How to Rent Property in the USA
A guide for expats searching for accommodation in the US
By Ellen Thompson of 4 Walls
Looking for a place to live when you arrive stateside? Whether you’re searching for a house or an apartment, the flexibility that renting allows makes it the best option for most people relocating to the United States.
Here are 5 steps to help you navigate the rental waters:
- Consider your commute. Your rental home will need to be within a reasonable distance to your school or workplace. Commuting time varies dramatically, from five-minute walks to 1.5+ hour car rides. Figure out how much time you're willing to spend commuting. This will help you narrow your options.
- Know your priorities. Do you love living in the city? Do you want your children to attend a top public school? Is commuting by train a must? Knowing what you can't live without will help you narrow your search to the neighbourhoods that best meet your needs. After coming up with a short list, you can begin to do some research online. Ask for help by posting questions on sites like answers.yahoo.com or search neighbourhood forums on City-data.com.
- Begin your search. The best way to begin looking for a rental apartment or home is to start with your favourite search engine. For example, if you are looking to rent in Washington, DC, enter “Washington DC apartments” into the search box. There are numerous apartment search sites where you can research apartment rents and amenities and view photos and floor plans from the comfort of your home. Starting with a search will help you identify websites that work best in individual rental markets. In some cases you'll find geographically targeted local sites like 4wallsindc.com, as well as sites with rentals throughout the United States like Move.com , Forrent.com , or 4walls.us.
- Consider a locator or Realtor. With a few exceptions (which include New York City and Boston), it is uncommon to work with a locator or realtor to find a renal home, or to pay them fees to help you through the rental process. However, if you are feeling particularly unsure, locators can help you identify apartments for rent and Realtors can help you find houses for rent. However, keep in mind that they will only show you options that offer them a fee.
- Close the deal. The process and the paperwork you'll need to complete vary from landlord to landlord. In most cases, expect to fill out a comprehensive rental application, pay an application fee, have your credit checked, and once approved, pay a security deposit and first (and sometimes last) month's rent. Most property managers require a one year lease. If you can't commit for that long, look for apartment communities that offer corporate housing. You'll be able to rent for as little as one month, but the rental rates are much higher.
Want to sign a lease before you arrive? In many cases, this is an option if you're renting an apartment. Most larger property management companies will let you make arrangements to rent your apartment online.
You're probably wondering if there any situations where it might be better to buy than rent. If you are very familiar with the neighbourhoods, are very certain you'll live in the house you select for at least four years, have finances to make a decent sized down payment, and qualify for a mortgage, then buying may be for you. If not, renting is the best option.
More information:
â–ºRead our Expat Arrivals USA Country Guide for all the information you need about living overseas or working abroad in the US
