by FM Sherman

Created on: December 31, 2010

Los Angeles is an expensive city and with some careful planning, you can find an affordable apartment. Here are some tips:

Check Alternative Locations

Prices vary widely by location.  The same exact apartment size, features, layout etc., could be $1000. a month in the West Valley, yet $2000. a month in West Hollywood.  Think of where you really need to live and check surrounding neighborhoods.   Los Angeles also has a rapidly developing subway system, so consider that for your primary transportation.  This may allow you to live a bit further away and get more for less.

Word Of Mouth / Referrals

The insider tips are always the best.  Be sure to get the word out to friends, family, co-workers, anyone you can think of, to let people know you are looking for a cheap apartment.  You may want to place flyers at your work or school.

Drive Around

The is sometimes the best way to find a place.  Some of the best spaces do not advertise, they simply put up a little sign because they want locals only.  These are usually unique places.  Leave yourself enough time to drive around neighborhoods and areas you like.  In many cases you will be able to see the units immediately.

Advertise Yourself

If you are a good rental candidate, with a solid history, steady job, good credit, why not advertise yourself in the neighborhood you want to be in.  Make up some flyers saying "WANTED - NICE APARTMENT" with your selling points.  Landlords need good tenants, just as much as tenants need good apartments.

Craigslist.com

This is probably the most common way to find affordable apartments, but there are many users.  You may find the best apartments are snapped up the day they are posted.  Also landlords get so many inquiries from craigslist, they sometimes seem almost bothered by it.  There are good listings to be found and it remains a solid option for apartment hunters.

Local Papers / websites

Many local communities and neighborhoods in Los Angeles have their own little newspapers and related websites.  This is a good place to look for cheap apartments.

Westsiderentals.com

This is a private company in Los Angeles that handles many prime rental properties.  They charge a fee to apartment hunters, but they do have a good selection of listings.  If you do not have the time, energy or desire to do a lot of research on your own, this is a good option.

Learn more about this author, FM Sherman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.