Finding Affordable Housing in Des Moines: A Guide to Cheap Apartments
Des Moines, Iowa, offers a vibrant city life with a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive place to call home. But finding a cheap apartment in Des Moines can be a challenge, especially with the increasing demand for housing.
This guide will help you navigate the Des Moines rental market and find the best affordable options for you:
1. Know Your Budget
- Determine your monthly housing budget: Factor in your income, expenses, and desired lifestyle.
- Research average rental prices: Check websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Trulia to get an idea of typical rental costs for different neighborhoods and apartment types.
2. Explore Different Neighborhoods
- Consider neighborhoods outside the city center: Areas like Beaverdale, Sherman Hill, and Ingersoll offer charming homes and apartments at lower prices than downtown.
- Explore up-and-coming neighborhoods: The East Village and the Riverwalk are undergoing revitalization and may offer affordable options.
- Consider the commute: If you work downtown, calculate the cost and time of your daily commute.
3. Leverage Online Resources
- Utilize rental search websites: Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, Trulia, and Craigslist are great starting points.
- Explore local classifieds: Check local newspapers and online classifieds for listings.
- Look for "special offers" and "move-in specials": Some landlords offer incentives to attract tenants, including rent discounts or waived application fees.
4. Get Creative with Your Housing Options
- Consider renting a room: Room rentals offer a lower monthly cost and a chance to live in a community.
- Look for duplexes and townhomes: These options can offer more space for less than a traditional apartment.
- Explore off-campus student housing: If you're a student or don't need a lot of space, student housing complexes might offer affordable options.
5. Negotiate
- Be prepared to negotiate: If you find an apartment within your budget, don't hesitate to negotiate the rent or other terms.
- Highlight your strengths: Emphasize your positive rental history, good credit score, and stable income.
6. Be Patient
- Finding the right apartment takes time: Don't rush the process and be prepared to view multiple properties.
- Network with friends and locals: Ask for recommendations or advice from people who have found good deals in Des Moines.
Remember, while finding cheap apartments in Des Moines can be challenging, it's possible with careful planning, research, and persistence.
