What are "comps" and why you need to ask for them when hunting for an apartment...

A comp is a comparable apartment.   You may be familiar with CMA (comparable market analysis.)   Although an agent is supposed to know all that stuff, you need to know them too, especially if you're trying to find a great deal on your next apartment. 
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Simply speaking, a comp is a similar apartment that theoretically speaking should be almost the same price since it has just about the same location, size, characteristics and amenities. 

When working with an agent, be sure to get the value of the agent's service by making sure that a competitive market analysis has been performed.  Asked questions such as:

• What are comparable units like the one you've just shown me going for in this area?    
  
• At this price range is there anything better out there?  
  
• Suppose I want the apartment to have a ********, can I get it at this price range?   How more am I going to have to pay?  
  
• What if I don't want the *********?  Can you find anything cheaper?

Don't just be a passive consumer and  grab the first unit that comes onto your radar (on the other hand, be aware that good deals get snatched up quickly.)   Work quickly to assess the comps get the best apartment you deserve in the end. 

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