ALWAYS USE THE APARTMENT STORE

The leasing consultants know all of the answers or can get you the answer within moments. They have extensive knowledge of the rental market and other information on Albuquerque.. This will save you time and money. Let the experts do all of the work and you just sit back and relax.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT IN YOUR NEW APARTMENT?

In Albuquerque your new apartment home will be carpeted and include mini blinds, vertical blinds, or drapes. The kitchen is equipped with a range, refrigerator, and in most cases, you'll have a dishwasher and disposal. Many upscale communities include upgraded appliances, microwave, ice maker, designer cabinetry, washer/dryer or hook ups, intrusion alarms, and more. Yes, of course, your new home will have air conditioning. In most cases, water, sewer, and trash removal are included. But there is a trend toward the resident paying their own water and/or sewer, so be sure to figure that into your budget. Some communities include basic cable. A limited number of apartment communities offer utilities paid, or one of the utilities is paid, usually the gas. Your APARTMENT STORE consultant can tell you what is available in each community.

HOW ABOUT YOUR NEW APARTMENT COMMUNITY?

Your new community will probably have a swimming pool. Other amenities vary from place to place, but could include such things as: Jacuzzi, Tennis Courts, Sand Volleyball, Racquetball, Fitness Center, Clubhouse, Game Room, Laundry Facilities, Concierge Services, Playground, Car Wash Area, Access Gates, Picnic/BBQ Area, Basketball Courts, Garages or Carports. . .the list is endless. Most will have on-site professional management and maintenance. Communities are generally two or three stories; Albuquerque does have a few elevator buildings. Your APARTMENT STORE consultant can search for the amenities you desire.

Only you can determine your rent budget. As a guideline, the Apartment communities consider your total gross monthly income in qualifying and your income should be 3 times the rent. So for a $500.00 rental your gross monthly income must be $1500.00 in order to qualify.

WILL THEY ACCEPT MY PET?

Many communities will accept small pets, 2Olbs is usually the limit. A few will accept larger pets or more than one. Pet deposits and non-refundable pet fees average around $200.00. Most communities also charge pet rent. Your APARTMENT STORE consultant can help you find the right place for you and your furry friend.

LOOKING AT APARTMENTS

Identification: Be sure that all people wishing to view any apartment have their driver's license with them. A photo ID is required identification at most apartment communities to view any unit.
Viewing Apartments: Remember, empty units always look smaller than they are. Try to picture how your furniture will fit. Keep in mind any extremely large wall units, sectionals, etc. Bring measurements and a tape measure with you, if necessary. Be prepared to fill out an application and leave a deposit when you find the right place.

SPECIALS & AVAILABILITY

Many communities offer move-in specials. Your APARTMENT STORE consultant has up to the date information on current specials and current availability. Keep in mind that any special can end at any moment. Apartment availability can also change quickly. A unit that is available this morning may be rented this afternoon. The best ones tend to go quickly. For future occupancy, (over 30 to 60 days) many communities can put you on a priority waiting list for the first available apartment. Generally, in order to hold any apartment, the community requires your application, application fee, and at least a portion of the security deposit.

WHEN YOU'VE MADE YOUR DECISION

Most communities charge a non-refundable application fee of $15-$50 per application. Roommates will generally be charged separate application fees. When you are ready to apply for lease approval, make sure you fill out the application fully and truthfully. Any omission or error on the application may be cause for denial. The property management will verify your employment and income level. Generally, they require total gross monthly income to be at least three times the rent. They will check your rental history. Evictions or broken leases are cause for denial. Your credit history will also be checked. Some communities also check criminal backgrounds. Ask the community leasing consultant for their approval guidelines. If you know of any problems with your history, be up front with the apartment management. They may be able to work with you, but, when surprises show up in their report, it may be too late. Some properties will require an extra deposit or prepaid rent of 2-3 months if there has been a problem in the past. Ask your APARTMENT STORE consultant which apartments will meet your specific needs.

LEASE TERMS

The average lease in Albuquerque is for six or 12 months. The APARTMENT STORE has several apartments that do a 3 month lease, a month to month lease, or anything in between. Read your lease carefully and be sure you understand it before you sign it. It is a legally binding document, and its terms will be enforced by the property management. Any changes or exceptions to lease terms must be in writing.

UTILITY DEPOSITS

Albuquerque uses PNM Electric and Gas Services. You may call 246-5700 to connect your utilities. Electric service has a $15.00 fee associated with connection, and $22.00 associated with gas connection (plus tax). The deposit is based on the past history of the account for your new address. If you have been on the job for more than one year and can get a letter from your employer or if you can get a letter of reference from a previous utility provider, your deposit could be waived. Most communities will not allow you to take occupancy until the utilities have been turned on.

SECURITY DEPOSITS

Security deposits for qualified application generally range from $150.00 to $300.00

NEED FURNITURE?

A few communities offer basic limited apartments. Another choice is to rent furniture from CORT Furniture. This will allow you to have a larger choice of apartments to choose from. Renting furniture can be done over the phone with a credit card. CORT furniture makes it as easy as possible. Ask your APARTMENT STORE consultant for more information and receive a 20% discount off your first month furniture rental.

HOUSES, TOWNHOUSES, DUPLEXES, FOURPLEXES AND OTHERS

Yes, we do it all. We do specialize in large Apartment Communities, however, we have a good selection of private units. Ask your APARTMENT STORE Consultant for information.

MISCELLANEOUS

Your APARTMENT STORE consultant has a vast amount of general information on Albuquerque, so please ask us. We can also direct you to Realtors, Day Cares, employment information or any other special requests. We will try our best to direct you. So please call your APARTMENT STORE consultant today!