| With a little consideration, finding a family friendly | | | | If possible, try to view an apartment when |
| apartment can be a move you look forward to. | | | | families are likely to be home, this will allow you to |
| Look at these characteristics and make the | | | | see how noise transfers between units. |
| appropriate decision when you visit apartment | | | | Besides the apartment and complex itself, |
| complexes: | | | | consider these items to make the most of family |
| Space. Is there enough closet space for all of the | | | | living in an apartment. |
| toys, equipment, clothes, cleaning supplies, etc? If | | | | Are there accessible toddler options like art, |
| not, does the complex have additional storage | | | | music, physical activity, language? For older |
| available, or is there a self storage business | | | | children, is there a community center, YMCA or |
| nearby that will be affordable and convenient? | | | | other place where they can safely get exercise |
| Pesticide smell. The chemicals are not good for | | | | rain or shine? What about day care, if that's |
| your children, and if you can smell it, somebody | | | | something you need and want, is it in the |
| may have felt there was a big enough problem to | | | | neighborhood or en route to work? |
| really douse the place. | | | | Is there easy access to the essentials? Never |
| Do the windows seal tightly. See if you find | | | | underestimate the value of proximity to milk, |
| evidence of water stains or excess humidity. | | | | bread, and diapers. The same goes for other |
| Does the plaster look good, or is there separation | | | | service businesses that can make your life easier, |
| of baseboards from floor? Any or all of these | | | | such as a dry cleaner, drugstore/pharmacy and |
| might indicate that the apartment, or the building, | | | | fast food for delivery (pizza, etc). |
| has a mold problem. Leaky windows and doors will | | | | What entertainment options are nearby? Is there |
| increase your utility bills. | | | | a library, museum, or park that is convenient and |
| How are the apartments laid out? Most apartment | | | | will satisfy or interest the needs of the family? Do |
| buildings tend to be developed in a line plan, that | | | | children have a place to ride their bikes or roller |
| is, apartments above and below are the same | | | | blade safely? |
| configuration, so bedrooms, kitchens, and living | | | | By taking these items into consideration as well as |
| rooms all stack up. This can be beneficial as | | | | your own wants and needs you can find an |
| childrens rooms will be over childrens rooms, etc. | | | | apartment that fits you and your family. |