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Showing posts from May, 2025

From Renter to Owner: Understanding the Right of First Refusal

RentCafe rental blog If you’re a renter and your landlord suddenly tells you the apartment or house is going up for sale, it might feel like you’re being pushed out with no warning. But, what if you had the chance to secure it before it hit the market? That’s where something called “the right of first refusal” (ROFR)… The post From Renter to Owner: Understanding the Right of First Refusal appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 30, 2025 at 07:09PM

1 in 11 Millionaires Now Rents, Southern Metro Areas Become Hotspots for Luxury Living

RentCafe rental blog In a stunning reversal of traditional wealth patterns, millionaire renters have tripled since 2019, outpacing their homeowning counterparts in one of real estate’s most unexpected trends. While New York and San Francisco remain magnets for affluent tenants, emerging hotspots in Texas and Florida reveal a shift in where America’s wealthiest households choose to live —… The post 1 in 11 Millionaires Now Rents, Southern Metro Areas Become Hotspots for Luxury Living appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 29, 2025 at 12:00PM

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Philadelphia

RentCafe rental blog Renting an apartment in Philadelphia can be a smart move for renters looking for the big-city life without the high costs of placees like New York City or Washington, D.C. Plus, Philly offers a unique mix of history, culture, and affordability that makes it attractive to both locals and newcomers. Whether you’re drawn by the… The post 5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Philadelphia appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 28, 2025 at 03:56PM

Affordable Neighborhoods in Hartford, CT: 3 Great Picks for Renters on a Budget

RentCafe rental blog Thinking about moving to Hartford, CT? Good news! This city has a lot to offer, especially if you’re looking for rental apartments in affordable neighborhoods that won’t drain your bank account. Located almost halfway between New York City and Boston — two of the most expensive cities in the country — Hartford offers a refreshing… The post Affordable Neighborhoods in Hartford, CT: 3 Great Picks for Renters on a Budget appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 26, 2025 at 02:13PM

Public Transport in Chicago – A Renters’ Guide

RentCafe rental blog Chicago is a large, densely populated city with a complex network of neighborhoods and a dynamic job market. For renters — especially those without cars — access to public transportation can be a deciding factor when looking for an apartment in the city. That’s because a well-connected transit system can open up more affordable or… The post Public Transport in Chicago – A Renters’ Guide appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 27, 2025 at 03:07PM

What Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Houston?

RentCafe rental blog When it comes to renting in Houston, there’s a neighborhood for everyone, whether you’re after a trendy area close to work or prefer a quieter, more affordable place to call home. So, if you’re on the hunt for affordable neighborhoods in Houston, you’re in luck. This city has several budget-friendly areas that offer a great… The post What Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Houston? appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 26, 2025 at 10:48AM

Understanding Key Differences Between Short- & Long-Term Leases

RentCafe rental blog When it comes to renting a new place, it’s not all throw pillows and Pinterest boards. One of the first and most important choices you’ll face is whether to sign a short-term lease or a long-term lease. And, trust us, this is more than just a matter of “how long do I want to hang… The post Understanding Key Differences Between Short- & Long-Term Leases appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 23, 2025 at 06:38PM

Is Apartment Cleaning Required Before Moving Out?

RentCafe rental blog When moving out of a rental apartment, many renters ask the same question: Do I really have to clean the place before handing over the keys? It’s a valid concern, especially when juggling moving-day logistics, security deposit worries and the rush to settle into a new home. For landlords, a clean unit means they can… The post Is Apartment Cleaning Required Before Moving Out? appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 23, 2025 at 03:59PM

Breed Restrictions: What Should You Know When Renting With Pets?

RentCafe rental blog Pets are family, and your four-legged buddies are a big factor in major decisions, including renting an apartment. The entire process of searching for the perfect place, applying and anxiously waiting to get approved can become even more of a struggle if the apartment building you’re trying to move into has breed restrictions. However, there… The post Breed Restrictions: What Should You Know When Renting With Pets? appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 22, 2025 at 04:24PM

Peace, Quiet & the Rental Life: Understanding Quiet Enjoyment in Your Lease

RentCafe rental blog Ah, the sweet sound of silence, punctuated only by the chirping of birds or the gentle hum of your favorite show on the TV. Of course, when you’re renting, ensuring your right to that peaceful bliss isn’t just about crossing your fingers and hoping your upstairs neighbor doesn’t take up tap dancing at midnight. Rather,… The post Peace, Quiet & the Rental Life: Understanding Quiet Enjoyment in Your Lease appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 23, 2025 at 12:39PM

Florida, Texas Suburbs Lead Nation In Decade-Long Self Storage Boom

RentCafe rental blog Self storage has evolved into a long-term solution to the growing space constraints caused by rapid population growth, rising housing costs and increasingly compact living arrangements across the U.S. Once viewed as a short-term fix, the industry has firmly established itself as essential infrastructure. Its continued expansion, well beyond the pandemic years, is now driven… The post Florida, Texas Suburbs Lead Nation In Decade-Long Self Storage Boom appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 23, 2025 at 12:00PM

How to Score a Great Deal on a Rental in the Big City Jungle

RentCafe rental blog The big city is where dreams are made, traffic never sleeps and rent prices can make your wallet cry a little inside. Whether you’re moving to New York City, San Francisco, Chicago, or anywhere else with skyline views and 24/7 takeout, finding a great deal on a rental can feel like chasing a unicorn through… The post How to Score a Great Deal on a Rental in the Big City Jungle appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 22, 2025 at 06:14PM

The 100 Largest Self Storage Companies in the U.S.: Who Owns the Market?

RentCafe rental blog The self storage industry in the United States is massive, with nearly 2 billion square feet of rentable space. The 100 largest companies own more than half of that inventory, managing about 15,000 properties out of the nation’s 33,000 large-scale facilities. Key Takeaways: The 100 largest self storage companies own 52% of the US storage… The post The 100 Largest Self Storage Companies in the U.S.: Who Owns the Market? appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 21, 2025 at 05:44PM

13 Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City, as Recommended by the Locals 

RentCafe rental blog As Utah’s capital and largest city, Salt Lake City (SLC) has a fascinating history rooted in Native traditions (the Shoshone, Ute, and Paiute tribes inhabited the Salt Lake Valley long before Europeans arrived), religious migration, and western expansion. Officially founded in 1847 by Brigham Young and other Mormon pioneers seeking religious freedom, SLC was somewhat… The post 13 Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City, as Recommended by the Locals  appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 21, 2025 at 01:38PM

The LA Arts Scene: 15 Must-See Recommendations from Those Who Live and Work There 

RentCafe rental blog LA is one of the most incredibly diverse cities in the world, and its art reflects that. Whether you’re interested in classical painting or sculpture, interior design and architecture, or cutting-edge contemporary works, artists in LA often draw from lived experience and identity. You’ll find experimental, globally influential, and decentralized works (all at once), from… The post The LA Arts Scene: 15 Must-See Recommendations from Those Who Live and Work There  appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 21, 2025 at 01:15PM

Red Flags to Keep in Mind when Moving to Another Apartment in a Rush

RentCafe rental blog Renters know that finding the right apartment building can be tricky. From loud neighbors to smelly roommates, a lot can go wrong. And if you’ve already signed a lease, getting out of your situation can be complicated.  Whether you’re a prospective first-time home buyer who’s renting while they save up a down payment, or a… The post Red Flags to Keep in Mind when Moving to Another Apartment in a Rush appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 21, 2025 at 12:34PM

What Are Apartment Utilities & How Much Will They Cost Me?

RentCafe rental blog This article was updated in May 2025. What Is the Average Electric Bill? Tips for Saving Money on Your Electricity Bill What Is the Average Gas Bill? Tips for Saving Money on Your Gas Bill What Is the Average Internet Bill? Tips for Saving Money on Your Internet Bill What Is the Average Water Bill?… The post What Are Apartment Utilities & How Much Will They Cost Me? appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 17, 2025 at 12:34PM

Self Storage Rates Begin to Level Off in March After Steep February Drop

RentCafe rental blog Key Takeaways: Nationwide, self storage street rates dipped 0.7% year-over-year in March 2025 — a smaller drop than the sharper decline seen the month before. The steepest price cuts showed up in the South and Southeast, with cities like Frisco, TX, Fayetteville, NC, and Clarksville, TN, leading the way. St. Petersburg, FL, stood out once… The post Self Storage Rates Begin to Level Off in March After Steep February Drop appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 16, 2025 at 08:16PM

What Renters Need to Know About Theft Protection

RentCafe rental blog Feeling safe where you live is one of those things that makes everyday life run more smoothly. When you know your space and your belongings are secure, it’s easier to relax, focus, and enjoy your routine, no matter if you’re working from home, heading out to work, or just streaming your favorite show after a… The post What Renters Need to Know About Theft Protection appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 15, 2025 at 06:45PM

When (& How) Should You Return Keys to Your Landlord?

RentCafe rental blog Returning the keys to your rental apartment may seem like a small step in the moving-out process, but it can have major consequences if overlooked or done incorrectly. For renters, understanding when and how to return keys to your landlord is essential to officially end a lease and avoid unnecessary headaches. That’s because if you… The post When (& How) Should You Return Keys to Your Landlord? appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 15, 2025 at 03:42PM

Cost of Living in San Diego: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

RentCafe rental blog Figuring out where to live is just part of relocating to a new city. The real challenge? Understanding how much it’s going to cost to live your everyday life once you get there. From rent and groceries to transportation and entertainment, getting familiar with the cost of living in your new city is key to… The post Cost of Living in San Diego: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 14, 2025 at 12:53PM

What’s the Cost of Living in Boston? Here’s What to Expect as a Renter

RentCafe rental blog Understanding the cost of living in Boston is key for renters planning a move to the city. From housing to health care, daily expenses in Boston can look very different compared to other places in Massachusetts or around the nation. Fortunately, knowing what to expect can help renters avoid financial stress and choose a rental… The post What’s the Cost of Living in Boston? Here’s What to Expect as a Renter appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 12, 2025 at 03:21PM

Apartment Hunting in Miami? Ask These 5 Essential Questions First

RentCafe rental blog Searching for apartments in Miami might feel like a full-time job, especially since Miami has long been the hottest rental market in the U.S., with demand outpacing supply throughout the year. Whether you’re browsing apartment listings in the middle of summer or the start of a new year, you’ll likely face sky-high competition and quick… The post Apartment Hunting in Miami? Ask These 5 Essential Questions First appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 09, 2025 at 07:02PM

How to Tell Your Landlord You’re Moving Out

RentCafe rental blog You’ve researched, crunched the numbers, toured the listings, and finally found the one — a rental apartment that checks all the boxes: ideal location, reasonable rent, and just the right mix of amenities. When a rental feels like home before you even move in, you know it’s time to act fast. Securing that dream apartment… The post How to Tell Your Landlord You’re Moving Out appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 09, 2025 at 05:14PM

The “Meet Your Neighbors” Strategy: How to Introduce Yourself in a New Building

RentCafe rental blog There’s something both exciting and nerve-wracking about those first days in a new apartment. You’ve unpacked the basics, figured out your appliances’ settings, and investigated the best takeout in the area. But there’s one thing you may overlook when settling in: getting to know your new neighbors.  You’re sharing walls, elevators, and mailrooms, but how… The post The “Meet Your Neighbors” Strategy: How to Introduce Yourself in a New Building appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 09, 2025 at 04:00PM

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Sacramento, CA

RentCafe rental blog If you’re searching for an affordable California city with career opportunities, outdoor access and a strong sense of community, Sacramento should be on your radar. Compared to places like San Francisco or Los Angeles, apartments in Sacramento tend to be more reasonably priced while still offering the California lifestyle that many renters desire. That affordability… The post 5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Sacramento, CA appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 08, 2025 at 05:28PM

The ‘Sweet Spot’ Timing: When to Start Your Apartment Search for a Summer Move

RentCafe rental blog Whether you’re relocating for a new job, school, or simply craving a change of scenery, summer is one of the most popular times to pack up and settle into a new place. But, if you think you can just waltz into your dream apartment with nothing but flip-flops and a good attitude, think again. The… The post The ‘Sweet Spot’ Timing: When to Start Your Apartment Search for a Summer Move appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 08, 2025 at 03:59PM

Washington, D.C., Leads Cities That Built Most New Downtown Apartments

RentCafe rental blog New apartment construction continues to break records, but in recent years, developers have gradually shifted focus from bustling downtowns to outlying areas. This shift mirrors how people are rethinking where — and how — they want to live due to flexible work arrangements and lifestyle changes. Still, there’s a lot to love about downtown living.… The post Washington, D.C., Leads Cities That Built Most New Downtown Apartments appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 08, 2025 at 12:00PM

5 Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Fort Worth, TX

RentCafe rental blog Fort Worth is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas — and it’s easy to see why. It offers a unique mix of big-city amenities and small-town comfort, with a thriving arts scene, cowboy history, and access to nature. The city is also home to a wide variety of rental apartments, making it an attractive… The post 5 Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Fort Worth, TX appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 08, 2025 at 01:23PM

Apartment Hunting on a Budget in NYC? Here Are 5 Affordable Neighborhoods to Explore in Queens

RentCafe rental blog The dream of living in New York City often comes with a hefty price tag, and finding an affordable apartment can feel like searching for the mythical unicorn. The Big Apple consistently tops the lists of the most expensive cities in the U.S., and the borough of Queens is no exception. While it dishes up… The post Apartment Hunting on a Budget in NYC? Here Are 5 Affordable Neighborhoods to Explore in Queens appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 07, 2025 at 07:29PM

Self Storage Hotspots of 2025: Where Americans Are Searching For Extra Space

RentCafe rental blog Key Takeaways: Based on searches per 10,000 residents, cities like Baton Rouge, LA, Reno, NV, and Las Vegas, NV top the list, showing the strongest demand for self storage relative to local population size. Specialty storage needs — such as RV and car storage—are also popular, particularly in the West and Southwest, where car ownership… The post Self Storage Hotspots of 2025: Where Americans Are Searching For Extra Space appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 07, 2025 at 01:36PM

Self Storage in Texas Continues to Thrive: New Developments and Growing Demand

RentCafe rental blog Texas accounted for 12% of all U.S. self storage construction in both 2023 and 2024 Fort Worth led the state in 2024 deliveries with 564,000 square feet — but expects just 115,000 square feet in 2025 In the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Princeton delivered 42% of its total storage inventory in 2024, yet demand continues to… The post Self Storage in Texas Continues to Thrive: New Developments and Growing Demand appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 07, 2025 at 12:53PM

Your Go-To Guide for Moving to a New City During Peak Rental Season

RentCafe rental blog Moving to a new city during peak rental season is almost like hopping on a rollercoaster — it’s exhilarating, heart-pounding, and maybe even a little bit scary. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Whether you’re chasing a dream job, embarking on an educational journey, or simply craving a change of scenery, we’ll guide you… The post Your Go-To Guide for Moving to a New City During Peak Rental Season appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 02, 2025 at 12:08PM

Renter Engagement Tracker: Washington, D.C. Ranks 1st With South Claiming Half of Top 30

RentCafe rental blog Key Takeaways: Washington, D.C., emerges as the top city for rental activity in the first quarter. Las Vegas and Fort Lauderdale, FL, jump 88 and 71 spots, respectively, from last year. The South dominates with 15 cities in the top 30 — yet the top 10 is led by the Midwest with seven entries. With… The post Renter Engagement Tracker: Washington, D.C. Ranks 1st With South Claiming Half of Top 30 appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 06, 2025 at 11:40AM

Finding Affordable Neighborhoods in New York City: 5 Areas to Consider in the Bronx

RentCafe rental blog New York — the city of big dreams, bright lights, and… sky-high rents. Finding an apartment that doesn’t consume your entire paycheck can feel like searching for a hidden treasure, especially for renters on a tight budget. While New York City’s boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens often grab the headlines for their sky-high living… The post Finding Affordable Neighborhoods in New York City: 5 Areas to Consider in the Bronx appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . May 05, 2025 at 01:57PM