THINGS I WISH MY KIDS WOULD ASK ME
Editor’s note: Barry Courter has a 22-year-old son who recently graduated from college and an 18-year-old daughter who is a senior in high school.
Q: Dad, what are some things to think about when looking to rent an apartment?
A: Try to figure out your needs and wants and the extra costs. Does it have laundry, is it close to work or school, and does it offer free parking? Check and then double-check utility costs. These can kill your budget. Try to think long-term, like whether you plan to be there awhile or if you will outgrow it. Ask if the landlord is quick to fix things. Check on your neighbors also. Living next to college students can be as bad as living next to Gladys Kravitz (look her up).
— By Barry Courter