How to Find an Apartment Online

It is very easy to find an apartment online. In fact, the Internet is the best place to start when you are looking for apartments. However, you will need to do some serious research once you have narrowed your choices.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Search for apartments in the area that you hope to live. You can use the search term "apartments city name state name" if you wish, or you can use an online service. For example, if you want to live in Athens, Georgia then your search term would be "apartments athens ga" without any punctuation. This should provide a good start. You will see both official websites, review sites and apartment selection service websites in your result. Generally, the services do not provide the best information, because they are not regularly updated. Often they list floorplans, rent and even apartment complexes that no longer exist.

2. Narrow your search. As you look through the search results, note complexes that you find particularly attractive. You should make a list of these on a piece of notebook paper. Skip several lines in between each one for additional notes. Another way to narrow your search is to eliminate anything that does not have certain amenities that you find vitally important. For example, you may want to have a pool and a fitness center or need to be near a bus stop or train station.

3. Read reviews. Once you have narrowed down your search, it is time to read reviews. You can find them by searching the term "apartment name reviews" or on many apartment finder services. While the practical information on these sites is not always particularly good, the reviews are often very telling. Make a note on your sheet of anything particularly good or bad. For example, if many people have lived in the same complex for multiple years that is a good sign. Bug infestations and high crime rates are generally a deal breaker.

4. Read the local police blotter. You can usually find this online as well in most papers. If a potential apartment complex is highly visible in the police blotter then it is probably not a good place to live.

5. Contact the apartments. Once you have narrowed your choices call all of your options to find out about specials, discounts, application fees and other items of interest. Even if you see information about these things online, verify the facts with a leasing agent to be certain.

6. Decide what apartments to visit. Never make an apartment selection without viewing the property first. It is better to stay in a hotel for a few days than to get trapped for an entire year in an unsuitable living arrangement. Pick the best of your "short list" and visit them in person before you sign a lease.

[Robertgong]

on 12/10/2008 Very useful information! Thank you!