hunting Apartment in Urban Cities? Don't Lease Blindly: Here's What You Need to Know Before Hunting in a New City

Moving to a different city in a different state is a wise decision for many reasons, but rushing into any decision due to anxiety from many reasons known to man may end in tears that ruin the peace you've taken all your life to search for in new cities.

As a Real Estate Service Provider, some of our clients relocating from different cities face rental issues due to common problems known to mankind that cause them anxiety. But not to worry, this apartment hunting guide has been carefully curated to walk you through the journey. As you read along, you will learn about strategies you can use and things you can do to get ready for your big move.

PS: No matter what we discuss here, it takes skill, resilience, and a knowledge of the right real estate agents that are connected to your preferred location to get a good apartment on your budget.

Contact Our Agent in Ibadan. Oyo State @ Homebiro Solution LTD on 

WHATSAPP: 09078145188

So, let's start with your guide.

Decide on your amenities & communicate them with your agent. 

Whether you have a lot of money for a big luxury flat or you simply want to live in a room somewhere in a particular urban environment, you'll find something suitable for your taste in every urban city in Nigeria. But what you want to decide on first is your amenities to give you clarity on how things work in that environment, for better positioning of yourself to compromise on the "have not", which would make your living experience in a particular place the best. Some of the popular amenities you may want to look out for in your new apartment include:

• Fitness Center
• Workspace
• Electricity
• Library
• Market
• Security
• Proximity to work
• Proximity to the academy places
• Proximity to a good health care center
• Serene environment

Set Your Budget (Then Lower Your Expectations)

Be firm, be clear when discussing your budget with your agent. Agents are a necessary evil. Some are lifesavers, others are professional time-wasters. They’ll show you houses that have nothing to do with your brief and still expect “inspection money.” 

Contact Our Agent in Ibadan, Oyo State @ Homebiro Solution LTD on 

WHATSAPP: 09078145188

You might dream of a clean apartment with the latest facilities, but if your budget says "low ceiling" houses or PVC. Nigeria’s real estate market, especially in urban areas, can humble even the most optimistic.

You might need to Decide how much you can afford to tip your agent ahead for a good search that's eco-friendly with you budget especially for those moving without jobs in new cities, this is essential for your agent to get your paperwork ready for your new landlord to verify your credibility and remember to factor in agency fees (usually 10%), legal fees (another 10%), caution fees which varies.

 Plan Your Trip

Whether you're moving to a new city you know or don't, you should try to live near your family and friends for a space of 5, 15 to 30 days even if you feel uncomfortable with them, OR ask if your rental agency company have affordable space you can stay or an affordable service apartment/hotel to explore your new city to see the weather and way of living or considering your new job in that place, The city's walk, bike, and transit scores might help you choose the best form of transportation if you intend to get around without a car.

Exercise patience, no matter the high level of pressure or the amount of money available to you.

Hunt for peace according to your budget and amenities, it's your money, DON'T RUSH

Inspect Thoroughly

When you finally find a place that looks good, inspect EVERYTHING. Flush the toilet, test the taps, check the walls for dampness, ensure the sockets work, and ask about the light and water supply. Don’t be shy—your future comfort depends on it.

Once you say yes to the apartment, it’s time to face the paperwork. Always ask to see the tenancy agreement. Read it thoroughly. Note terms around repairs, increment clauses, and notice periods. If possible, get a lawyer to look through it.

An Agency Company like Homebiro Solution LTD could help you check through the tenancy agreement for free.

Never pay cash. Use transfers and keep receipts. Pay directly to the landlord or property manager, not through an intermediary or your agent.

Now that your apartment is yours, TAKE RESPONSIBILITY,  THE CITY IS YOURS.