After meeting with a Raleigh divorce lawyer, you may have decided it’s best to move out of your home and find an apartment. Make sure you’ve discussed all your options with your Raleigh divorce lawyer – including whether your move to an apartment will be temporary; in some cases, you may be allowed to move back into your home after the divorce is final.
Your Raleigh divorce lawyer can help you plan for an apartment move by providing you with a timeline. If you and your Raleigh divorce lawyer have decided it’s best for you to move into an apartment, plan early.
How to Find an Apartment During a Raleigh Divorce
Your Raleigh divorce lawyer may be very familiar with the area, so it can’t hurt to ask whether he or she knows anything about local apartments. Additionally, your Raleigh divorce lawyer is probably familiar with your financial situation – so he or she may be able to recommend an apartment complex that fits within your budget.
If you’re not comfortable asking your Raleigh divorce lawyer for some suggestions, or if you don’t care for the suggestions your Raleigh divorce lawyer has made, there are several resources to help you find an apartment.
Check these sites for online apartment listings in Raleigh:
• ApartmentGuide.com – Raleigh
• ApartmentFinder.com – Raleigh
You may also consider asking a local real estate agent to help you find an apartment (and if you’d like, ask your Raleigh divorce lawyer for the name of a professional real estate agent in Raleigh; chances are, your Raleigh divorce lawyer has referred past clients to real estate agents, as well).
What to Look For in an Apartment
Divorce changes your circumstances drastically. You’ll need to consult with your Raleigh divorce lawyer to determine how your financial situation will change, whether you’ll be moving with children and pets, and whether you need to stay within the confines of a particular school district. Each of these things will determine where you’re able to search for an apartment, and your Raleigh divorce lawyer can be a valuable asset by providing the right information as you begin your hunt.
Things to Ask the Landlord
After you’ve spoken with your Raleigh divorce lawyer to narrow your selection, it’s time to start meeting with landlords and rental agents. At each meeting, you’ll need to ask:
• How much is the security deposit?
• Are pets allowed?
• Do I need to carry renter’s insurance?
• How many months must I sign for on the lease?
• May I sublet the apartment if I choose to move before the lease is up?
• What school district is this apartment complex/house in?
Remember to assess the surrounding neighborhood as you tour apartments. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, move on to the next apartment.
Ultimately, the decision of where you move is up to you – but be sure to consult with your Raleigh divorce lawyer before you sign a lease to make sure it’s the right decision.
