The Apartment Hunt Playbook: Lessons from the NFL Draft
It’s happening, Pittsburgh! We’ve been talking about it for more than a year, and the NFL Draft is taking place in our city now. Until April 25th, 257 picks over seven rounds will go through the Draft. Coaches and team executives from across the NFL will select top talent, and you’ll be able to watch this exciting process unfold on ESPN, NFL Network, and ABC.
Celebrities like Kane Brown, Bret Michaels, and Wiz Khalifa will be in town to headline the Draft, and the event itself is expected to bring in between 500,000 and 800,000 people; that’s around 100,000 to 200,000 people per day. The North Shore and Downtown will see the most visitors, but there’s a chance we’ll all get to meet some new people, thanks to this fun, once-a-year event!
The NFL Draft has us thinking about how similar it is to something near and dear to our hearts…apartment hunting.
We know what you’re thinking – Lobos always has apartments on the brain – but hear us out! Below are some of the parallels between the Draft and finding an apartment, both of which are processes that involve attention to detail, perseverance, and more.
Your “Big Board” Is Your Apartment List
Just like how teams rank their prospects, you’re ranking apartments. You’ve got your top picks, your “maybe if nothing else pans out,” and the ones you pretend you’re not interested in, but keep pulling up the listing to look at anyway.
Combine vs. Tours
NFL prospects compete in the intense Combine to show off their skills. Apartments have a similar process: tours are where units show off their “stats.” And by stats, we mean closet space, new flooring, natural light, and more. Some apartments might look great online but underwhelm in person and vice versa. Others may have a plain appearance in ads but really impress when you see them in person.
Needs vs. Best Available
Teams debate whether they should draft the best player or fill a need. You’re doing essentially the same thing. Should you go for the gorgeous place that’s over budget, or the practical one that meets your needs? The truth, we’ve found, usually lands somewhere in the middle.
Draft Steals Are Hidden Gems
Remember when Tom Brady didn’t stand out at the Combine, was drafted in the sixth round, and then became one of the best quarterbacks of all time (sorry, Steelers fans, but you can’t say he isn’t at least top ten)? Every draft has its sleepers. Apartment hunting does too: underrated units that might not have a lot of flair but offer plenty of charm. For example, the kitchen may be classic, but the location is unbeatable.
Budget = Salary Cap
NFL teams have a cap, while you’ve got rent limits. No matter how much you love an apartment, if it far surpasses your budget, it’s not going to make your roster. That’s why Lobos prides itself on offering affordable luxury.
Competition Is Real
You might have heard this from us on the phone or during tours: you aren’t the only one “drafting,” or apartment hunting. Other renters are submitting applications and touring daily. Hesitate too long, and your top choice could be gone.
Final Pick Is Your Commitment
Once a team drafts a player, they’re invested. Signing a lease is the same deal. You’re locked in, which is why giving careful thought to your decision should always be a top priority. That’s also why we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. This is your home, and you should feel confident in your choice.
Post-Draft Analysis = Move-In Reality
After the draft, everyone grades their picks. After move-in, you’re doing your own review and asking yourself if you made the right choice.
Hopefully, you landed a Pro Bowler!