No credit history does not mean no options. Five proven strategies renters use to get approved for apartments when their credit file is blank.
A short rental history — from living with family, owning previously, or being new to renting — doesn't have to prevent you from qualifying. Here's how to compensate and build credibility.
Most first-time renters underestimate move-in costs. Here's exactly how much savings you need before signing a lease — broken down by city and situation.
Rental application fees cover credit and background checks. Learn how much they cost, when they are refundable, and how to avoid paying multiple times.
Everything a first-time renter needs to do before, during, and after an apartment search — from setting a budget to signing the lease.
Renting for the first time? This complete guide covers budgeting, building your application, reading a lease, knowing your rights, and getting approved.
No rental history? Here are 6 proven ways to build a rental track record and get approved for an apartment even as a first-time renter.
Moving into your first apartment? Here's a comprehensive checklist of documents, finances, and preparation steps to ensure a smooth move-in.
A co-signer agrees to pay your rent if you default. Learn when landlords require one, the risks involved, and alternatives that may help you avoid needing one at all.
Before you apply for an apartment, gather these essential documents: photo ID, proof of income, rental history, and more. Here's the complete checklist landlords expect.
From skipping the fine print to ignoring hidden fees, these common apartment hunting mistakes cost renters time and money. Here is how to avoid them.
About half of rentals ban pets, but strategies like a pet resume, higher deposit, and pre-verification can help you get approved. Here is how to find and secure a pet-friendly apartment.
A renter resume summarizes your income, rental history, and references in one page. Learn what to include and use our free template to stand out in competitive rental markets.
From habitability to privacy to eviction protections, renters have more legal rights than many realize. Here's what landlords legally cannot do — and what to do if they cross the line.
Documenting your apartment condition at move-in protects you from unjust security deposit deductions. Here's a room-by-room checklist with everything to inspect and how to record it.
Studios are cheaper and simpler; 1-bedrooms offer privacy and space. This guide compares both to help you decide which apartment type fits your budget and lifestyle.
Moving before you arrive is possible with video tours, landlord verification, and a pre-verified tenant profile. Here is how to rent remotely without getting scammed.
A landlord reference is one of the most powerful elements of a rental application. Learn how to ask for one, what to include, and what to do if you cannot get one.
Co-signers sign the lease with you; guarantors are backup payers. Learn the legal differences, what landlords require from each, and alternatives like institutional guarantors.
Learn which utilities are typically included in rent, how much utilities cost for a 1-bedroom apartment, and how to set up utilities when you move in.
From searching to signing, here is the complete step-by-step process of renting an apartment — what to do, in what order, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
A notice to vacate formally ends a rental relationship. Learn the types, required notice periods by state, how to write one, and what to do if you receive one from your landlord.
An apartment tour is your only chance to spot problems before signing. This 30-point checklist covers what to inspect, questions to ask, and how to apply immediately after.
No rental history is common for first-time renters. Learn how to compensate with strong income proof, a co-signer, professional references, and a Settl verification.
Renting requires more upfront than most people expect. Here is how to prepare your finances before you start your search.
Setting up utilities in a new apartment involves more steps than most renters expect. Here is the complete checklist — what to set up, in what order, and what to watch out for.
No job, no credit, no rental history — student renters face unique hurdles. Here's the complete playbook for getting approved for your first apartment.