Housing (rent or mortgage) should not be more than 1/3 of your income before taxes. If you work full time (40 hours) at $12 per hour, that's $2000 per month, so you shouldn't spend more than $667 per month on housing. That's definitely going to restrict where you can live.
Renting, especially on a short-term basis, can sometimes come with higher monthly costs due to the increased flexibility it offers the landlord. For instance, a studio apartment for rent on a month-to-month basis might be more expensive per month than the same apartment under a lease agreement.
Lifestyle and Flexibility Renting suits those who value the freedom to move on short notice. On the other hand, leasing is better for those seeking a stable, long-term home and are willing to commit to a fixed period.
The lowest rental rates are usually found between October and April, particularly right after the December holiday season. Fewer people are interested in moving—the weather's bad, schools are in session, etc. So individuals renting between the months of December and March typically find the best rental bargains.
Apartment lease payments aren't reported to the credit bureaus like monthly mortgage payments are.
Renting an apartment isn't as easy as waltzing in and saying “I'll take it!”—particularly in today's competitive rental market. With many prospective tenants to choose from, landlords can be picky, and they will prioritize applicants with a track record of paying off debts and respecting their neighbors and community.
Yes, you can rent an apartment without a job, but it may be more challenging. Here are some options and considerations: Proof of Income: Landlords typically want to see proof of income. If you don't have a job, you might need to provide other forms of income, such as savings, rental income, or support from family.
Typically, federal and state housing programs restrict eligibility to households with earnings that must be at or below 80 percent of the median family income (MFI) for the county where the housing is located.
Renting, especially on a short-term basis, can sometimes come with higher monthly costs due to the increased flexibility it offers the landlord. For instance, a studio apartment for rent on a month-to-month basis might be more expensive per month than the same apartment under a lease agreement.