Depending on the size of the apartment building you're considering, it may or may not have an onsite manager. Different states have different stipulations regarding on site managers. It's always better to have a manager that lives on the property. That way if you have a problem, you can walk over to the manager's unit and knock on the door. Problems tend to get solved much quicker when your neighbor is the building manager. Before you rent an apartment, make sure you ask about who is your contact person in case there is a problem with your apartment and you need something fixed.

Other than an on site apartment manager, the next best thing is a handyman that resides on the premises. Only larger apartment buildings will have an on site maintenance staff, and usually they take care of minor problems only. Anything much bigger than a jammed garbage disposal and they will call a professional contractor to handle the problem.

Is the weather hot where you live? If so, a swimming pool and hot tub would be a nice amenity. However, if the pool is poorly maintained, it could be a detriment to your health. When considering an apartment complex that has an on site swimming pool, be sure to take a look at the pool and the condition of the water and the area immediately surrounding the pool. If the pool water is discolored or has algae growth, it probably means the pool is not maintained by a certified pool contractor. Ask the manager about the pool maintenance and service, specifially how often the pool is cleaned and whether or not it is maintained by a professional pool contractor.

One of the most convenient amenities an apartment complex can have is an on site laundry room. A few things to consider about a laundry room:

• Is it locked?
• How much does it cost to wash and how much to dry?
• Is there a quarter machine available?
• Is it clean inside the room?
• How many washers and dryers are available for use? If you're considering a very large aparmtent complex, there should be many washers and dryers available for use.

Depending on where in the city the apartment complex is located, parking may or may not be an issue. If the complex you are considering is anywhere near the downtown district or within a few blocks of any beach, then you will want to have assigned parking with your unit. Street side parking is never acceptable - you should have at least one assigned parking space with your apartment.

Not all neighborhoods are safe. And even the safe neighborhoods usually border directly with unsavory neighborhoods. In any case, it's always nice when there is on site security 24 hours a day. At the minimum, there should be a security company that patrols the property at least once per hour.