Get up to 3% money back

Fiscal Pros and Cons of an Apartment

It’s always a good idea to assess your financial situation and set realistic spending and savings goals before starting your real estate search. Once you have your goal in mind, you can plan long-term, fall in love with the perfect place, and make Tampa your home.

What to Consider When Looking for a Tampa Apartment or Condo

Tampa is one of Florida’s most iconic cities. Aside from the endless sunshine, Tampa has a myriad of cultural attractions and unique neighborhoods. A unique mix of relaxed beach-side vibes and bustling city center, Tampa is a popular destination for living and vacationing.

Tampa Neighborhoods

• Downtown St. Petersburg: The heart of everything. This neighborhood is perfect for those looking for a metropolitan experience complete with high-rise buildings and ‘round the clock activity.
• Downtown Tampa: Shop at dozens of boutiques, dine at a new restaurant every night, and relax in some of the city’s chicest parks and recreation areas. You’ll never run out of things to do in this fast-paced neighborhood.
• Gulfport: This diverse area offers a little bit of something for everyone from historic bungalows and unique shops, plus easy access to the waterfront.
• Historic Kenwood: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this charming area has 1920s architecture and an annual BungalowFest to celebrate its history.
• Hyde Park: This hip neighborhood is a perfect choice for working professionals who can unwind at Hyde Park Village, a large outdoor recreation area, and stroll down the famous Bayshore Boulevard.
• Seminole Heights: This artsy neighborhood is brimming with hidden culinary gems, antique shops, the latest go-to spots.
• Ybor City: Known as the “Latin Quarter,” this area is heavily influenced by Cuban culture. Enjoy amenities, such as the Florida Aquarium and the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

While cars are the most popular mode of transportation for Tampa residents, the gorgeous weather makes it possible to bike, walk, and rollerblade. Local transportation is an option that many residents use in the city or as their primary way to get around.

• Coast Bike Share: No bike? No problem. Use the free mobile app to rent shared bikes throughout the city.
• Downtowner: Hop on this free, on-demand shuttle using the free mobile app.
• HART buses: The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority bus run through Hillsborough County area.
• Pirate Water Taxi: This quirky boat makes 14 stops along the Hillsborough river that runs through Downtown, the Channelside District and Davis Island.
• PSTA buses: The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority buses cover St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
• TECO Streetcar: This vintage trolley travels between downtown Tampa, Channelside and historic Ybor City.

1. Pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, Kings Drugs Inc.
2. Grocery Stores: Trader Joe’s, The Fresh Market, Winn-Dixie
3. Convenience Stores: Circle K, 7-Eleven, Metro Market

The Home Itself

Once you’ve fallen in love with your neighborhood, it’s time to take a critical look at the Tampa apartment you’re about to rent. There are many things to consider when choosing the apartment that’s right for you. How much space will you need? What appliances are a must? Do you love the interior?

It’s standard to list apartment measurements in square feet but it may be confusing to decide exactly how much space is enough for your daily needs. As you visit apartments, make a note of which ones feel too small, which are a little roomy, and what seems just right. Also keep in mind that empty apartments always seem bigger so be sure to get the apartment’s dimensions so that all your furniture and necessities fit comfortably.

You can do a lot with savvy interior decorating but some things, such as window placement and layout, can’t be changed. Make sure you’re happy with the basics of your Tampa apartment before signing the lease. Depending on the terms of your lease, you may be able to paint the walls, change the carpet or install overhead lighting. When in doubt, just ask.

Consider the large appliances you’ll need that may or may not come with your Tampa apartment, such as refrigerator, stove, washer, dryer, or air conditioning. Be sure to inspect the appliances that your landlord has installed and make it clear who is responsible for fixing things if something breaks. Do a walkthrough of the apartment and make note of anything that looks like it needs fixing.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Light switch functionality
• Location of electrical sockets
• Plumbing and water pressure
• Natural light
• Elevator and stair locations
• If the home is pet friendly
• Is the apartment or condo in a loud area?
• How does the parking look?
• Is it furnished or unfurnished?

Visit Tampa Apartments or Condos

There’s no better way to get a feel for a Tampa apartment than to tour the property. Make sure you get V.I.P. treatment by calling the landlord or building manager ahead of time to express your interest and schedule an appointment. While you’re there, take a few minutes to talk to current residents, this could give you a perspective that the manager won’t tell you.

Be wary of:

• Noisy or rude neighbors
• Condensation on the windows
• Spotted surfaces
• Uneven floors
• Poor water pressure
• Faulty locks
• Any holes or crack in the paint

Questions to ask the landlord/building manager:

• How are maintenance requests handled?
• How old is the building and its systems?
• What are the amenities?
• What utilities are included?
• Is this unit rent controlled?

Moving In to Your Tampa Apartment or Condo

Congratulations on finding your very own Tampa apartment! Before you get ready to move in, do a walkthrough with your landlord or building manager and, if needed, hire a professional to inspect the home. It’s also a good idea to protect your property with renters’ insurance and to confirm the emergency contact for your building. Now, all that’s left to do is move in and throw a fantastic housewarming party to celebrate your Tampa apartment.