Articles by

Alexandra Both

Alexandra Both is a senior creative writer with RentCafe. She has more than six years of real estate writing experience as a senior editor with Commercial Property Executive and Multi-Housing News. She is a seasoned journalist, who has previously worked in print, online and broadcast media. Alexandra has a B.A. in Journalism and an M.A. in Community Development.

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The skyline of Downtown Seattle and a ferry as part of public transport in Seattle.

Getting Around Without a Car: A Renter’s Guide to Public Transport in Seattle

Are you considering a move to Seattle and hoping you won’t need a car to get around? Good news! Public transport in Seattle is among…

Aerial view of Atlanta's skyline, a place where renters can find luxury apartments at lower rents.

5 Zip Codes for Luxury Apartments at Lower Rents in Atlanta

Atlanta‘s reputation rests on its robust economy, diverse cultural offerings, and energetic nightlife. While the city provides a selection of luxury apartments with desirable amenities…

Hands of a renter typing on a laptop and applying for multiple apartments at once.

Can You Apply for Multiple Apartments at the Same Time?

Searching for a new apartment can be stressful, especially in a competitive rental market where you’re up against several other hopeful renters. If this is…

The hands of renters and a lease cosigner around a table as they prepare to sign a rental agreement.

Rent With Financial Confidence: How a Lease Cosigner Can Strengthen Your Application

Looking for an apartment but worrying about whether your application will be accepted? That’s where a lease cosigner can step in to help. Whether you…

The skyline of Baltimore in dayligh along the inner harbor.

Renting in Baltimore? Here Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods to Explore

Baltimore’s history is everywhere, mixed with the energy of its neighborhoods and the rhythm of its working harbor. This is a city of opportunity, where…

The skyline of Milwaukee along the waterfront.

Here Are 5 Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a city known for its rich history, strong sense of community, and growing economy. Plus, as a hotspot in the Midwest, it offers…

View of the Financial District in Boston and Boston Harbor.

What Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Boston?

Boston is one of the most exciting cities to live in, but it’s no secret that renting here can be expensive. With its rich history,…

Close-up of apartment buildings models and two people sitting at a desk, discussing renter rights.

What to Do When Your Apartment Changes Ownership Mid-Lease

Imagine settling into your apartment, only to receive notice that your landlord is selling the property. This scenario is more common than you might think,…

An illustration of proof of income.

What Is Proof of Income? A Complete Guide for Renters

When you’re on the hunt for a new apartment, you’ll quickly discover that landlords require more than just your signature on an application. One of…

A room full of boxes and packed things, ready for moving.

More Than Half of Moves Are Driven by Housing, With Affordability Behind 1 in 10 Relocations

Whether seeking better-quality homes, lower costs, or simply moving out on their own for the first time, housing remains the top reason Americans relocate. In…

Close up of a man's hands holding money and calculating a rental application fee on a calculator.

Everything Renters Need to Know About Rental Application Fees

If you’re deep into your apartment search journey, you’ve probably noticed that landlords and property managers require a fee when you apply. Rental application fees…

New modern apartment building in a green area.

Should You Rent in a New or Older Apartment Building?

When searching for your new happy place, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to live in a brand-new apartment or in an…

A colorful living room in an upscale apartment with a dark green sofa and armchairs.

Luxury for Less: Best Zip Codes for Upscale Living at Lower Rents

An attractive apartment with desirable amenities, in a nice neighborhood, at a reasonable monthly rent. Many renters dream of such a combination, but few know…

Future tenants or first time buyers meeting real estate agent and doin an apartment tour. Boyfriend and girlfriend buying new home. Husband and wife looking at modern white wooden cupboards in kitchen.

Maximize Your In-Person Apartment Tour: Tips for a Successful Visit

If you’re looking for your new happy place — an apartment for rent that matches your needs — scrolling through online listings and watching virtual…

Close up of a rental application form and a pen.

How to Fill Out a Rental Application That Stands Out

If you’re looking for your next happy place, you probably already know that competition can be fierce — especially in hot rental markets. Landlords and…

The skyline of Miami, FL, from Biscayne Bay at dusk.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Miami

Miami’s allure is undeniable. From the Art Deco architecture of South Beach to the Cuban rhythms of Little Havana, the city pulsates with energy. However,…

View of the backyard of a garden-style apartment building in suburban area at Texas, US.

What Is a Garden-Style Apartment? A Popular Option for Renters Seeking Quiet Spaces

When searching for a new apartment, many renters yearn for a blend of comfort, tranquility, and greenery — qualities often missing in high-rise complexes or…

Magnifying glass and miniature wooden buildings to symbolize searching for an apartment for rent.

60 Days to Move-In: Your Week-by-Week Apartment Hunting Timeline

Searching for an apartment for rent can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re on a tight deadline. We don’t always get the chance to take our…

The skyline of Reno, NV, on a clear day.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Reno, NV

Reno, NV, is one of the most sought-after cities by renters thanks to its unique combination of urban excitement and easy access to outdoor adventures….

Skyline of Salt Lake City downtown in Utah with Wasatch Range Mountains in the background.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City offers renters stunning mountain vistas, a booming economy, and a lively community. However, the cost of living here is 9% higher than…

Young man moving in new home among boxes having doubts, with a confused face expression.

Should You Stay or Should You Go? A Renter’s Guide to Lease Renewals in 2025

As your lease expiration date approaches, you’re faced with a crucial decision: Should you opt for a lease renewal or pack your bags and find…

The skyline of downtown St. Paul and the Mississippi River.

Cost of Living in St. Paul, MN: What Renters Need to Know

Moving to a new city can be tough, especially if you’re renting. You need to find the right place, get used to the area, and…

Moving house, relocation. Woman holds key with house keychain in new apartment.

The Great Reshuffling Revisited: Why Are Americans Moving?

A little more than 24 million Americans moved last year — the lowest number in the last 25 years. A new or improved home remains…

how to find affordable apartments - nice apartment with furniture and decorations in neutral tones with warm lighting

How to Find Affordable Apartments: A Renter’s Guide

As a renter, landing a budget-friendly yet quality apartment means strategic planning and savvy research. Or just incredible luck. Looking for ways to snag that…

Unhappy young woman on a sofa wearing a Santa hat and looking for some holiday fun away from her loved ones.

Holiday Fun Without the FOMO: The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating Away From Loved Ones

Are you feeling the holiday blues because you can’t host a massive family gathering in your rental? Or maybe you’re frustrated that you can’t travel…

The renter and landlord shake hands after successfully negotiating rent.

How to Negotiate Rent: Simple Tips and Effective Strategies

Renting a home can strain your budget, but negotiating rent is a possibility many renters overlook. While not every landlord will agree to lower the…

The Washington Monument and Thomas Jefferson Memorial reflecting in the Tidal Basin, Washington, DC.

Best Museums in Washington, DC: 5 Hidden Gems Beyond the National Mall

The nation’s capital is one of the most sought-after cities by renters, and it’s easy to see why. In fact, few other places in the…

Family with little daughter resting on sofa in living room of a family-friendly apartment.

How to Find the Best Family-Friendly Apartments

As parents searching for the perfect home, finding family-friendly apartments requires careful consideration of various factors beyond the monthly rent. Whether you’re relocating or seeking…

Empty room with white walls and parquet floor, striped blue wallpaper on the wall. Rental-friendly upgrades that can be easily implemented.

Rental-Friendly Upgrades for a More Welcoming Apartment

Renters often dream of transforming their apartments into cozy and welcoming homes, yet many hesitate because they don’t want to risk their security deposits or…

Male arm in suit offer insurance form clipped to pad and silver pen to sign a renters insurance.

Is Renters Insurance Required? Here’s What You Need to Know

As a renter, you’ve probably heard the term “renters insurance” thrown around. But what exactly does it mean, and more importantly, is renters insurance required?…