Rental apartment is a type of residential building where people live. It is a popular housing option and there are nearly 44 million renter-occupied households in the United States. Apartments are typically located in urban areas, with a variety of amenities including pools, gyms and roof decks. They are usually available for lease terms ranging from a few months to one year.

Before you start looking, make sure that you have all your documentation in order. You will need proof of income, pay stubs and references, as well as your driver’s license or state-issued ID. It is helpful to have these documents prepared ahead of time so that you can quickly fill out the rental application once you find a place that you love. It is also a good idea to bring cash with you to the showings, since many apartments require the first and last month’s rent as a deposit.

Rental Apartment: How to Find the Perfect Place to Live

Determine your budget and priorities. Before you begin your search, sit down and realistically assess your finances and the amount you can comfortably afford to pay monthly. You can then set your priorities in order of what’s most important to you, such as location, square footage or in-unit washer and dryer.

Consider whether to use a broker or agent to help you with your search. If you do, be aware that they will owe you a fee once you’ve secured an apartment, which is usually around 15% of the annual rent. It is best to discuss this with the broker upfront so that you know what to expect.