Renting an apartment it NYC is unlike any other rental experience in the country.  It can be competitive, time-consuming, and often exhausting.  NYC rental apartments are often rented on a first-come first-serve type basis.  That means you need to act quickly and be prepared. Here, we'll review a basic outline of rental apartment options in NYC as well as some tips for making your search as successful as possible.

 

NYC rental apartments are found in one of three types of buildings: Buildings with a doorman, buildings with an elevator but no doorman, and walk-up buildings, which have neither a doorman nor an elevator.  Apartment types are categorized by the number of bedrooms.  In addition, some apartments are listed as one-bedroom alcoves or junior one-bedrooms.  These apartments usually have adjoining spaces that can be used either as sleeping areas or living areas.  While rental apartment application requirements can vary, the majority of NYC rental apartments require the following: Income requirements, a lease guarantor, a credit check, application fee, an initial month's rent plus a security deposit.  If you've found the apartment through a broker, you may also be required to pay brokerage fees.  Because places go quickly, it's not a bad idea to carry your application materials with you while visiting apartments so you can apply immediately should you find a place that you like.  Don't forget to bring a photo ID, bank statements, tax returns, employment verification, and previous landlord references as well.  Finally- plan ahead and be prepared to make decisions quickly. If you like a place, act on it. If not, it may be taken within the hour!