How to Find an Apartment in New York City

Whether you are moving to New York City for the first time or moving out of your old neighborhood, finding an apartment can be a real hassle. Fear of scam artists, slumlords, noisy neighbors and broker fees can dampen anyone’s spirit! Don’t worry about a thing, have no fear! The article below will provide tips on finding an apartment in New York City.

Things You'll Need

• Patience
• <br>At least the minimum of the first month’s rent and security deposit.
• <br>A keen eye for cracks in the walls and leaky plumbing.
• <br>A sense of humor.

Instructions

How to Find an Apartment in New York City

1. Ask around.<br>Searching for an apartment is a pivotal moment for anyone, especially a New Yorker. Ask the people closest to you for their input. Find out the name and phone number of their super or rental management offices. Go a step further and ask if they know of a neighbor who may be moving out or getting evicted. This could be your ticket into finding an apartment that is in a decent neighborhood.

2. Prepare yourself for hidden or unexpected fees.<br>There is no need to blindly go into your apartment search. Expect broker fees, security deposits, finder’s fees and a possible first and last month’s rent.

3. Exhaust your internet search. <br>There are several well-known websites that can help you find an apartment in your price range. Exhaust the possibilities. Try checking online in the morning, midday and evening. Landlords and realtors post new rentals periodically throughout the day.

4. Stop by the apartment buildings that interest you.<br>Ring the bell of the super. A lot of time buildings have signs posting vacancies. There may also be a management company on premises or down the street.

5. Try the newspaper.<br>Saturday and Sunday newspapers are a great resource for finding an apartment in New York City. There are an abundance of local borough newspapers that can help you on your search.

Tips & Warnings

• Always remember to set up a viewing of an apartment as soon as possible. Apartments go quick. Even in the slummiest neighborhoods!

• <br>There is no harm in taking a friend with you to scout out a new place. It is actually a very safe way to find an apartment in New York City.

• Never ever meet your possible landlord or super at a shady location. In other words, if they say, “Meet me at the corner or at a deli,” run for the hills! It may be a serious scam!

• <br>Go with your gut feeling. If you do not like the neighborhood, or you do not like the landlord's attitude chances are you will not be happy in the long run.