Guide to Apartment Hunting

Looking for apartments in another state 

Touring apartments can be an exciting process, but looking for one in another state can require more planning and flexibility. Luckily, there are plenty of tools to help you make the best decision — even when you can’t visit potential apartments in person.

How to apartment hunt long distance

Find your perfect out-of-state apartment with these steps:

1. Research the location

Determining where to live often depends on the reason you’re moving. If you’re moving for a job, look for neighborhoods near work or public transportation stops. Headed to college? Look for places close to campus. Just getting a fresh start? Search for parks, gyms and other amenities important for your lifestyle. 

Online community forums, city guides and student groups are good resources for learning about potential areas. You can also contact a local agent specializing in apartment rentals for advice and information about the places you’re considering. 

2. Set a budget

When setting a budget, factor in any cost-of-living adjustments for the new city, which could be more or less than the previous hometown.  

Consider your monthly income and deduct expenses like rent, utilities, transportation, and other incidentals like groceries and entertainment. Most financial experts recommend spending no more than 25%-30% of your income on rent. 

You’ll also need money up-front for apartment fees like security and pet deposits or renter’s insurance. 

3. Prioritize must-haves for the new place 

Make a list of essential features and negotiables for the apartment. Your list can help narrow down the search.  

Here are some things to consider: 

• Lease terms 
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms 
• Kitchen appliances (gas vs. electric, refrigerator, dishwasher) 
• On-site amenities: laundry, parking, pool, gym, elevator, security, etc. 
• Pet policy 

For example, having a dishwasher might be something you want but could live without, while allowing pets might be non-negotiable if you plan to bring along your beloved cat or dog.

4. Search for apartments remotely 

Now that you have a budget and a list of essentials, it’s time to start the apartment search. If you’re unable to visit the neighborhood in person, use online resources to search for apartments that meet your needs.  

Many apartment complexes have websites where you can view units. You can also find listings on local real estate websites or national sites like Zillow. Consider hiring a local real estate agent to assist in your search. They may provide virtual walkthroughs so you can see the place live. 

If you’re relocating for college, ask the campus housing office for apartment recommendations. Some companies offer relocation services for new employees, so ask if the benefit is available if you’re moving for a job. 

5. Sign a lease 

Once you find the right apartment with the perfect blend of wants and needs, it’s time to pay the deposit and sign a lease. If you’re handling everything remotely, be prepared to provide documentation digitally.  

Many banks offer notary services to verify your signature if needed — just call your bank to ask.  

Ready for the next steps? This apartment moving guide covers everything you need to know about the relocation process. 

Plan your apartment move with U-Pack

Don’t stress about your upcoming move to an apartment out of state—U-Pack® can help! We’re a DIY long-distance moving service that handles moves like yours all the time.  

Request your free quote online now or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. If you have questions about U-Pack services or finding an out-of-state apartment, just let us know in the comments! We want to help!