Articles by
Adina Dragos
Adina Dragos is a real estate writer and research analyst with RentCafe. She has solid experience in real estate writing, covering topics ranging from best cities for renters and the top cities for rental activity to cost of living. Her work was featured in several prominent media channels such as Axios, The Dallas Morning News, ConnectCRE and The New York Times.
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Lease violations: What you need to know now
Entering a rental agreement marks the beginning of a shared understanding between a landlord and a renter. Both parties take on responsibilities meant to create…
Holiday apartment hunt bingo: A fun way to track tours and listings
Searching for the right place to rent during the holiday season can feel like juggling festive obligations, travel plans, and time-sensitive viewings all at once….
6 essential things to check when touring apartments in winter
Finding the perfect apartment can be a challenge any time of the year, but winter presents its own unique set of challenges. Touring apartments in…
The top new features RentCafe.com launched in 2025 for easier, more enjoyable renting
This year we spent a lot of time reflecting and acting upon one question: How can we make your renting journey easier, smarter, and more enjoyable? As a result, we rolled out several new features designed to save you…
What are the top zip codes in Atlanta for new apartments?
Atlanta’s rental market has evolved significantly, with nearly 67,000 new apartments built in the last decade. In fact, 38,000 of them were built in five zip…
A renter’s guide to where new Austin, TX apartments are located
Austin has transformed into one of America’s fastest-growing cities, with construction activity reflecting surging demand from tech workers, students, and relocating professionals. With nearly 100,000…
Top zip codes in Charlotte, NC, for new rental options
Charlotte’s rental market has evolved significantly, with over 71,000 new apartments built over the past decade. This building boom reflects the city’s sustained growth as…
The Queens, NY zip codes with the most new apartments
In the past decade, Queens reinforced its status as a vital part of New York City’s future by adding an estimated 24,000 new apartments to…
Where Los Angeles, CA renters can find the newest apartments
Over the past decade, Los Angeles has seen a big boom in apartment construction. More than 71,000 new apartments were completed in the last decade,…
Where new apartments are opening in Houston, TX
Houston’s landscape is evolving at a breakneck pace, driven by a decade of intense residential construction. The city witnessed the completion of close to 100,000…
A renter’s guide to where new apartments are rising in Chicago, IL
Chicago has seen a major wave of new apartment construction over the past decade, with more than 52,900 new apartments completed across 25 zip codes….
Where can renters find the newest apartments in Brooklyn, NY?
If you’re looking for a foothold in New York City’s challenging rental market, all roads lead to Brooklyn. The borough has seen a remarkable construction…
5 questions to ask before renting an apartment in Tampa, FL
Renting an apartment in Tampa comes with big perks. The city continues to grow, but it still keeps its coastal charm, warm winters, and relaxed…
Where Portland, OR renters can find the newest apartments
Portland’s skyline is changing fast, with nearly 32,000 new apartments built in the last decade — a surge that follows a nationwide trend. For renters…
Moving to Omaha? Discover the average cost of living before you rent
From housing and groceries to utilities and healthcare, every city has its own cost profile, and most renters want to know what day-to-day life will…
Living in Harrisburg, PA: What the average cost of living means for renters
Starting fresh in a new city can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out how far your paycheck will go. Renters across the…
Upgrade your apartment search with RentCafe.com’s new features
When you’re searching for a new rental, you want everything to go smoothly. That’s why the RentCafe.com team is excited to introduce new features that…
Apartment etiquette for Thanksgiving hosts: How to celebrate in shared spaces
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and food and laughter. But for those who live in apartment buildings, hosting a Thanksgiving dinner can present…
What to expect during a routine apartment inspection
Living in an apartment means sharing responsibility for the space you call home. While you enjoy the comfort and convenience of renting, your landlord or…
How to get approved as a first-time renter: Your complete guide to landing your first apartment
As a first-time renter, you’re stepping into a world full of applications, background checks, and credit verifications that may seem unfamiliar at first. While renting…
Cost of living in Colorado Springs, CO: What to expect when living here as a renter
Between searching for apartments, estimating living expenses, and adjusting to a new area, there’s a lot to think about for renters trying to budget for…
How to build rental references when you have none
Finding your next home can be stressful, especially if you’re applying for your first apartment or moving somewhere new without a rental history. One of…
Navigating a lease break when relocating for a job
Relocating for a new job can be exciting — an opportunity for growth, adventure, and a fresh start in a new city. Yet for many…
A renter’s guide to public transport in Baltimore, MD
Finding the right apartment often comes down to location, convenience, and how easily you can get around. For renters moving to Charm City, understanding the…
RentCafe.com’s new features: The Rent vs. Buy Calculator makes math easy
Deciding whether to rent or buy a home is one of the biggest financial choices many of us face and it’s not always easy to…
A Renters’ Guide to Public Transport in Milwaukee, WI
When moving to a new city, one of the first things renters often consider — beyond the apartment itself — is how they’ll get around….
A Renter’s Guide to Navigating Sacramento Without a Car
Renting in a new city comes with many decisions, and one of the biggest is how you’ll get around. For renters in Sacramento, public transit…
The Importance of a Roommate Agreement for Peaceful Shared Living
Sharing a home can be an enriching and affordable experience, but it also comes with challenges. Different lifestyles, habits, and financial situations can lead to…
Big News From RentCafe.com: Notifications & My Account Preferences Are Here!
Renting is a journey, and RentCafe.com is here to make it easier — and maybe even a little enjoyable. That’s why we’ve introduced two new…
5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Las Vegas
Las Vegas offers plenty of rental options, from modern high-rises near the Strip to quieter apartments in suburban neighborhoods like Summerlin or Henderson. Many renters…