Finding an apartment that matches your needs, budget and desired location is no easy task. Modern renters although benefit from having access to millions of online listings but can find themselves overwhelmed trying to navigate the extensive collection of rental search engines. Knowing where to find relevant rental information online can alleviate this common stressor. To assist those soon-to-be renters, we researched and compiled a list of the best websites to utilize in your hunt for a new home.
Padmapper.com
Padmapper sources data from multiple rental services, primarily Craigslist, to give users access to all available listings and allow them to filter as needed. Filters can be set based on desired minimum/maximum rent, pet friendliness, long- or short-term lease and number of bedrooms. The site has a Google Maps display that gives you a visual sense as to where the apartments are in relation to everything else. Users can toggle between a location’s WalkScore, Street View and property photos without having to leave the Padmapper site. This service is also available as a mobile app that allows you to save each apartment lead for later reference.
Lovely.com
Lovely has features common to other rental search engines such as advanced filter options and a visual map navigation. What sets this service apart is it’s simple-to-use interface. Lovely provides users with a one-stop source for everything they need from initial rental search to eventual application submittal. By selecting a listing, you will be presented with a detailed description and accompanying apartment photos. It is within this feature that you can actually submit your application information that will be stored and processed on your behalf. The sites convenience and user-friendliness make it a great tool for modern renters.
WalkScore.com
Relevant information regarding an apartment’s walkability or how many community amenities are within reasonable walking distance, can be found on WalkScore. WalkScore gives each listing a potential score based on how walkable, bike-able, and its proximity to transit. This site, like others, lists available listings and basic filter options. However, Walkscore is better utilized for community-specific information such as commute times and distance from shopping, healthcare, schools and cultural attractions. Renters who do not own a car, or prefer physical activity as a mode of transportation, will find this service very useful. Luckily, our Richman Signature Properties websites also utilize this useful feature as well.
Apartments.com
Apartments.com is a great place to go for a comprehensive overview of an apartment community. This site hits all the rental search engine basics, i.e. producing available listings, pricing, number of bedrooms, etc., while also offering unique information to provide users a more in-depth look of an apartment. Renters have the option to search for apartments that have video or 3D tours of their units and amenities. Verified resident reviews are displayed as are miscellaneous fees, current rent specials, a neighborhood guide, and sound score for the community. Apartments.com also has a “Plan Commute” feature that allows you to filter your apartment search by commute time. From there you can designate your preferred commute and leads will generate accordingly.
Rent.com
Rent.com has a similar interface to Apartments.com and provides users with much of the same rental information. Unlike Apartments.com however, when you run a search on Rent.com the site will generate those listings in your specified area, as well as apartments in neighboring cities that match your criteria. You may discover that communities located in other areas do not significantly affect your commute time, and therefore are worth looking into for possible rental opportunities.