So your child wants to join us Bostonians?

So your child wants to join us Bostonians?
By Cornerstone Real Estate

So the time has come for your baby to leave the nest. Boston is a big city, but they have their heart set on living there. It can be hard to let go, especially when you don't know how to help.
Below are 8 tips for helping your child find a Boston apartment you'll both feel good about!
1. Research the neighborhood:
Seems like a no-brainer but it's crucial that you sit down and do this together so you can discuss the high and low points of the neighborhood.

2. Check the 311:
Here you can see all of the complaints for the location you're considering and what they were regarding. This information may help you cross a few options off the list immediately.

3. Express practicality:
Before physically going to look at apartments sit down together, review their finances, and create a reasonable budget. This will help your broker find your child that perfect place as quickly as possible!

4. Look into apartments seeking roommates:
Though your child may want their own place, sometimes the best thing to do is to look at shared apartments. Having a roommate may actually alleviate those homesick moments and it's more than likely the most cost effective way to go.

5. Check for rental cycles:
Some neighborhoods, especially those close to schools, have a surplus of available rentals during certain months. You can certainly rely on your broker for guidance here – They'll know the ins and outs no matter the month!

6. Keep in mind how far away the transit line (known locally as the T) is:
This may be something that your child doesn't remember to think about, yet sometimes the T is the only way to get where they need to go - especially if they have an internship or job in the heart of the city. Also, there are student discounts for monthly passes!

7. Map out where their favorite grocery store is in relation to the apartment:
Knowing this will help your child feel well prepared to live in this new space, plus it will serve as a good reference point in figuring out the lay of the land.

8. Be prepared to co-sign for your child:
These days you have to make a salary of about 40 times the monthly rent and for a college student or recent grad that's just not realistic. This process typically includes a credit check and having a co-signer document notarized. At Cornerstone Real Estate, we make it even easier by having an in-office notary!