By
eHow Personal Finance Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Area Maps
- Classified Ads
- Newspaper
Step1
Know that common abbreviations in classified rental ads include WIC (walk-in closet), F/P (fireplace), W/D (washer-dryer hookups) and EIK (eat-in kitchen).
Step2
Know that common terms in classified rental ads include walk-up (a multistory building without an elevator), studio (a combination living room and bedroom) and cozy (a descriptive term that usually means small, rather than snug).
Step3
Know the definitions of rental leasing terms in classified ads, such as month-to-month lease, lease-option or lease-purchase.
Step4
Determine the specific features that you desire in a rental unit - such as pool facilities, washer-dryer hookups or a month-to-month lease - and take note of the classified ads that mention such features.
Step5
Check the classified rental ads for the date of availability, amount of security deposit, and application procedures.
Step6
After reviewing the classified rental ad, compile a list of unanswered questions to ask the owner of the rental property.