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Dec 2, 2025|Apartments

How Far in Advance Should I Look for an Apartment?

So, you’re a first-time renter searching for your dream apartment, or you’re a student preparing for the upcoming semester, or you landed a new job in a different city and need to relocate. Whatever the case, you may be wondering: “When should I start looking for an apartment?”

The short answer is to start apartment hunting 60 to 90 days before your desired move-in date. The exact timing depends on the market, the season, and your specific needs, but two to three months in advance works well for most renters.

Woman ready to move, holding luggage while planning an apartment search in Lansing, MI

Why Start the Search Ahead of Time?

When renters ask, “When should I start looking for an apartment?” the real question should be, “How much breathing room do I want?” Starting early gives you time to:

  • Compare listings online
  • Tour your favorites in person
  • Ask questions about utilities, parking, and policies
  • Lock in a lease without feeling rushed

The benefits of applying early go beyond peace of mind. When you submit apartment applications early, you can:

  • Grab popular floor plans before they disappear.
  • Give the leasing team time to process your application and verify income and references.
  • Leave room for minor delays, such as waiting for a reference to respond or for income verification to clear.

Most communities will hold an apartment for a short period after your application is approved, typically 7 to 14 days, with a holding fee. You then have a brief window, perhaps 48 to 72 hours, to sign the lease. These timelines move fast if you start the process late. Begin early to keep your stress level down.

Ideal Seasons for Apartment Hunting

If you have flexibility, time your search by season. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Summer (May through September) is the busiest time of year. There are plenty of listings, but they go fast. Start 60 to 90 days out for the best choices.
  • Fall (October through November) is when things slow down. You might not see as many listings, but competition eases. How far in advance should you look for an apartment in the fall? You might get away with 6 to 8 weeks ahead.
  • Winter (December through February) is the slow season. After all, fewer people want to move in the winter, especially in Michigan. You may find more flexible scheduling and move-in dates this time of year.
  • Spring (March through April) is when availability picks back up. If you want a late-spring move, start the process about 60 days out to stay ahead of rising demand.

A Simple Timeline for Your Move

Here’s a typical timeline to help you understand when to start apartment hunting:

  • 10 to 12 weeks before moving: Set your budget, research neighborhoods, and list your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Look into commuting times, parking options, pet policies, and which utilities are included.
  • 8 to 10 weeks before moving: Tour your favorite properties in person or virtually.
  • 6 to 8 weeks before moving: Submit applications to your top one or two choices. Be prepared to provide documents and pay a small fee. If neither approves, you still have time to regroup and apply elsewhere.
  • 4 weeks before moving: Sign your lease, confirm your move-in date, and schedule movers or rent a truck. If you’re ending an existing lease, notify your current landlord.
  • 2 weeks before moving: Change your address, set up or transfer utilities and internet, and take time off work for moving day.

Practical Apartment Hunting Tips

With your timeline in place for when you should start looking for an apartment, the next step is to follow practical apartment hunting tips. Use these suggestions to stay organized and confident during your search:

  • Set a complete budget: Besides rent, you may be responsible for utilities, pet fees, parking, and renter’s insurance.
  • Collect documents early: Keep pay stubs, your ID, and references ready to speed up each application.
  • Define must-haves: Decide what you can’t live without, such as in-building laundry, included utilities, or covered parking.
  • Tour in person when possible: Photos and videos are better than nothing, but you’ll only pick up on the conditions in hallways, parking lots, and common areas if you visit in person.
  • Ask about maintenance: See if you like what you hear about response times and request processes.
  • Review pet policies: If you have a dog, confirm breed rules, monthly fees, and pet-friendly amenities.
  • Take notes: Jot down your impressions, pros and cons, and questions so it’s easy to compare communities later without mixing them up.

Find Your Next Home with Westbay Management

Now that you know how early you should look for an apartment before moving, you may be ready to begin the hunt. Westbay Management invites you to explore our apartment communities in Lansing and Jackson, MI, with inviting one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Our residents enjoy affordable pricing, well-maintained buildings and grounds, and a pet-friendly environment. Amenities include covered on-site parking, private balconies, full kitchens, convenient laundry facilities, and responsive emergency maintenance service. Schedule a tour today, and see which community feels like home!

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