How to Understand and Use Rental Classified Advertisements

Before you launch a search for the perfect place to rent, understand the terms in classified rental ads.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Area Maps
• Classified Ads
• Newspaper

1. 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).
2. 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).
3. Know the definitions of rental leasing terms in classified ads, such as month-to-month lease, lease-option or lease-purchase.
4. 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.
5. Check the classified rental ads for the date of availability, amount of security deposit, and application procedures.
6. After reviewing the classified rental ad, compile a list of unanswered questions to ask the owner of the rental property.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact rental managers or owners by phone and ask pertinent questions about features not mentioned in classified ads before you make appointments to tour properties.
• Be aware that classified rental ads often emphasize the good points of a rental unit while ignoring undesirable features.