How to quickly rent an apartment using the Internet: Step by step guide

Renting an apartment quickly and without unnecessary hassle is a task that can seem difficult, especially in the context of the modern real estate market. However, thanks to the Internet, this process can be greatly simplified and accelerated. In this article, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide to help you quickly find and rent an apartment using online resources.

Step 1: Define your criteria

Before you start searching, it's important to be clear about what exactly you're looking for. Answer the following questions:

Location: What neighborhood or city do you want to live in?
Budget: How much are you willing to allocate for rent?
Type of accommodation: Apartment, studio, room?
Additional requirements: Availability of furniture, household appliances, parking, pets allowed, etc.

A clear understanding of your criteria will help narrow your search and save time.

Step 2: Select platforms to search

There are many online platforms where you can find ads for apartments. Here are some of them:

Ad aggregators: Avito, Yandex.Immove.
Social networks: Groups on Facebook, VKontakte.
Specialized sites: BelFlat.by, Booking (for short-term rental).
Mobile applications: DomClick, IRR.
Sign up on multiple platforms to have access to more offers.

Step 3: Set up filters and notifications

On most platforms, it is possible to customize filters according to your criteria: price, area, number of rooms, etc. This will help you immediately see only those ads that meet your requirements.

It is also useful to set up notifications for new listings. So you will receive notifications immediately after the publication of new offers, which will increase your chances of finding an apartment faster.

Step 4: Check your landlord's reputation

Check your landlord's reputation before contacting them. Note the following points:

Reviews: See reviews from other tenants, if any.
Listing History: Check how long the landlord posts listings and how often they are updated.
Contact information: Make sure your contact information looks accurate.

Step 5: Contact your landlord

When you find a suitable listing, contact your landlord. Prepare a list of questions that interest you:

Specify the rental terms and cost.
Ask about additional payments (utilities, internet, etc.).
Find out about the possible timing of settlement.
Arrange to view the apartment.

Step 6: Do a virtual or personal scan

Many landlords offer virtual tours of the apartment, which is especially important in a pandemic. If this is not possible, arrange a personal examination. Note the following points:

Condition of the apartment and furniture.
Operability of household appliances.
Availability of all necessary communications.
Condition of the entrance and courtyard.

Step 7: Make a contract

If the apartment suits you, move on to the conclusion of the contract. It is important to carefully read all the conditions and make sure that the contract contains all the important points:

Lease term.
The amount of rent and the timing of its payment.
Utility payment procedure.
Rights and obligations of the parties.

Do not forget to check the landlord's documents for the ownership of the apartment.

Step 8: Moving

After signing the contract and making an advance payment, you can plan a move. Make sure you have all the necessary contacts of the landlord and the management company.

It is quite possible to rent an apartment quickly and without unnecessary hassle if you use the possibilities of the Internet. By following this step-by-step guide, you can significantly simplify the process of finding and renting a home. Remember that key success factors are a clear understanding of your requirements, the use of reliable online resources and an attentive attitude to detail. Successful search and comfortable accommodation!