Housing Complex

Step One Be prepared: Create a renter's resume with your current and previous five addresses and landlord phone numbers, your employer and length of employment, your current salary and other income, personal references, among other information. Include a copy of your credit report. You want to look as good on paper as possible to stand out from other applicants. 

Step Two Look in the newspaper classifieds, apartment hunter publications, college campus bulletin boards, and online for available units to investigate. Ask friends about openings in their buildings. 

Step Three Consider how much you can afford to pay. A good rule of thumb is no more than 30 percent of your take-home monthly income. 

Step Four Enlist a rental agent to narrow your search. Depending on the market, this service may be free (paid for by landlords) or cost you a percentage of your rent when you land the apartment. 

Step Five Turn to a roommate service if you're looking for cheaper space to share. Be clear what qualities you desire in a roommate, as well as types of people or habits you'd prefer to avoid, such as smokers.