How to Find a Rental Through a Finder Service or Leasing Agent

Find a rental by using the free services of an apartment-locator or leasing agent.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Area Maps
• Internet Access
• Real Estate Agents
• Notebook Papers
• Pens
• Computers
• Pens

1. Ask business associates, friends or family members for references of apartment-locators or real estate leasing agents who offer their services at no charge, or conduct an Internet search to find an apartment-locator or leasing agent in your desired location.

2. Make a list of the features you desire in a rental, including a cost range, size, location and preferred amenities such as pool facilities or pets-allowed policies.

3. Submit your written list of preferred features to a finder service or leasing agent and ask to receive a list of properties that meet your requirements with available photos via fax or e-mail.

4. Call prospective properties on the list to ask about availability of rental units during your desired move time; make appointments to tour selected properties.

5. Visit the rental properties on the list and make a selection.

6. Inform the landlord that the apartment-locator service or leasing agent referred you to the property.

Tips & Warnings

• Most finder services and leasing agents provide their services to prospective renters at no charge, earning commissions from landlords.
• Although leasing agents may show prospective rental properties to you, most apartment-finder services simply provide you with a list of properties that meet your preferences, leaving you to view the properties on your own.

on 11/22/2005 Some "free" rental agents charge you the cost of getting your credit report, and you're not even guaranteed that they will find you a rental. Get your own free report or find another agent. There are plenty out there who don't pass this cost on to you.