Smack dab in the center of the great state of Connecticut, just ten miles from capital city of Hartford, lies the charming little city of New Britain. New Britain features a wide range of rental properties. Are you ready to scour the market for your dream pad in “Hardware City?” Then stick with us, ladies and gents, because we have the answers to all the questions we know you’re just dying to ask about apartment life in central Connecticut …
What’s so special about New Britain, anyway?
Well, for one thing, the basketball maneuver of dribbling was invented in New Britain in the late 19th century. Before then, there were a lot of “traveling” calls in B-ball games, we suppose. Is that special enough for you? Yes, it is.
What about availability? Is there a good chance I’ll get stuck on a waiting list?
Probably not. Waiting lists are rare no matter what time of year you begin your apartment hunt. Leasers outnumber homeowners by about 12 percent in New Britain, and many complexes – which are readily available – offer more than 1000 square feet of living space (which is extremely rare for East Coast rentals) and feature amenities like private ponds, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Any other apartment hunting advice?
Arm yourself with the basics, including proof of income, banking info, identification, and a list of previous residences. If you have any dark skeletons in your renting history, you might need a co-signer to score your New Britain dream pad. Likewise, those without a job or a rental history will need a reputable co-signer to score a lease.
Also, if you’re new to the Eastern Seaboard, you should know that most New England cities, including New Britain, are characterized by well-established (pre-1970) and historic (pre-1940) neighborhoods. Hopefully, in other words, you appreciate an apartment with plenty of old-school character (less than one percent of all housing units in New Britain were built post-1995). Because older units often have some issues that newer ones don’t, be especially studious when completing your move-in checklist. Make sure the heating and cooling units function efficiently, the pipes, sinks, shower heads, and toilets don’t drip, run, or leak, and your appliances, light switches, and ceiling fans are up to par. Also, mark down even the most minor blemishes on your move-in checklist, as landlords will only refund your security deposit if you play nice with your new humble abode.
Is there anything to do for fun in New Britain?
New Britain’s tree-lined avenues are dotted with art, history, museums, theaters, performance art venues, golf courses, and 1200 acres of parks, helping make New Britain an attractive living locale. For night owls, meanwhile, bars, bars, and a few more bars can be found, while most of the outlying ‘burbs have dive bars at most corners as well.
Do I need my own set of wheels to bum around New Britain?
Not necessarily, but the easiest way to work, play, and just plain live conveniently is with your own car. The city bus system is extremely limited, so we definitely recommend bucking up for a gas guzzler of your own while living in New Britain.
One last thing: Which part of town should I live in?
To be sure whether or not a neighborhood is right for you, though, spend plenty of time there (during both day and night) to see if you’re comfortable with its ambiance.
So … can we get this show on the road and start scavenging for the perfect apartment, or what?
Absolutely. Happy hunting and best of luck!
