🎓🐾 What To Look For On Your New City Apartment Tour! (From a New Aggie Grad)
Moving to a brand-new city after walking the stage at Kyle Field is both exciting and intimidating. As a new Texas Aggie grad, I quickly learned that finding an apartment isn’t just about snapping pics of cool rooftop pools for Instagram—it’s about making sure your new home actually works for your daily life.
When I first started touring apartments in Houston and Dallas, I didn’t know what to focus on. I was starry-eyed at the fancy gyms and clubhouses, but after a couple of tours, I realized there are some non-negotiables every Aggie should check before signing that lease.
Here’s the insider checklist I wish I had on Day One 👇
🛠️ 1. Check the Basics Before the Flash
Don’t let the marble countertops distract you. Test the water pressure in the shower, flush the toilet, turn on the AC/heat, and make sure outlets are actually working. Nothing kills the Aggie spirit faster than weak Wi-Fi or an air conditioner that gives up in August.
🚗 2. Parking Is a Bigger Deal Than You Think
As a new grad, I thought, “Eh, parking’s just parking.” Wrong. In some complexes, guest parking is nonexistent, or you’ll pay crazy fees for covered spots. Ask about:
Reserved vs. open parking
Guest spots (because your Aggie friends will visit for game days!)
Security in garages or lots
🏙️ 3. Walk the Neighborhood—Not Just the Building
Apartment tours are designed to keep you inside. But the real test is stepping outside. Walk a block in each direction. Is the area safe? Are there grocery stores, coffee shops, or gyms nearby? Could you walk home at night comfortably? As a new Aggie trying to build a social life, proximity to safe, fun hangout spots is a game-changer.
🐶 4. Pet Policies (Even if You Don’t Have One Yet)
Trust me, life changes fast after graduation. Even if you don’t have a dog or cat now, you might want one later. Ask about:
Breed restrictions
Pet rent & deposits
Dog parks or green space
💸 5. The Hidden Costs
Tour guides will tell you the rent, but they won’t always mention the extras. Ask for a full fee sheet that covers:
Trash/pest control fees
Parking costs
Amenity fees
Water/electric averages
Your “$1,400 apartment” can quickly feel like $1,650 when those stack up.
🔑 6. Security and Noise Levels
Don’t be shy—ask about break-ins, fire alarms, and noise complaints. Also, step into the hallway and listen. Can you hear your future neighbor’s TV or music blasting? If so, imagine trying to sleep before that 8am Monday meeting.
🛋️ 7. Look at the Units You’ll Actually Get
Pro tip: the “model apartment” is staged like a Pottery Barn showroom. It may not match what’s available. Ask to see the exact unit—or at least one with the same layout/floor. Look for wear and tear, odors, or stains.
🗓️ Final Aggie Advice
Tour on a weekday and a weekend if you can. Weekdays show you how quiet the complex is while people are at work. Weekends reveal the real vibe—from pool parties to parking chaos.
👍 Wrap-Up
As a proud Aggie moving into city life, I learned that an apartment isn’t just about the rent or the granite countertops. It’s about whether it supports your new career, your Aggie friendships, and your day-to-day life without stress.
So when you’re out touring, don’t just ask, “Is this pretty?” Ask, “Will this work for the next chapter of my life?”
Whoop! Gig ’em, and good luck finding your perfect post-grad home. 🏡✨
👉 Fellow new grads, what was the #1 thing you wish you checked on your first apartment tour? Drop it in the comments so other Aggies can learn from your story!
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Aggies—find your perfect apartment in your new city for FREE with Howdy Apartments! We’ll guide you on the best areas, recommend the right places, and even set up your tours. 100% free and Aggie-focused.
👉 Sign up here: howdyapartments.com/start
📲 Call or text me anytime: Grant – 214-492-9791
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