How to rent apartment?
1. Preparation & Budgeting Before you look at a single listing, know what you can actually afford. The 30% Rule: A standard benchmark is to spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent. Upfront Costs: Be ready to pay the first month’s rent and a security deposit (usually equal to one month's rent). Hidden Fees: Factor in application fees ($20–$100), pet deposits, renters insurance ($10–$30/month), and utility setup fees. 2. The Search Use a mix of platforms to find the best deals: Top Apps: Zillow, Apartments. com, and Realtor. com are standard for the US. Local Leads: Check Facebook Marketplace or local community groups for "hidden gem" rentals by private landlords. The "Must-Haves": Filter by your non-negotiables (e. g., in-unit laundry, pet-friendly, or proximity to public transit). 3. Viewing & Inspecting Never sign a lease without seeing the unit—or at least having someone you trust do a video walkthrough. Check the...
