How to Read Apartment Rental Listings to Find the Good Ones

Sorting through rental listings to find the best apartments of the bunch can be trying and more than a little difficult, especially if you have limited time to tour the apartments before you sign the rental agreement-assuming you’re able to get to the city beforehand at all. That’s why it’s essential that you learn how to properly read apartment listings so you can narrow your choices down to the best few.

Be Suspicious of Vague Listings

Terms like “spacious,” “rustic,” “quaint” and “convenient to [location]” are commonplace in rental listings but don’t really tell you a whole lot about the apartments. Terms like “spacious” and “convenient” are subject to individual interpretation. When you find out that your “spacious” apartment is pretty cluttered once furniture is inside or the promised “convenient” downtown area is a 20-minute drive and not a 5-minute walk like you thought, the landlord can argue that to him or her, those are “spacious” and “convenient.” Similarly, words like “rustic” and “quaint” are used to make old apartments-those likely in need of work-sound more attractive.

Be Wary of New Renovations

Don’t rule out any rental listings that advertise new renovations and appliances because that can be a plus. However, be cautious before proceeding. Try and see if you can find out why there were new renovations. If the entire apartment complex was renovated, that could be a good sign, as the renovations are likely indicative of the entire complex becoming more modern and streamlined. However, if it was the single apartment that got new renovations, you have to wonder what kind of condition in which the previous tenant left the apartment. Search under nooks and crannies and behind appliances if you can tour the apartment beforehand to see what kind of damage, mold or stains the landlord may have covered up.

Also, if a listing touts new appliances and not much else, you can likely cross it off of your list. You should be able to expect relatively new, working appliances in your apartment, so it shouldn’t be a “bonus” to entice you to rent a place.

Look for Terms like “Upscale” or “Resort-Style Living”

The terms “upscale” and “resort-style living” in rental listings generally refers to the areas in communities with smaller crime rates and easier access to upscale shops, restaurants and boutiques. They may even have a concierge service or a community clubhouse at which you can relax and get items such as toiletries without heading to a store. The one caveat with these types of apartments is that they’re among the pricier apartments in a community, so make sure it fits your budget before you agree to rent.

When you can recognize the terms in rental listings that are likely indicative of the best area apartments, you’ll spend less time trying to find a new place and be less likely to be stuck with a year-long contract on an apartment that doesn’t suit your needs. Just be aware that it’s always possible for a landlord to stretch the truth, so do your research and see what former tenants have to say before you commit.