Are you tired of feeling like you’re pouring all your hard-earned cash into your rent? Do you long for a cozy apartment that won’t break the bank? Nashville, with its ever-booming growth, presents a unique challenge when it comes to hunting for an apartment. But worry not, as today we’ll be exploring how to find great apartments in Nashville under $800/month.
Housing Crisis in Nashville? No Problem!
Nashville has been growing rapidly in recent years, with the city’s population increasing by 100,000 over the past decade. As a result, Nashville has always had a high cost of living, and this extends to rent prices as well. However, with a little effort and a few tips and tricks, you can find the perfect place to rent within your budget.
So how do you find the right apartment for you?
Where to Begin Your Search
When looking for affordable apartments, searching online is always the best place to start. There are several websites such as ApartmentList.com, Zillow, and apartments.com where you can search for available listings in your budget. You can filter your search by neighborhoods, amenities, and price range to find the apartment that suits you.
Another way to find a low-cost apartment is to drive around the neighborhood that you’re interested in living in. Keep an eye open for “For Rent” signs on the front of houses or apartment buildings. You might be able to find unique listings that aren’t available online, which could be a plus in a city where apartments get snatched up fast.
Explore Neighborhoods Outside the City Center
It’s no secret that rent is usually higher in Downtown Nashville, and trendy neighborhoods such as East Nashville, The Gulch, and 12 South. But don’t forget that Nashville has surrounding neighborhoods that are just as charming and affordable to live in. You’ll find that rent prices drop the further out you go.
Some of these neighborhoods include:
- Antioch
- Hermitage
- La Vergne
- Madison
- Smyrna
- Donelson
Keep in mind that these neighborhoods may not have the same nightlife or trendy restaurants and bars as their downtown counterparts. However, these affordable neighborhoods have their own unique charm that makes them worth considering.
Consider Roommates
Another way to save money on rent is to split it with a roommate. You’ll find that many other people in Nashville are likely in the same boat as you, looking for an affordable place to live. You can turn to websites like roomie-match.com, Craigslist, or even Facebook groups to find someone whom you can split bills and rent with.
If you’re unsure about sharing your space with a total stranger, don’t worry. With the right communication, you can find a great roommate match. This way, you’ll have someone to share living expenses with and the added bonus of a built-in friend to come home to every day.
Look for Rental Incentives
A lot of apartments have incentives to entice people to move in. These can include move-in specials, which might include a month or two of free rent, reduced security deposits, or waived administration fees. These incentives are particularly useful if you’re on a tight budget and looking to save money when moving into your new home.
Amenities vs. Rent Price
When apartment hunting, it’s important to balance your needs and wants with your budget. Choose which amenities you can’t live without and which ones you can forego to save some money.
For example, amenities like a fitness center and a sparkling pool might make your apartment feel more luxurious, but they also come at a higher price. Consider what is most important to you and make sure that the cost of those amenities falls within your budget.
Room for Negotiation
Always negotiate if you are able to. Some landlords might be willing to lower the rent for an apartment that has been on the market for a while or waive fees like the credit check fee. When negotiating, be confident and always mention why you think you deserve a lower price. Make yourself an irresistible candidate by mentioning your good credit history and your job stability to make landlords recognize your value as a tenant.
Highlighted Apartments Below $800 in Nashville
To make your search process more effortless and joyful, here’s a table that highlights apartments in Nashville that are under $800 a month:
| Apartment Complex | Neighborhood | Number of Units Available |
|---|---|---|
| Hickory Trace Apartments | Antioch | 3 Units Available |
| The Meadows on Lea Avenue | Madison | 4 Units Available |
| Hickory Pointe Apartments | Donelson | 2 Units Available |
| The Park at Hermitage | Hermitage | 5 Units Available |
| Bell Brookfield | Madison | 3 Units Available |
Conclusion
There’s no need to fret if you’re relocating without a fortune. With a little bit of research and some time and determination, you can find a great apartment in Nashville that meets your budget. Remember to filter your search by neighborhood, consider roommates, look for incentives, and tune your negotiation skills when talking to your potential landlord.
Nashville has something for everyone, and that extends to affordable housing too. Now that you have a few tips to expand your search and a list of already filtered affordable apartments to look into, you’ll be singing a happier tune in no time.
References:
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/alyyale/2019/06/07/the-best-cities-for-rent-growth-and-where-to-avoid/?sh=974f75b5c72f
- https://www.rentcafe.com/average-rent-market-trends/us/tn/nashville/
- https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-negotiate-an-apartment-lease-by-asking-for-these-items/