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Renting your first apartment is an exciting milestone—but it also comes with a lot of decisions. You’ve already explored Zillow listings, clicked through photo galleries, and read reviews of a million places all over town. You can picture it now: your first apartment, your own space, your next big step. But… Now what?
Taking the plunge into renting your first apartment is an exciting step toward independence and a space to call your own. With a little planning and research, you’ll be able to avoid common frustrations during the rental process and lock down your first apartment with confidence.
What you’ll find in our Apartment Leasing Guide:
The rental market can be tricky to navigate, especially for first-timers. From listings that sound too good to be true to pages of fine print in a lease agreement, the process has its challenges. Working with a broker is a great way to lean on a professional to ensure your apartment search is successful.
+ Better with a Broker: A broker is a licensed professional who helps people find apartments or homes to rent or buy. They have access to listings, know the ins and outs of the market, and can help guide you through the process. In many areas, you can work with a broker to find an apartment at no cost to you.
+ Work with someone you trust: It’s important to work with a broker you trust. Brokers have a deep understanding of the city, as well as familiarity with reputable rental management and ownership groups. Each state has their own license database where you can search to make sure your broker is both licensed and has never been disciplined. For example, the Illinois Department of Financial and Public Regulations (IDFPR) and the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies host public records for the Illinois and Colorado, respectively.
+ Teaming up: Working with a licensed professional can be key to ensure you don’t sign a lease that you’ll later regret. It’s better to hear honesty from your broker to avoid issues later.
+ Research your brokerage: As a first time renter, be sure to do your research before working with a broker – you’ll want to ensure that the person you’re renting with is legit. Once you’ve found that perfect partner in your apartment search, they can also be a great resource in sniffing out scams. Be wary of listings with prices that seem significantly lower than comparable units in the area.
+ Do your due diligence: Scan ILS (Internet Listing Sites) sites such as Zillow or Apartments.com to view all of your potential options. Filter by price and location, and don’t be afraid to explore – you might find a hidden gem in a neighborhood you weren’t initially considering. Once you’ve found buildings that pique your interest, check out the reviews to hear from current and former residents.
Your lease is a roadmap for what you can expect as a new resident. Be sure to check for the following:
+ Does your lease include utilities?
+ How do you pay rent, and when is it due?
+ What happens if you need to break the lease?
These are just a few of the important questions to consider when reviewing your lease. Read everything thoroughly, and if something doesn’t make sense, ask. Your broker can help you interpret the legal jargon and help you understand what to expect when you move in.
Setting a realistic budget that includes both upfront and monthly expenses is the key to making your first apartment a success. Here’s how to plan:
+ Rule of Thirds: Common wisdom states that you should spend no more than 33% of your gross income (before taxes) on rent. This guideline is supported by research and expert insight, and is best practice to ensure you are not overspending on a place you can’t afford.
+ Location matters: Renting a cheaper apartment further out might mean higher commuting costs, or you might have to spend more money on gas or getting your car serviced. A closer spot might save time and money on transportation, but demand higher rent or parking payments each month. Consider the trade offs as a part of your 33% rule.
+ Roommates or cosigners: If your budget’s tight or your credit history isn’t established, consider splitting the cost with a roommate or enlisting a cosigner. The requirements for cosigner eligibility often differ from city to city and even building to building – make sure you inquire about cosigner requirements when you are exploring your options!
+ Think long-term: Your expenses aren’t just the initial costs. Each month, you’ll be responsible for additional fees or bills that are important to consider. Here are some common items to budget for:
+ Upfront costs: Application fees, administrative fees, security deposits, moving truck rentals, and new furniture.
+ Recurring costs: Rent, utilities (electricity, water, gas), internet, phone, parking, laundry, and transportation.
Before you start touring apartments, make a list. What features are must-haves? What’s nice to have? And what are your absolute dealbreakers?
+ Needs: These are non-negotiables, like being within a certain commute to work or having access to public transportation.
+ Wants: Features like hardwood floors, a gym, or a private balcony might fall into this category.
+ Dealbreakers: If you can’t live without central air or in-unit laundry, or can’t tolerate a pet policy that bans your dog, add it to your list!
Being clear about these categories will help you narrow down your options quickly. An experienced broker will help you work through these lists, ensuring your needs are met!
Pictures can sometimes be deceiving, and 3D tours only go so far. Always visit an apartment in person before signing a lease if possible.
Don’t feel rushed. Take your time to:
☐ Look for signs of damage or pests.
☐ Test appliances and light fixtures.
☐ Ask about parking, laundry, and building security.
☐ Walk around the neighborhood during both day and night.
☐ Locate the nearest grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation stops.
☐ Check water pressure and temperature to make sure you’ll enjoy your showers.
Remember: there are no dumb questions. Ask about everything, from building security to maintenance response times.
Bringing just a few simple items can help you feel more prepared when touring rentals for the first time.
☐ Official ID.
☐ Smartphone or tablet for taking pictures and applying online.
☐ Copy of the property listing.
☐ Form of payment (in case you want to apply immediately)
☐ Tape measure for visualizing your furniture in the space.
If you are moving from out of the city or state, or don’t have time to visit the apartment in person, your broker can help you out. Many brokers will walk you through virtual tours via video call to give you as accurate of an impression as possible. This is why it is so important to work with a broker you trust – if they’re your feet on the ground, you want them to tell the honest truth about what they’re seeing.
Watching YouTube videos, scrolling TikToks, and reading online neighborhood guides (like our Lincoln Park neighborhood guide) are great ways to gather invaluable information about different neighborhoods when you are not able to explore in person before deciding where to rent.
Once you’ve found an apartment you love, the next step is submitting a rental application. For first-time renters, this process can feel overwhelming. But knowing what to expect ahead of time can make it less stressful and will allow you to act fast so that you can lock down your dream apartment.
Most landlords or property managers will ask for the following documents in your application. In many cities, rentals move fast, so come prepared with the following so you can apply on the spot if you find a place you love.
Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter of employment. Many landlords require your monthly income to be at least 2.5–3x one month’s rent. If your income does not meet this criteria, you may need a cosigner.
Photo ID: A driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
Rental history: If this is your first apartment, you may need a cosigner or character references instead.
Credit check: Landlords often perform a credit screening to assess your financial reliability.
Background check: You may also be asked to consent to a background screening.
Application Fee: Some landlords charge a non-refundable application fee, which could be in the form of a personal check, cashiers check, or online payment.
Not every apartment will ask for all of these documents, and some may even request additional ones. Either way, being prepared means you can apply quickly when the right place comes along.
The work isn’t quite over once you’ve signed your lease. Moving your belongings can be a bit daunting, but a little planning goes a long way toward protecting your stuff (and your sanity).
+ Hire professional movers: If you decide to splurge on movers (instead of borrowing a friends’ car or renting a U-Haul), look for companies that are licensed, insured, and bonded. It’s worth the peace of mind in case something breaks or goes missing during your move.
+ Reserve elevator and dock time: Most apartment buildings require you to schedule your move-in window. Coordinate with building management early so you’re not stuck hauling boxes up the stairs or paying more than you need to for an extended movers window.
+ Get Renters Insurance. Many buildings require it, but even if they don’t, it’s a smart move. If something unexpected happens, like a fire, flood, or break-in, renters insurance helps cover the cost of your personal belongings.
Renting your first apartment is a big step, but with some preparation, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Lean on the right resources, budget wisely, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. This is your first home, and you deserve to start off on the right foot.
Our team of brokers here at Cross Street would be honored to help you find your very first apartment. With our local knowledge and industry experience, we’ll guide you to a place you’ll love while steering clear of scammy listings and hidden fees. We’ll connect you with trusted movers, offer FaceTime tours if you’re relocating, and give you honest advice about what fits your budget. If you’re looking for support with your first rental, reach out below.
Check out our leasing map to explore available rentals in Chicago, Denver, and Cleveland.
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