5 tips for apartment hunting in a big city

Apartment hunting in a big city can be hard. You don't know which neighborhoods are fun, which streets are safe, or which falafel place is the best before you're supposed to decide on where to live. But don't worry, with a little know-how, you can find the apartment of your dreams. 

Photo: Father Knows Best

1. Avoid scams

It might go without saying, but apartment scams are often not as obvious as you think. Sites like Craigslist have a bad reputation, but they're not necessarily filled with scams. Red flags are more in the details; avoid apartment listings without photos or with photos which look doctored; ask to see the apartment before you put any money down (or ask for a video tour if you're overseas) and always trust your instincts. If something seems off, it's better to be safe than sorry. Asking for any money or personal details (aside from your favorite hobbies) before you've seen the place is usually a scam alert. 

2. Google search and map the neighborhood safety

Just because a neighborhood is a good commute or a cheap price doesn't mean it's the right one for your home. You can get to know if a neighborhood is safe without living there with the help of Google. Type in the neighborhood you're thinking of moving to alongside keywords like 'safety' or go straight to the crime statistics. Be aware of the date of articles you come across; many neighborhoods in big cities have seen big changes over the last few years and often previously crime-ridden areas are now perfectly safe to live in. If you want up to date information, try Google crime maps (you can see the NYC crime map here) where you can see recommendations based on current statistics.

Photo: ArtsClub

3. Check there are things to see and do locally

You probably want to know that there are things to see and do in your new neighborhood; search 'bars', 'restaurants' or 'cafes in' (your neighborhood name) and look at the number of pins. One great spot can make your experience of living in an apartment, so remember that quality sometimes beats quantity. You can also check out local blogs and housing blogs, like our articles on the appeal of living in different NYC neighborhoods.

4. Don't forget the little details

Think about your typical week and what you might want from an apartment and neighborhood. Little things count; like what is the bus service like if the subway stops running? Can you get home at 3am in the morning, or are there city bikes nearby to shorten your commute? If you want to get the vibe of a neighborhood but can't go and visit, take a strong along Google street view within a few blocks' radius.

Photo: SF.Gov

5. Go with a trusted source

We're not saying you have to rent through a company, but it's better if you do. Renting through an individual simply doesn't offer the renter the same rights and protection. At Outpost, for instance, you can see our track record, reviews and our transparent house rules and promises to our members. You can see evidence of happy members, past and present, on our social media and blog post. This type of information indicates that you can trust us and, although apartment sources come in all shapes and sizes, it's still something to keep in mind when decided whether to trust an individual or a company with your money.