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How to Find Apartment Listings Online

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Once upon a time, you had to check out the local newspaper for apartment listings or ride around a neighborhood to see what was available. But today, like everything else, you can find the apartment of your dreams online and learn everything you need to know about it in mere minutes. There are many sites and apps that can help you with your search. Here is a general look at how to use one to find your next home:.

Find an Apartment Tool You Like

You have dozens of options when it comes to finding apartment listings online, ranging from old, familiar websites to cool, new apps. Some popular options are Craigslist, Hot Pads, Apartments.com, PadMapper, Abodo, Zillow, Homefinder, Homes.com, Rent.com and Trulia. Simply pick the one you like best, download the app or visit the website..

Know What You Want

Almost all of these sites require you to have a basic idea of where you want to live. That means you'll need to know a city, zip code, neighborhood or community at the very least. You may also add other qualifiers to narrow down your search, such as how much rent you're willing to pay, how many beds or bathrooms you need and what kind of amenities you require, like on-site laundry, a swimming pool, pet-friendly apartments and furnished units. .

Map It Out

Most of the sites and apps mentioned above will not only pull up search results when you enter your qualifying information, but they will also bring up a map of all the listings within your area. Generally, the maps are interactive, so you can zoom in and out and even extend your search boundaries. This is helpful when you're trying to find a place in a new town that is near your job or school. Most of the maps have icons on them that allow you to click an individual apartment building in the area and learn more details about it..

View the Details

When you do find an apartment in an area you like, it's time to get a more up-close and personal look. Click on the listing to read about it and view the pictures. Photos may feature the outside of the apartment building, along with any common areas and shared amenities. You'll also see sample photos of an apartment there that is available for rent. Other items you may be able to view here include floor plans, maps and 3D or panoramic tours. The listing may even offer reviews from other residents, along with a list of schools, parks and stores in the area..

Make Contact for a Viewing

Of course, you never want to rent an apartment without seeing it in person first. It's also important to verify all of the online information to make sure it's correct. Most of the sites provide contact information or a submission form so that they can have an apartment manager contact you. Give them your information if you're serious about a place, and ask for a real-life tour.