How To Find an Apartment

Here's How:

1. How long will you live in this space?
   
   This question will determine what kind of apartment you need. Most leases require at least one year's commitment, so if this is too long for you, consider a sublet or a month-to-month lease.
   
   
2. Decide whether or not you want roommates.
   
   Whether or not you want a roommate will determine how you find an apartment. Before deciding, you may want to research the cost of rent in the area. Living with a roommate is much cheaper than living alone, and it's good to know now what you can afford.
   
   
3. Find a compatible roommate.
   
   Ask your friends if they know of anyone who is looking for a roommate or apartment.
   
   If they don't know anyone, then the best method is to find an apartment by finding a person with a spare room. Online roommate listings typically list these kind of postings.
   
   
4. Determine your living needs and the maximum amount of rent you can afford.
   
   Avoid renter's remorse by nailing down how much space you need and how much you can afford.
   
   
5. Research neighborhoods and determine where you want to live.
   
   Where do you want to live? Do you want a kid-friendly neighborhood? One with many young people? Explore different neighborhoods to get a feel for the atmosphere. Go to work from there and see what the commute feels like.
   
   Also confirm whether you can afford the apartments in the area. One way is to read classified ads or go online to an apartment listings site and review the range of rent being listed.
   
   
6. Find out how early you need to start answering ads.
   
   Ask locals, family members, or brokers when to begin answering listings. The market differs from city to city. In some areas you can begin looking a month or two before you need the place, while in other areas you must be ready to move in within 2-3 weeks.
   
   
7. Make sure you have enough money in your bank account.
   
   If you're new to the city, open the account before you find an apartment. Landlords often require first month's rent and security deposit to be paid with a certified check, money order, or other cash equivalent.
   
   
8. Let everyone know that you want to find an apartment.
   
   You may get leads, tips, insider information, or referrals.
   
   
9. Read the classified ads in the local newspaper.
   
   Before you do, brush up on apartment acronyms and abbreviations.
   
   
10. Look at online listings.
    
    Websites are a valuable resource, because they are frequently updated.
    
    
11. Consider using brokers.
    
    In some areas, you may not need one, but in larger cities, brokers control the market, and may be the only way to find an apartment.
    
    
12. Contact the property manager of specific buildings.
    
    If you have interest in a particular complex, inquire directly about any available rooms.
    
    
13. Bring all necessary materials, when viewing available units.
    
    In some cities, apartment units can be snatched up in one day. Always be prepared to submit your application or sign the lease the same day. Bring:
    • your checkbook
    • your credit report
    • letter of reference from a previous landlord or their contact information
    • camera and notebook
14. Sign the Lease.
    
    Once you've found the apartment you love, you are now ready to begin the process to signing the lease. Read up on how to sign the lease to avoid any errors or regrets.

Tips:

1. Make sure to open your bank account at least two weeks before you need the certified checks. Personal checks often take a few days to clear, and until then, you will not be able to access your money.
2. Always use more than one method to find an apartment--online, newspaper, referrals--because each one yields different results.