It’s spacious, below-market price, and doesn’t require a background check—it’s the apartment of your dreams! But if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Here are some of the most common apartment rental scams, how they work, and how you can spot them before you sign a lease that turns your dream apartment into a waking nightmare. Read the rest of this entry »

Whether you’re hoping to move out of your dorm, upgrade your current space, or finally live roommate-free for the first time—the financial logistics of renting an apartment can be overwhelming. The good news is, you probably can afford an apartment as long as you know how to save. When you budget efficiently, the cost of an apartment becomes much more manageable. Read this step-by-step guide to saving up for apartment rent, and start your search today. Read the rest of this entry »

You’ve already spent your paycheck. You’ve almost drained your bank account. And now you’re worried about paying your rent, which is due in five days.

First, know that you’re not alone. Lots of people run into financial problems and can’t afford to pay their rent. Don’t be embarrassed.

Second, don’t freak out. There are ways to cope with this situation that can help you bounce back quickly. Here are six of them. Read the rest of this entry »

There are plenty of sad truths in life. To name a few: you have to pay taxes, your beloved dog won’t live forever, and your apartment rent will go up, not down. While it’s important to accept these facts, it’s equally as important to keep an eye out for things that seem unfair. For example, your landlord cannot raise the rent whenever they feel like it! Rent laws vary by state, but there are some general guidelines that can help you figure out if you’re dealing with an illegal rent increase. If your rent has recently increased or your landlord has announced that one is coming, you’ll want to read this. Read the rest of this entry »

“BRRR! It’s cold in here! There must be some Toros in the atmosphere!” Or maybe you just have some old apartment windows? Yes, we’re quoting Bring It On, but it is a fitting description of your drafty apartment. Plus, we’re just excited to share these creative ways you can lower your heating bill this winter without damaging your apartment. So now, bring it on! (The savings, that is). Read the rest of this entry »

Monthly rent: every renter pays it, and every renter hates it. However, if you want to keep a roof over your head, it’s an unavoidable expense. Sadly, rents have been soaring in areas all over the country, even outpacing home values. So, what can you do when it’s poised to go up? You might be surprised to find that your hands aren’t necessarily tied. Get tips to avoid a rental increase from your friends at ApartmentSearch! Read the rest of this entry »

With the possible exception of “crazy neighbors” and “rat infestation,” no two words strike more fear into the hearts of renters than “rent increase.” If you know or suspect an increase is coming, don’t wait for it to hit your bank account. Speak with your landlord. Make it known that you wish to negotiate the rent increase. And let them know you have a few ideas they might wish to consider. Here’s how. Read the rest of this entry »

There’s a new workplace reality and it doesn’t involve a cubicle. More and more people are pursuing work from home opportunities and choosing to take this lifestyle to a new level. Enter: the digital nomad. These individuals leverage technology to work remotely and live an independent, nomadic lifestyle. From freelance writing to massage therapy, opportunities abound for apartment-run businesses.

These forward-thinkers don’t want to be tied down with moving expenses, shipping, furniture storage, and in some cases, long-term payment plans associated with financing a dream-couch-that-doesn’t-fit-in-your-new-Parisian-loft. Renting a furnished apartment is the perfect solution for people who want to live comfortably and stylishly, but never be tied down. Here are some of the major benefits to choosing furnished digs. Read the rest of this entry »

“Summer breeze, makes me feel fine,” but summer heat and electricity bills definitely do not. If you live in an apartment, you’re probably familiar with the rising costs of your energy bill in the summer. So how can you keep your cool without paying a fortune? Here are some great money-saving hacks, just for apartment renters. Read the rest of this entry »

The boxes are packed, the keys are in hand, and a little voice from within seems to be whispering, “YOU’RE AN ADULT NOW!” While getting out of mom and dad’s place or even your college dorm is the first step to really being out on your own, one small factor could stop you straight in your tracks: those dolla’ dolla’ bills. Budgeting for your first apartment can be, to put it lightly, a learning experience. Because if you like to move it, move it, you’ve gotta pay it, pay it. Did you know that according to Gallup, only 32% of Americans create a monthly budget? Somehow, budgeting has taken a back burner in the lives of young people, especially. But don’t worry – we can help. Here are some expenses that you may have forgotten about, along with some smart solutions to keep them in check. Read the rest of this entry »