by Nancy L. Baumann

Created on: June 10, 2009

TIPS FOR FINDING APARTMENTS IN ST. LOUIS, MO

Finding an apartment in St. Louis can seem like a daunting task, because St. Louis is a large metropolitan area. which is divided into the City of St. Louis, St. Louis County (which boasts 92 separate municipalities), numerous communities, and countless neighborhoods.

Here are 10 tips on finding an apartment:

1. Decide which area best suits you and your lifestyle. Do you want to live near your workplace? Enroll your children in a particular school district? Enjoy a loft in the city? Narrow down your options before you start looking.

2. Determine your budget. How much you can afford is determined by your monthly income minus your monthly debts. Don't overreach your budget.

3. Take advantage of free publications. Go to the nearest mall, grocery store or gas station and pick up a copy of The Apartment Guide or Apartment Finder magazine. These free publications contain comprehensive information on the major apartment communities in the area, including rent rates and amenities. You will also find website listings which offer further information and virtual tours.

4. Referrals are valuable. Ask your friends and co-workers for recommendations for specific apartment communities. They may receive a cash bonus for your referral.

5. Use internet resources to your advantage. Here are three to consider:

* Go to www.craigslist.com and navigate to Missouri, then St. Louis. Find the link under "housing" and you will find numerous options for apartments, sublets, finding a roommate, or temporary housing.

* For Rent Magazine - www.ForRent.com

Z6EFP* Apartment Guide - EW56Bhttp://www.ApartmentGuide.comWH6PDwww.Apartment Guide.com

6. The St. Louis Post Dispatch and The Suburban Journal contain classified listings for apartments and other living communities.

7. Use the current economy to your advantage. Not only are you looking for an apartment, apartment communities are looking for you! Apartment owners are motivated to keep their occupancy rate high. Empty apartments cost them real dollars. Negotiate your rental rates.

8. Shop around, then use the information to make the best selection. One community may offer the first month for free, while another may waive the security deposit. Determine which option is best for you.

9. Ask the landlord for copies of previous utility bills. Ask if you are responsible to pay the gas, electric, water, trash or cable bills.

10. A lease is a legal document, so read it carefully before you sign. The lease should include the terms (how much is due, and the due date), penalties for late payments, corporate policies regarding pets, children, noise, pool use, etc. Be sure to read the fine print.

REMEMBER: You are the customer, and the market in St. Louis is wide open. Enjoy the hunt!

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