NYC Apartment Search

Welcome to NY!

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I have been living at my cousin’s house in Mamaroneck, NY for the past 12 days. It has been quite a ride since May 8th when I left San Antonio behind me to come back to my home state. Much sleep has been lost, tears cried and happiness gained. However that is neither here nor there (it is I’m sure, but I like saying that). As I try to write about user experience, interaction design and the like, one thing has been rearing it’s ugly head. Finding an apartment in New York City. That’s right finding a place to live right in Manhattan.

Apartment searching is never fun nor easy but finding a place in NYC; that brings the experience to a whole other level. Mind you I’ve been warned so my expectations were somewhat set but NO warning or words of advice can prepare you for the chaos that is this apartment search.

So here’s the long and short of it so far. I’ve dealt with fee and no fee apartments. Working with a broker is great! They can actually answer my questions about how much rent is, if there is laundry in the building, help you negotiate… the whole deal. However if the apartment is renter pays the fee then your lump sum is 15% of your yearly rent…. a pretty penny indeed and something to try and avoid if on a budget. HOWEVER if the apartment is no fee, there is usually someone showing the apartment that is not associated with the property management. Some of them are really good and can give you all the info you need and others are really just there to open the door, let you in for 10 mins, and show you out. What I’ve learned is that someone is always paying the fee and if it’s not you there is a reason.

Tomorrow extends my adventure through this maze of rentals. Nine viewings from 11am to about 4pm and I’m hoping there are some leads somewhere. Wish me luck and God’s speed!