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when you rent a Miami property.

Assessing Your Financial Situation
for Renting an Apartment or Condo in Miami.

Miami is a city of nearly half-a-million people just like you who have come to enjoy the culture, sun, and surf. Millions come through annually to enjoy what the city has to offer. Some like it so much that they decide to stay and find a home here like you. Apartments and condos in Miami are premium real estate and you are going to need to move fast if you want to find one that matches your tastes.

When you are looking for to rent a Miami apartment or condo in your area, you need to consider the cost of living. Miami is a popular location, so that means that the price to rent a Miami apartment or condo is often high. Check the pricing for housing in the area you are looking at and make sure that you do not overexert yourself financially. After you learn more about your options, then you can begin to look over the financial qualities of the homes.

Fiscal Pros and Cons of an Apartment

Miami sell your home for sale by owner

A Miami apartment or condo that costs more than 25% of your gross income to rent is too much for an apartment. You want a Miami apartment or condo that matches your financial needs and provides the amenities that will help you in your day to day life. For example, what is food situation in the surrounding area? You need to eat, which means you should pay attention to any nearby restaurants and supermarkets.

Check the area around your Miami apartment or condo and make sure that all your needs are met. Even needs that seem less important than others often become an issue when not addressed. For example, gas stations are not often considered when you are deciding to pick out a home, but what happens when you need to refill your car? This is especially important if you want to join in on all the great party locations Miami has to offer. The city nightlife is famous for the bars and clubs that keep the party going until the sun comes up.

Partying and fun is a big part of moving to Miami, but an apartment or condo should also be a home instead of just some place to wait for the next night out. A home isn’t much of a place to stay if you don't keep it clean. Your budget should include having enough funds keep up personal hygiene for yourself and your home. If you don’t already have them, then you are going to need to buy kitchen supplies and furniture as well. Plan ahead and see if the furniture you already do have will fit in your apartment, and whether you are going to need to sell some things to make some room.

Preparing Documents Necessary for Renting an Apartment or Condo in Miami

Miami sell your home for sale by owner

When you find the perfect Miami apartment or Condo for rent then the next few steps are simple and easy to handle. You are going to need to pay an application fee in order to show the owner that you are serious about wanting to move in. It helps to have a co-signer ready in order to cement in documents with an extra witness willing to testify your credibility. It also helps to have the last 3 pay stubs from your current job and some kind of proof of employment handy. You can use the documentation from your job to show the owner that you have steady employment and are going to reliably pay your rent.

Have your credit history ready in case the owner asks, especially if you are going to need help with paying rent for the apartment of condo. It helps to provide a list of past addresses too, with references that owners can check. Other information you are going to need to provide includes:

  1. The latest Photo Identification You Have
  2. Your Most Recent Tax Return
  3. Your Banking Information
  4. Proof of Residency for Non-Citizens
  5. Proof of Residency for Non-Citizens

Keep in mind that others might also be looking to buy a Miami apartment or condo. If you neglect to include any information, then that harms your claim on the apartment. Depending on where the apartment is, you could have plenty of competitors.

What to Consider When Looking for a Miami Apartment or Condo

Miami sell your home for sale by owner

Miami is a melting pot of cultures, with every area offering something new and interesting to sink your teeth into. When you are looking into Miami apartments and condos for rent then location is a huge part of the process. Some of the more popular areas to look into include:

Miami Neighborhoods

  • Coral Gables: The Coral Gables area is home to generations of high-class immigrants who have made the area into an oasis of culture. The apartments and condos here are sought out due to closeness to highways, the beach, good schools and quality shopping.
  • South Beach: The Miami South Beach area is known as a popular hub for the young and famous. The condo rates in the area are reasonable and you are always near the hottest Miami action here.
  • Coconut Grove: This neighborhood lies along the Florida shore, and is a popular place for the young and old alike. The home’s here are fairly pricey due to being so close to the waterfront and all the many commercial centers.
  • Aventura: This neighborhood is also placed along the Florida coast. It mostly caters to professionals, business practitioners, and the older residents who move to their condos here in the winter months. The condos and homes here have access to highways that can very conveniently get you around Miami.
  • Miami Beach: If you want to move into a home at the very forefront of the Miami lifestyle, then this is the place to start. You have a variety of stylish homes available, from modest housing to literal mansions, that put you right next to all the latest action.
  • Midtown: AKA “Overtown”, the homes in this locale have the benefits of being near plenty of places of interest. The rent is lower than other nearby areas too, mainly due to the homes here not being on the waterfront.
  • Downtown: Also known as the Central Business District of Miami, this area has some of the priciest real estate in Miami. But, if you’re looking for quality housing in an area thriving with activity then this is the neighborhood to see.
  • Wynwood: The neighborhood is most known for its more artistic attractions. Look through the galleries or the art adorning the buildings to enjoy the more creative vibe of this neighborhood.
  • Brickell: This area is also known as the financial district, and is the perfect area for people already well-versed in the city life. There is plenty of shopping, clubs, lounges and bars for those who are more used to a frenetic lifestyle.
  • Little Haiti: This neighborhood is rising in interest as people continue to renovate and refine the many shops and commercial businesses. Costs or rising so invest early and look into renting while real estate quality here is still on the rise.

Miami Transportation

Miami sell your home for sale by owner

You are also need to look into how you’re going to get around Miami. A car isn't a bad idea considering the variety of highways and roads that flow through the area. However, when you don’t have a car or any other mode of driving anywhere available then the city has great public transportation. Some of the systems available to help get you around include the:

  • Metrorail: This rail system is 25-miles long with a north and south bound track that stretches from Palmetto to Dadeland south. There are even multiple routes, the Orange line train can take you to Miami International Airport (MIA).
  • Metromover: This is a free local system used to get help you get around downtown Miami. The mover will quickly drop you off in downtowns most popular hubs of culture and entertainment.
  • Miami Buses: The metro bus system has over 95 routes that encompass the majority of Miami. This classic mode of transportation is running constantly throughout the year, with over 1,000 buses currently in service.
  • Miami Trolley: If you are looking to live in the city, then it might be best to familiarize yourself with this quaint mode of transportation. The trolley makes its way across the city and acts like a bus would, there are less in service, but they are free to use.

Miami Pharmacies, Grocery and Convenience Stores

You should also acquaint yourself with the different types of nearby stores Miami has in order to know how to get what you need. The area has plenty of locations to take note of for practical purposes.

  1. Pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, VH Pharmacy
  2. Grocery Stores: Publix, Whole Foods, Sedanos
  3. Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, Stop'n Shop, Red Apple Market

Local Places to Know

Bars

Miami bars

Feel like heading out for a drink? Miami has hundreds of bars with different themes, clientele, and cocktails. Check out the party cities drinking scene with some of the best places to spend your night.

  • Ball & Chain: The stage of this bar has seen some of the most famous names in music sing to the crowded room. This bar has seen its fair share of history and with recent renovations it's not going anywhere anytime soon. 1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135-5218
  • Mayami: Trendy, stylish eatery offering Mexican fusion fare, plus creative cocktails & terrace dining.
    127 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127
  • Blue Martini Brickell: For the trendier drinker, this bar has a great selection to choose from. Live entertainment makes sure that every visitor has plenty of reason to stay. 900 S Miami Ave # 25, Miami, FL 33130-3044

Clubs

Miami club

A party city without clubs doesn’t live up to its name, so it's a good thing that there are plenty of clubs to see. Dance the night away in these stylish, trendy locales that have you spending time with Miami’s top players.

  • Club Space: This night club is for hardcore partiers only, it only closes when the sun comes up the next morning. So come as late as you want and keep the fun going as long as you want. 34 NE 11 St., Miami, 305-495-8712
  • LIV: This club is famous for its clientele, seeing top Miami players and celebrities nightly. Partying here is like stepping right into a music video. 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-674-468
  • Do Not Sit on the Furniture: Looking for something new and weird? This out-of-the-way bar provides just what you need, the only rule: Don’t sit on the couches or chairs. 423 16th St., Miami Beach, 510-551-5067

Lounges

Miami louges

For a more low-key time, consider heading to some of Miami’s premier bars for a drink and some company. The lounges here are high-class and offer access to Miami’s more sophisticated crowd.

  • Bardot: The music here is as good as its drinks are cheap, and together they make for a great time. Take a look at the lounge helping to define the Miami nightlife. 3456 North Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33127, (305) 576-5570
  • Purdy Lounge: The lounge is bathed in a retro aesthetic designed to help you relax. Try a different atmosphere as you take in the unique aspects of this lounge. 1811 Purdy Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 305-531-4622

Restaurants

Miami restaurants

The Miami food scene has famous culinary experts from around the world providing first-class dining experiences. Miami is a melting pot of cultures with delicious meals known their world class quality.

  • Makoto: Headed by a famous chef, the restaurant shines with high class standards. Try out the variety of great meals to pick from. 9700 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour, FL
  • Mandolin Aegean Bistro: If you are looking for a taste of the Mediterranean then try out this classy Greek/Turkish fusion cuisine.4312 NE 2nd Ave
  • Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill: This location boasts three kitchens and a full range of meals designed to suite any palette. Enjoy the masterfully crafted menu. 3252 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL

Miami Hospitals

If you are going to move to Miami, then it is vital to know where the hospitals in the area are. You never know when an emergency or medical problem requires you to know more information than just dialing 911.

Miami home inspection for sale by owner

University of Miami Hospital
1400 NW 12th Ave,
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 325-5511

Mercy Hospital
3663 S Miami Ave,
Miami, FL 33133
(305) 854-4400

Jackson Memorial Hospital
1005, 1611 NW 12th Ave,
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 585-1111

Select Specialty Hospital - Miami
955 N.W. 3rd Street, Victoria Center,
Miami, FL 33128
(305) 416-5700

Westchester General Hospital
2805, 2500 SW 75th Ave,
Miami, FL 33155
(305) 264-5252

Veterans Administration Hospital Miami
1201 NW 16th St,
Miami, FL 33125
(305) 575-7000

Local Physicians

It is important to know about any physicians in your area. They will help you in emergencies and keep you healthy in case of health problems that don't quite qualify as emergencies.

Miami home inspection for sale by owner

Dr. Harris Mones
2645 Douglas Rd #502,
Miami, FL 33133
(305) 448-8134

Coral Gables Executive Physicians
800 Douglas Rd,
Miami, FL 33134
(305) 446-9940

Physician Health Center Mro: Dolsey Richard L MD
4483 NW 36th St,
Miami Springs, FL 33166
(305) 888-7555

Deschamps MD- Primary Care Physician Miami & Coral Gables
3550 Biscayne Blvd,
Miami, FL 33137
(305) 438-0258

Guardian Health Center
3550 Biscayne Blvd,
Miami, FL 33137
(305) 438-0258

Coral Gables Executive Physicians: Thomas Robert H MD
800 Douglas Rd,
Miami, FL 33134
(305) 446-9940

Dentists

Your dental hygiene is important in a city with food so good you never want to stop trying it all. Keep your teeth white and clean at these conveniently placed locations.

Miami home inspection for sale by owner

Coral Gables Dentistry
3326 Ponce de Leon,
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 567-1992

Miami Dental Sedation Spa
401 SW 42nd Ave #302,
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 445-4646

Midtown Dental
3915 Biscayne Blvd #306,
Miami, FL 33137
(305) 598-6070

Bayfront Dental
224 SE 1st St,
Miami, FL 33131
(305) 530-1866

Ultra Smile Dentistry
168 SE 1st St,
Miami, FL 33131
(305) 372-1020

Miami Sedation & Cosmetic Dentistry
2461 Coral Way # 1,
Coral Gables, FL 33145
(305) 857-3731

Pet Hospitals

When you furry friend in injured or sick then these nearby hospitals are here to help. Bring your pet to one of these locations for quality care and an expert analysis.

Miami home inspection for sale by owner

Miami Animal Hospital
4701 W Flagler St,
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 443-4777

Animal General Hospital Miami
7390 NW 74th St,
Miami, FL 33166
(305) 887-1764

Doral Centre Animal Hospital
9400 NW 58th St,
Doral, FL 33178
(305) 598-1234

Banfield Pet Hospital
8241 W Flagler St Suite 101,
Miami, FL 33144
(305) 267-4514

West Miami Animal Hospital
7443 Coral Way,
Miami, FL 33155
(305) 266-1825

Banfield Pet Hospital
9971 West Flagler St, B-150,
Miami, FL 33174
(305) 229-1017

Car Repair

Is your car slowing down or making any weird noises? Take it to an automotive center to have it inspected and repaired for a reasonable price.

Miami home inspection for sale by owner

Green's Garage
2221 SW 32nd Ave,
Miami, FL 33145
(305) 444-8881

Larry's Auto Service Center
1861 Bay Rd,
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-2770

79th Street Auto Center
830 NE 79th St,
Miami, FL 33138
(305) 756-6999

Miami Auto Care Center
14271 SW 120th #110,
Miami, FL 33186
(305) 385-9406

Once you look over the surrounding area, it becomes easier to see what day-to-day life will be like once you move in. You should also look at the immediate area around any Miami apartment or condo for rent to see any convenient locations nearby. You should also see if the home has the level of privacy that you would like to see in your apartment or condo.

A Miami apartment or condo can provide a full range of amenities and styles depending on its location. This could be both good and bad depending on what you are looking for in a home and what you can expect from neighbors. Look into amenities nearby like pools, gyms, spas, bars, or restaurants. There is a big difference between these locations being nearby or being a part of the area around your home.

The Home Itself

Miami sell your home for sale by owner

The style of the home itself will also change its feel and you should look for a Miami apartment or condo for rent by owner that suits your preferences. Are you more interested in high-rise or low-rise apartments? Do you prefer a home on the ground floor or are you fine living a few levels up?

You should also see what the apartment comes with in order to understand what you will need to bring yourself. Standard appliances in a Miami apartment or condo like the refrigerator, washer, dryer, or air conditioning get old and break down over time. You don’t want any technical issues happening while you’re living there.

Check out the dimensions of the apartment or condo as well. The landlord should provide you with its full layout. Ceiling height, square footage, and storage space all make for a different feel for any Miami apartment or condo for rent. You don’t want to waste money on additional space you’re never going to use. You are not going to want to feel cramped and suffocated either, especially when Miami is experiencing its famous heat.

You need to examine the different rooms and see if their locations, sizes, and numbers are up to your standards. This is especially important for porches, decks, bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchens if it is more than just you moving in. The general floor plan should be provided by the renter so you can acquaint yourself with the different aspects of the apartment or condo.

From here it becomes more about the minor things that may not seem important, but can quickly become a problem if not fixed. Consider the following:

  • Light switch functionality
  • Location of any electrical sockets
  • Plumbing and water pressure
  • How much natural light there is
  • 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?

Questions like these often come too late and at cost to you.

Searching for Miami Apartments or Condos for Rent

When you are searching for a Miami apartment or condo for rent then you should take the process seriously and follow through on each step carefully. Don't just pick one apartment and focus all your time on it. Compare a group of different apartments, find the best pricing, and move forward from there. Look into any open houses too, and explore the options available to better imagine yourself living in any of these apartments or condos.

Miami real estate market is as hot as the city during the summer and prone to rapid changes over time. You’ll need to work quickly, so try to focus on the most important questions to ask:

  1. Is the price of one Miami apartment or condo for rent comparable to the others?
  2. How long have the homes been on market? How quickly will it go under contract for lease?
  3. Is there a deadline?
  4. What were the previous owners like?
  5. How old was the apartment or condo?

Visit Miami Apartments or Condos

Your best move may be to actually visit Miami apartments or condos in order to see their quality for yourself. Private tours and open houses are available to walk you through different homes for rent. Contact the landlord and see what’s available before researching the home more in-depth.

When you visit make sure to take lots of notes and photos and be on the lookout for any problems like:

  • Noisy or rude neighbors
  • Condensation on the windows
  • Spotted surfaces
  • Uneven floors
  • Bad water pressure
  • Faulty locks
  • Any Holes

Don't be scared to ask the landlord any questions either:

  • What are the apartment or condo’s best qualities?
  • What repairs are needed?
  • How old is the building and its systems?
  • What are the systems throughout like?
  • What are the amenities?
  • What utilities are included?

Signing a Lease for Your Miami Apartment or Condo for Rent

A lease is a contract where the Miami apartment or condo is conveyed to you for a specific amount of time for payment. What that means is that you will sign an agreement where you are allowed to live in the apartment or condo in exchange for rent. The agreement may require a security deposit to ensure that the terms of the agreement are followed through.

From there you will need to read over and hash out the smaller points of your agreement. The term of lease, the rents due date, late fee costs, any discounts available, landlord rights, weather care, and lawn care are often negotiated topics. Be sure to look over the agreement and argue any points before you sign and don’t hesitate to negotiate. Ask for a copy of the agreement too, you may need it for later.

Moving In to Your Miami Apartment or Condo

So you found a Miami apartment or condo for rent by owner you liked and are now in the process of moving in. What now? The first thing to do is inspect the premises, maybe even have a professional do it for you. If any new problems are found, then you need to inform your landlord and discuss how to fix them. You’ll also need to purchase some renters' insurance, which will help you out in emergencies when you need it. After that’s all taken care off, all you need to do is fully move in and enjoy the fact that you're living in one of the most popular destinations in the world.

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