It’s so easy these days to find listings and visit apartments. But don’t let your eagerness get the better of you. Be prepared by taking a moment to determine exactly what you’re looking for in an apartment.

Once you know what you want in an apartment, you’ve got to take into consideration what you can actually afford. This will give you the confidence to know when you’ve found the right apartment, and it will also help you avoid the disappointment that comes with finding attractive apartments that are out of your range.

For many apartment hunters, the actual apartment hunt is the fun part. Armed with information about what you want and what you can afford, your job now is to go out there and find the right apartment — as quickly and as efficiently as you can. Unfortunately, some people encounter discrimination just about every time they look for apartments.

Others who are used to smooth sailing are shocked to discover that they’ve become the victim of illegal discrimination. Fair housing laws protect renters and apartment hunters alike from certain types of discrimination. It’s smart to know your rights and keep them in mind as you look for your new home.