Moving to a new apartment can seem like a major upheaval in your life, especially if you have been in the same place for a while. However, it can also be a good time to evaluate your needs and wants to make sure your new home lines up with those priorities. Here are nine features you should consider when searching for a new apartment.

1. Storage Space

While there are apartments that are bigger than most single-family houses, most tend to be smaller and designed to maximize the number of units in a building. That can push storage space to an afterthought. Don't make the mistake of falling in love with a floorplan without considering closet space. It doesn't hurt to also ask about the availability of on-site storage units, which could alleviate cramping if you are downsizing. 

2. Safety Features

Take a look around at safety features during your visits. Test the smoke detectors in the unit to see if they work. It's a good idea to look for emergency exits, fire extinguishers and fire doors on interior stairwells, all of which should be in good repair. 

Safety goes beyond fires, though. There should be adequate lighting in indoor and outdoor areas. Restricted property access and an onsite security person are even more reassuring.  

3. Recreational Amenities

Many newer apartment complexes have a full suite of recreational amenities from fitness centers to pools to firepits for social gatherings. Check out what is there, especially if the rent is going to stretch your budget. When you figure in how much you'll save on gyms fees and pool cost, it may seem more affordable. 

4. Laundry Facilities

Unless you love going to the laundromat every week, you'll want to check this out right away. See if there are hookups in each unit. If not, ask about on-site laundry facilities and their costs. 

5. Social Areas

getting to know new neighbors can be a challenge. However, ample social areas and planned activities help to make it much easier. Ask about what types of activities happen regularly around the complex and how they are organized to get an idea of what will be going on. 

6. Natural Light

It's always nice to have lots of light fixtures available, but you want to get some natural light too. Apartments in basements or with limited outdoor wall space can seem dark and dreary. If you are visiting during the day, turn the lights off and see what the rooms look like naturally. 

7. Pet Policies

Do yourself a favor and find out ahead of time what the complex's pet policies are. Even if you don't have a pet, it is still a good idea to know the building policies. For example, if you have a severe dog or cat allergy, it might not be a good idea to move into a complex that allows multiple pets per unit. 

8. Proximity to Work or School

No matter how much you love an apartment or complex, a long or difficult daily commute will make that shininess wear off quickly. Distance isn't the only consideration, either. If you drive, check ease of access to major roadways you will use regularly. If you take mass transit, you'll want to look at the nearness of bus stops or train stations. 

9. Ease of Parking

For car owners, you want to ensure that there is ample parking for you and any regular visitors. One spot may seem like enough on paper, but friends will quickly tire of trying to find a suitable place to park when they drop in. It's also a good idea to ensure the parking spaces are relatively close to the building entrance. That will make a big difference in bad weather or when you are loaded down with groceries.

When you are shopping for a new apartment, don't settle for the first place you see. Check out safety features, laundry facilities and social activities at the complex. It helps to also consider the availability of parking and how the move will affect your daily commute.