Birmingham: Then and Now

Steel drives a lot of things in economics, and advances in steel making were, in fact, one of the main forces behind the Industrial Revolution in the U.S. Birmingham's steel industry in the early 1900s fueled its economy at the time, and rivaled that of Steel Town itself: Pittsburgh. This gave birth to Birmingham's moniker as the "Pittsburgh of the South."

From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, Birmingham grew as a manufacturing hub. Its proximity to deposits of iron ore, coal, and limestone spawned factories dishing out quality steel, and skyscrapers housing businesses and homes for workers. Those booming years also saw Birmingham absorbing surrounding towns like Elyton.

Useful Tips When Searching for Apartments for Rent

Moving from one city to another because of job relocation or, perhaps, personal reasons can be challenging. Not only do you need to get accustomed to changes in your schedule, or even your lifestyle, you also have to find a good place to live in. Apartments for rent are one of the most appealing options, especially if you are going to stay in the area temporarily.

So how do you pick a good one amidst the hundreds of vacancies? Here are some useful tips that will guide you toward the best choice out there.

What to Look Out for When Apartment Hunting

Looking for an apartment can be a daunting task, especially if you aren’t sure what you should be looking for and what you should stay away from. Not all apartments are the same, not even those in the same building, so see to it that you’re always on the lookout for things like:

Floor Condition

If you want to find out if a particular apartment is in excellent condition, check the floors. Signs like worn carpeting, stained flooring, or creaking floors could be a bad deal for you, unless you want to spend extra in renovating the place throughout your stay. Make sure that the floor is clean, tidy, and well-maintained in every room.

Windows

There are quite a few things that need checking up on when it comes to windows. Start with the one that you will notice the most: the view. Are you comfortable with how your windows are aligned, and will enough natural light be able to shine through it? Now check the function. How easy are they to open and close?

Utility

If your prospective apartment already has power, try turning on the lights one after the other, and take note of any faulty wires or connections. The AC or heater thermostat should also be inspected for any possible problems that you’ll have to deal with eventually. You should also check if there are adequate safety equipment (e.g. fire extinguishers, sprinklers, emergency lights etc.) inside.