Renting your first place is a huge step. It’s exciting, sure, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. You’re probably juggling a lot of questions: What should I be looking for? What paperwork do I need? How do I know if something’s a good deal? If no one’s ever explained it all to you before, the process can seem confusing.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a housing expert to get started. This guide walks you through the basics, so you can make confident decisions and avoid common first-timer mistakes.
What You’ll Need Before You Start Looking
Before you start scrolling through listings or touring apartments, it helps to have a few things ready. Most landlords or property managers will ask for:
- A government-issued photo ID: Usually a driver’s license or passport.
- Proof of income: This could be recent pay stubs, a job offer letter, or even bank statements.
- A credit check: Some landlords want to see your credit score or credit history. If you don’t have much credit, don’t panic—you still have options.
- Rental history or references: If this is your first time renting, personal or professional references (like an employer) can help show that you’re responsible.
If your income or credit isn’t quite where it needs to be, a co-signer might be required. A co-signer is someone, usually a parent or close relative, who agrees to take responsibility for the rent if you can’t pay it.
Figuring Out What You Can Afford
It’s easy to fall in love with a place that’s out of your budget, so set your limit early. A common rule of thumb is that your rent should be no more than 30% of your monthly income. But that’s just a starting point. You’ll also need to factor in:
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas, trash)
- Internet or cable
- Renter’s insurance (Sometimes required by landlords)
- Parking fees or pet rent, if applicable
- One-time move-in expenses like deposits and moving supplies
Having a little emergency cushion, even just a few hundred dollars, can give you breathing room if something unexpected comes up in your first few months.
How to Search for Apartments (and Where to Look)
Once you’ve set your budget, it’s time to start the search. There are a few ways to go about it:
- Online platforms like Apartments.com, Zillow, HotPads, Craigslist, or Rent.com
- Facebook Marketplace or local housing groups
- Walking or driving around neighborhoods you’re interested in—some places only advertise with yard signs or on-site.
- Word of mouth from coworkers, friends, or classmates
When comparing listings, look beyond just the photos. Pay attention to:
- Square footage and layout
- Included utilities or amenities
- Location—think about commute times, safety, noise, and walkability.
- Lease terms—some places offer flexible leases or move-in deals.
- Whether or not pets are allowed (if pets are important to you)
Keep a running list of pros and cons. It’ll help when your brain starts blending all the options together.
How to Spot a Rental Scam
First-time renters are a common target for scams, especially when searching online. If a listing seems too good to be true, take a closer look. Some signs of a scam include:
- The rent is unusually low for the neighborhood or apartment size
- The “landlord” refuses to show the unit in person and pushes for money up front
- You’re asked to wire money or use cash apps before signing a lease
- The listing has blurry photos, vague details, or poor grammar
Always visit the place in person—or have someone you trust do it for you. If that’s not possible, ask for a live video tour. Don’t send money without a signed lease, and never give out personal details (like your Social Security number) until you’re sure the listing is legit.
When in doubt, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is—and it’s better to walk away than risk losing money or handing over personal info.
What to Look For on a Walkthrough
Once you schedule a tour or walkthrough, this is your chance to spot anything that might be a dealbreaker or something you’ll need to ask about. Here’s a quick list of things to check:
- Water pressure in sinks and showers
- Appliances: Do they work? Are they clean?
- Electrical outlets: Bring a phone charger and test a few
- Locks and windows: Make sure everything opens, closes, and locks securely
- Signs of pests or mold: Look under sinks, behind appliances, and around windows
- Smoke detectors and fire exits: Safety first!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Some questions you may want to ask include:
- Who do I contact if something breaks?
- Is there 24/7 emergency maintenance?
- What’s the average utility bill here?
Take photos or notes if you’re seeing multiple places in one day. Otherwise, they can start to blur together.
Reading the Lease: What to Understand Before You Sign
Leases can be long and packed with legal language, but they matter. They spell out exactly what’s expected from both you and the landlord. Before signing anything, make sure you understand:
- Lease length (6 months? 12 months?)
- How much is due each month, and when
- What’s included in the rent (utilities? parking? trash service?)
- Security deposit: How much is it, and under what conditions can you get it back?
- Late fees or penalties
- Rules around breaking the lease early
As a good rule of thumb, if something was promised verbally, make sure it’s written into the lease. Landlords may not remember later, and verbal agreements don’t hold up if there’s a dispute. If you’re unsure about something, it’s completely okay to ask for clarification or take the lease home to review before signing.
Move-In Costs and First Steps
The costs of moving in can catch people off guard. Here’s what you might need to pay upfront:
- First month’s rent
- Last month’s rent (not often required)
- Security deposit (often equal to one month’s rent)
- Application or admin fees
- Pet deposit or pet rent, if applicable
Once you move in, there are a few important things to do right away:
- Document the condition of the apartment by taking photos or video, especially of anything that’s already damaged or worn.
- Set up utilities and internet if they aren’t included.
- Buy renter’s insurance, which protects your stuff in case of fire, theft, or water damage (and usually only costs $10–$30/month).
- Introduce yourself to neighbors, especially if you’re in a smaller building or shared setup. This step can help if you ever need help or have an issue.
You’ve Got This
Your first rental might not be perfect, but it’s a step toward independence, and that matters. Like anything new, there’s a learning curve. You might make a mistake or two, and that’s okay. You’re figuring it out.
The key is to ask questions, trust your gut, and take things one step at a time. You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need to be willing to learn as you go. Renting your first place is a big deal. So take a deep breath, grab your checklist, and go find a space that feels like home.
