Moving isn't easy but your apartment search will be with AptExpert.com 

• All Required Fees and Security Deposits Paid, Pet Deposits/Fees Paid, Confirm Date to Pick Up Keys
  
• Change of Address forms filed with your postmaster
  
• Electricity provider scheduled for set up, cable and internet provider scheduled for installation or transfer box yourself, renter liability/insurance policy 
  
• Temporary pet accommodations if needed; food and water bowls, food, pet meds, crates, leash, harness, toys, blankies, treats
  
• Parking Permits/stickers, Gate Card, Key Fob or door keys, signed copy of new Lease Agreement  
  
• Pool Pass or Key fob, mailbox key (Don't forget to return these to prior landlord or you'll likely be charged for them) 
  
• Security cards and codes for community amenities
  
• Moving Company Confirmation and Checklist - OR if you're moving yourself: Rental truck reserved w/deposit, confirm pick up hours, and drop off location, hours
• Moving Supplies (boxes, tape, blankets, packing materials)
• Return all keys and gate cards; schedule walk-through with the prior landlord if possible; take pictures; keep lease documents  

Self Storage - There are many storage​ companies throughout the area, this is one that I have worked with.

Storage Choice, 14640-B Hwy 3, Webster, Tx 77598 See Website at https://storagechoice.com/texas-storage-locations/webster/14640-b-hwy.-3/ 

Apartment parking accommodations vary from property to property. The Houston apartment hunter can expect to find one of the following types of parking situations at every apartment property in Greater Houston. 

Be sure to ask how many parking spaces you're allowed!

The number of parking spaces will be specified in the terms of the lease but it's best to ask upfront if you own more than one vehicle. Even the highest quality apartments may have limited parking especially when the property is at a high occupancy and most are. There may be additional parking spaces available for a fee. Some properties charge for parking even on open, unassigned parking.

Exposed, surface parking is standard with most communities, some offer carports on a first come first serve basis or assigned carports for an additional fee, some also offer detached garages for an additional fee. Many newer built properties, mid-rise and high-rise offer community parking garages. Select communities have private detached or attached​ garages included in your rental price.  

Guest Parking

Ask where your guests should park! Many apartment properties have a limited number of guest parking spaces. Parking in a non-guest space can result in unauthorized vehicles being towed at the vehicle owner's expense.   

If you expect many visitors, check out the guest parking situation before you sign the lease.

The majority of Houston apartment properties feature swimming pools 

Pool Safety

Pool safety practices are common sense and rules are posted. 

Very few, if any Houston apartments provide pool lifeguards. Residents use apartment pools, at their own risk.

Apartments with pools require an adult resident to be present at the pool, with the child or children for their safety, same rule for apartments with hot tubs. 

Here are some things to think about before you decide on the ideal apartment: 

Security is a cooperative effort. No matter what type of security effort an apartment landlord or community management company makes,  the apartment communal environment dictates that all residents share in the responsibility for effective security and safety. A helpful idea is to get to know your neighbors through social events or community activities, at the amenities, and even while walking your dog. No community can guarantee your safety. 

Report Suspicious Persons

Tailgating is the most common form of unauthorized entry into apartment property grounds. When entering and exiting at controlled portals, be aware of unfamiliar or suspicious situations. Report any suspicious activity to the property security office, when in doubt call 911 for emergency concerns and situations.

Safety vs. Convenience

Many communities offer electronic digital keypads or limited access gates, exits, gated pedestrian entrances and perimeter fencing. While these are an added benefit, it's not a guarantee of safety. Limited access gates break and or become damaged, and it happens more frequently than you may expect. They can also be down for repair for extended times in different circumstances. People often follow other vehicles into the gate. It's recommended to be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye out - no property owner or management company can guarantee your personal safety.  Don't give out your gate code. 

Key Fobs and Smart Home Technology

Select communities offer key fob entry mechanisms or smart locks for entry, mostly in new construction, mid-rise and high-rise properties. Smart Home technology has quickly become a sought after amenity with apartment owners and developers building them into new luxury communities all throughout the Houston, Texas metroplex.     

Check Out the Neighborhood

The neighborhood surrounding an apartment community should be a primary factor of consideration for your apartment search. You can check crime statistics for the apartment community or area you're considering by contacting the local police department whether it's a local police storefront or Houston Police Department, or the various police departments that serve the city, town or neighborhood you're interested in. That is honestly the most reliable source for the latest information.