Learn how to look for an apartment, whether in the same town or another state. Consider the timing of your move.

When apartment hunting, minimize the stress by being organized and sharpening your focus. Knowing what you're looking for will make the search much easier. Think about security: the building's and your own.

Every apartment comes with a matching landlord. You can't have one without the other. Learn what to look for when you check out an apartment, how to present yourself to a prospective landlord, and what documentation to have with you.

Whatever kind of rental arrangement you choose, you need to get it in writing, to delineate not only your rights and responsibilities, but those of your landlord as well. Failure to put the terms of the agreement in writing invites trouble.

While we don't get to choose our parents or our siblings, we do get to choose our roommates. Choose wisely.