While the goal of living in a home has long been viewed as the ultimate American dream, an increasing number of Americans are choosing apartment living over home ownership. This level of apartment renting popularity encompasses a variety of generations, ranging from retired Baby Boomers to Gen Z graduates finding their first jobs. The decision to choose apartment living over home ownership also includes people with a variety of income levels, ranging from very wealthy to those earning minimum wage.

For some apartment renters, the decision to rent an apartment is a brand new experience. For renters who have never experienced an apartment before, there are considerations to keep in mind. When you take the time to look for the perfect apartment, your living experience can be rewarding, beneficial, and stress-free. Consider these tips to make sure that you are getting the apartment of your dreams.

Determining "Must Have" Features for an Apartment Rental

When you are looking at potential apartment features, you should consider both indoor and outdoor ones. You should also consider the type of lifestyle that matters most to you.

For outdoor features, do you have a vehicle? If so, you may consider a designated parking spot to be a "must have feature." If the apartment complex doesn't have that, do they have a safe and reliable place for you to park your vehicle?

What about entertainment and relaxation? Does the apartment complex have a reliable pool? Are you able to entertain guests there, or is it open to apartment renters only? If you have children, you may wish for a backyard, patio, or playground to be included.

Indoor must-have features typically include central air and heating. You may also wish to have certain appliances, such as a stove and refrigerator. While you are looking, decide what your laundry "must haves" are - do you need a washer and dryer in your unit, or do you need laundry facilities in the building?

Tools for Finding Potential Apartments

The Internet is without a doubt the best tool for helping you find potential apartments. If you are active on Facebook, the marketplace listing often has apartments in your area for rent. You may also be able to use other social media accounts, such as Twitter, to network in order to find privately owned apartments or smaller complexes within the geographic area you are considering.

Zillow is available in both app and website format, and it is a commonly used resource for both buyers and renters. You can sort by features, price, and area with Zillow.

If you live close to the area that you are planning on moving to, you can also look for apartment complexes off-line. If you see an apartment you are interested in, don't be afraid to call them up and ask if they have any vacancies.

Red Flags When Renting an Apartment

You want to be happy in your new apartment, so it is best to notice potential problems before you sign the lease. A major major red flag is the apartment complex announcing that they do not screen backgrounds or credit. This can be a sign that they have difficulty filling vacancies, and it's a sign that they are not concerned with their tenants' safety.

You can also consider unclean apartment complexes to be a red flag. If the carpets are stained and the lawns lack care, you are likely to experience poor management.

Hidden fees and the ability to alter the lease are additional red flags when you are reviewing the apartment lease. Make sure you examine the lease carefully before signing.