How to Find an Affordable Apartment in New York City

Follow these rules... period...

1. Put in as many queries as possible. 
2. Be as flexible as possible with the variables, but know what you need.
3. Use all resources at hand (but stay clear of the dodgy ones!)
4. Keep playing those odds until people get back to you.  
5. When you get a hit, act quickly.   Meaning, if possible, run down without delay.
6. Have all documentation prepared in advance.
7. Make sure all applications are submitted without errors or missing information.
8. Submit all requested documentation without delay.   Do not wait until later in the day or the next morning.
9. Do not give up or get disappointed if you get turned down.
10.  Do not put the apartment hunt on pause while waiting for someone to get back to you.   That's lost time.


ALSO:   KNOW THE MARKET or work with with someone who does.

The advantages of working with an competant agent:

• May have access to various listing sources not available to the general public.
• Should already have a general knowledge of various neighborhoods and the major landlords.
• If part of a large brokerage, should  be part of a network of other agents who may have listings that fit your needs.
• Should be able to work quicker than you when it comes to catching deals.
• ​Should be able to make the process smoother and help you avoid common scams and pitfalls.
• No money required unless they find you a place and you actually sign the lease.  (This is the policy of most legit brokerages.)

​and always remember:
Communication is king.   The hardest thing in NYC is finding people who return you calls.  Work hard at finding those allies!