15 guides
First apartment and renting guides
Plain-English guides to renting your first apartment. Tenant laws vary by state and city, so check local rules. General education, not legal advice.
Afford it
Rent budgets, move-in savings, applications and guarantors.
- How much rent can I afford?
Two rules of thumb, and why your budget matters more.
- Saving for move-in costs
Often two to three times the monthly rent, before you get the keys.
- Rental applications and credit checks
What landlords check, and how to prepare.
- Cosigners and guarantors
When you don't meet the income or credit requirements.
Find a place
Searching, rental scams and roommates.
- Finding an apartment
Start early, compare the real monthly cost.
- How to spot a rental scam
Never pay before you've seen the place and signed a lease.
- Choosing roommates (and staying friends)
Agree on money and habits before you sign.
Sign and move in
Leases, deposits, renters insurance and utilities.
- How to read your lease
The clauses that cost money if you miss them.
- Security deposits, explained
Limits, deductions and deadlines vary by state.
- Renters insurance: what it covers
Your belongings and your liability, not the building.
- Setting up utilities and internet
Start them before move-in day.
Live on your own
Budgets, furnishing, deposits back and renewals.
- Your first-apartment budget
The costs that surprise new renters.
- Furnishing your first place for less
Essentials first, the rest over time.
- Getting your deposit back
It starts on move-in day, with photos.
- Lease renewals and rent increases
Plan ahead and know your options.