For context, I will be getting out in roughly a year. I’ve already started the transition process and am looking to apply for colleges back in my home state.

My plan for now is to spend a couple months living with my family just so I can better reintegrate myself back home and not put too much stress on my finances. After around 4-6 months I’ll move out and start living on my own.

Right now there’s an apartment that I’m eyeballing that’s within my budget/allocated Military Housing Allowance. It’s a studio apartment and is nearby the university that I’m planning to attend. I’ve also tried taking into consideration local amenities like grocery stores and public transportation.

What else should I consider? Any tips and tricks with finding an apartment? When should I start reaching out to the land lord and actually start renting/leasing? Concerning my immediate living situation once I EAS, would it be better to have an apartment ready for me to move in or should I stick with my current plan for now?