Google Housing Search - Given search criteria, Google will display listings of matching properties along with their location on a google map. I'm not sure how google housing compiles its listings, but I did notice quite a few links pointed to hotpads.
hotpads - This site has a lot of listings. while the Google Housing Search includes some hotpads listings, you have to check out this site to see all the listings for your criteria.Rent Direct - The source for no fee apartments. The listings here will usually put you in contact with the landlord directly, sidestepping the broker and avoiding a potentially deal breaking fee. Brokers fees are usually some percentage (like 15%) of a years rent. So if your apartment costs $2500 a month, 2500 x 12 x .15 = $4500. Going without a broker is a hassle though. Listings change daily, and coordinating apartment viewings with landlords can be tricky, or just awkward. Example:
Me: Hi, Id like to schedule an apartment viewing.
Landlord: Ok, when are you coming? ill put a key on top of the door, just let your self in and look around.
One caveat, Rent Direct is a fee service. I paid half of $269.85, so it was $135 per person.
Craig's List - Some decent listings, but the listing search is lousy compared to the above sites.
Manhattan Apts - An ok listing site, plus it has the option for no fee listings, but when I used it, I only got one result.
Starting tomorrow, I'm going to schedule apartment viewings with all the landlords I can. Hopefully, Ill be able to avoid the broker fee.
Song of the Day: Bold as Love - Jimi Hendrix
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