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Step 1
Choose your neighborhoods carefully. Use the Internet to check the reputation of different areas of the city. Look at crime reports for your area as well as the reputation of the public schools (even if you never plan to use the schools). Better schools and lower crime rates will mean that the neighborhood is more desirable and safe.
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Step 2
Choose your landlord carefully. Make sure you choose a landlord who is easy to get along with and who communicates well. Take note of whether or not they answer phone calls and how long it takes them to get back to you. Ask them how they handle emergency and late-night calls. Speak to other tenants to find out if they are responsive, and if they make repairs on a timely basis.
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Step 3
Look for rental apartments that offer amenities like a workout room or a pool and recreation area. Make sure your actual apartment is comfortable as well by checking the windows and doors for signs of drafts to make sure your home will be warm and comfortable.
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Step 4
Check your prospective apartments for safety and health issues. Look in cabinets and under sinks for signs of moisture, mold and pests. Look up at the apartment ceilings to ensure that there are no plumbing problems that will cause you distress and affect your health and enjoyment of the apartment.
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Step 5
Compare prices of apartments. Take a good look at the price patterns in each area. Avoid renting the cheapest apartment you can find, or at least find out why it is so cheap. Chances are the landlord has lowered the price because it is not up to par in some way. Remember, if an apartment seems too good to be true, chances are it is.
