Renting an Apartment in New York City for dummies

Apartments in New York

We have computers for dummies, stock trading for dummies, even how to be a mother for dummies but we don't have how to rent an apartment in New York City dummies. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to find an apartment however it's nice to have some sort of guide. Many people looking for an apartment in New York City just don't know where to start, many would just ask their friends or family or others that have found an apartment in New York City before.The truth is there's no wrong or right way to start your search.

Depending on your situation every search for an apartment in New York City starts off different. Whether you're looking to move in two weeks or two months it's always a good idea to start by doing some research especially on the web. Generally speaking it's a bad idea to wait last minute to begin your search for apartment. However if there was a city where you can wait last minute to find apartment there is none other than New York, reason being no city flips apartments as quickly as New York City. Apartments literally come and go hourly. If you were to wait last minute to rent an apartment in New York City you'll most likely end up paying a broker's fee.

Here are some tips to follow when beginning your search for an apartment in New York.

Always give yourself at least 30 days before beginning your search

Have enough money saved for unforeseen expenses(first, last, security, moving expenses, credit check fees, furniture, etc.)

Try not to burn yourself out, even if you can see 20 different apartments in one day, seeing so many apartments in one day can make the decision process even more difficult than it already is.

Be flexible, look at apartments just outside your neighborhood in addition to just outside your price range, you never know what you might get for just 50 bucks more a month.

Factor in monthly utilities like electricity and gas into your rental budget.

Be prepared to take an apartment immediately, your personal information along with any guarantors financial information should be by your side during your apartment search.

Be realistic, you won't live in a three bedroom pad like in the sitcom "Friends" for $2000 a month in the heart of the West Village.

Be patient, the right apartment will come along, don't rush into something because a leasing agent or broker told you to, you will be the one that has to live in the apartment. At the same token apartments don't grow on trees, if you feel comfortable, safe and it feels right, take the apartment.

Anyone that's ever looked for an apartment in New York City knows how difficult it can be however it's definitely and not impossible otherwise we would have a lot more people living on the streets.

If you have certain restrictions consider expanding your search criteria for example if you have a 75 pound dog you may want to look into areas outside your prime neighborhoods.

Although sometimes landlords/supers show apartments in the evening it's in your best interest to see the apartments during the day.

Make sure you're well rested before pounding the pavement.

Bring a friend or family member to keep you company and to voice their opinions.

Start your search with free resources like Craig's list or back page.

To get a feel for the market search for apartments outside the parameters.

Be positive and good luck!.