Articles by

Veronica Grecu

Veronica Grecu is a senior creative writer and researcher for RentCafe. With more than 10 years of experience in the real estate industry, she covers a variety of topics in residential and commercial real estate, including trends and industry news. Previously, she was involved in producing content for Multi-Housing News, Commercial Property Executive and Yardi Matrix. Veronica’s academic background includes a B.A. in Applied Modern Languages and an M.A. in Advertising and PR.

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Contemporary apartment buildings in an urban setting, showcasing sleek architecture, large windows, and private balconies—illustrating the modern appeal of renting new apartments.

Modern Living or Hidden Hassles? The Pros and Cons of Renting New Apartments

If you’ve ever walked into a freshly built unit with gleaming countertops, pristine floors, and that new-home smell, you know the appeal of brand-new apartments….

Person using a laptop with digital icons over model houses, symbolizing the rental application approval process.

What Happens While You’re Waiting for Approval on Your Rental Application?

So, you’ve just applied for a rental apartment — exciting times ahead, right? But now you’re stuck in that waiting phase after submitting your rental…

Modern waterfront apartments in Vancouver, WA, with scenic river views, a walking path, and lush autumn foliage. Find affordable neighborhoods in Vancouver WA.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Vancouver, WA

For renters seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience in the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver, WA, is a standout choice. Nestled along the Columbia River and just a…

Hands holding a rental application letter with a bold red 'denied' stamp, indicating rejection after a rental application form submission.

Here’s What to Do in Case You Received a Rental Application Denial Letter

In today’s competitive rental market, finding the perfect apartment can sometimes feel like hitting the jackpot. After countless property tours, neighborhood research, and budget calculations,…

Downtown Austin skyline with high-rise buildings, highlighting areas where luxury apartments can be rented for less.

5 Austin Zip Codes Where You Can Find Luxury Apartments at Lower Rents

Dreaming of upscale living in Austin, TX, but dreading the sky-high rents? You’re not alone. Beyond having a fancy mail address, living in a luxury…

Las Vegas skyline with hotels and casinos, highlighting the city's entertainment vibe. Find affordable neighborhoods for renters in Las Vegas.

Looking for Budget-Friendly Rentals in Las Vegas? Here Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods to Consider

Las Vegas is famous for its world-class entertainment, buzzing nightlife, and growing job market. But beyond the bright neon lights of the Strip, the city…

A happy couple relaxes and laughs on a cozy beige couch in their stylish apartment, embodying what makes a good renter—respectful, responsible, and enjoying their well-maintained living space.

Tips for Getting Approved for an Apartment (Beyond a Standout Rental Application)

Navigating a sea of apartments to find your happy place is only half the battle these days. Securing one? That’s where things tend to get…

Newark, NJ, skyline at sunset, showcasing the city's mix of historic and modern buildings — an appealing destination for renters looking for affordable neighborhoods.

Renting in Newark on a Budget? Check Out These Affordable Neighborhoods

If you’re searching for affordable neighborhoods in cities in the Northeast, Newark, NJ, is a solid choice for renters. Just a stone’s throw from the…

A contemporary apartment building with balconies, featuring a sleek design and neutral tones, set against a clear blue sky.

Hottest Rental Markets in Early 2025: Chicagoland’s Rise Challenges Miami

At the start of 2025, the Midwest emerged as the most competitive region for apartment-hunters with 10 metros in the top 20. In particular, Suburban…

A busy city street with blurred pedestrians crossing at a crosswalk during sunset, symbolizing the fast-paced nature of securing an apartment in a competitive rental market.

How to Secure Apartments in Red-Hot Rental Markets (Before They’re Gone)

Finding the perfect apartment — the ideal blend of location, price, and amenities — can feel like winning the lottery. But in today’s competitive rental…

Renter sitting at a table, reading a notice to vacate or eviction letter with a concerned expression.

What’s the Difference Between Notice to Vacate and Eviction Letter?

Renting an apartment comes with plenty of responsibilities — and for first-time renters, the legal jargon can be overwhelming. Between lease agreements, maintenance requests, and…

A view of Brooklyn's iconic Brooklyn Bridge with affordable neighborhoods in the foreground, perfect for New Yorkers on a budget.

5 Affordable Neighborhoods in Brooklyn for New Yorkers on a Budget

New York City has long been one of America’s most expensive rental markets, with sky-high prices that can make finding housing in affordable neighborhoods feel…

Find affordable neighborhoods in Seattle, WA. Seattle skyline featuring the Space Needle and high-rise buildings illuminated by golden sunlight against a clear blue sky.

5 Wallet-Friendly Neighborhoods to Rent in Seattle

Seattle is an amazing place to live, offering a strong job market, stunning waterfront views, and an unbeatable food and coffee culture. But there’s no…

Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, skyline featuring modern high-rises with apartments, historic buildings, beautiful autumn foliage, and a colorful sunset.

Which Are Some of the Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI?

Renting in the Midwest has never been more popular, and Grand Rapids, MI, is no exception. As apartment hunters flock to cities across the region,…

A renter's hand holding an apartment key with a small house keychain, with a modern apartment building in the background.

Tired of Waiting on Landlords’ Approval? Fast-Track Your Rental Application in 10 Easy Steps

Finding the perfect rental apartment can feel like winning the lottery — until you realize how quickly those “perfect” listings disappear. Let’s face it, we’ve…

Toronto skyline at sunrise, featuring the iconic CN Tower and modern high-rises, highlighting the city’s status as a major renter hub in Canada.

Canada’s Trending Cities for Renters: Winnipeg Holds Onto 1st Spot at the Start of 2025, Toronto Moves Up in the Rankings

Apartment searches in Canada experienced a seasonal decline at the start of 2025, a trend typically seen during the winter months in the Great White…

Detroit skyline at sunrise, showcasing a city where renters can still find affordable neighborhoods.

What Are Some of the Best Affordable Neighborhoods to Rent in Detroit?

Searching for affordable neighborhoods to rent in a major U.S. city? Detroit — a place of resilience, reinvention, and deep-rooted community pride — might be…

Colorado State Capitol Building & the City of Denver Colorado at Sunset. Rocky Mountains on the Horizon. Find affordable neighborhoods in Denver, CO.

Moving to Denver in 2025? Explore the Best Affordable Neighborhoods to Consider

Denver, a dynamic city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, offers a fantastic quality of life. However, like many large urban hubs, the…

Apartment For Rent sign as Real Estate promotional billboard marketing the rental of apartments or apartment listings with an agent or landlord.

First-Time Renters’ Guide to Decoding Apartment Listings Lingo

Finding the perfect apartment in a sea of offerings can feel like navigating a maze, no matter if you’re new to renting or you’ve already…

Sunset view of downtown Minneapolis, MN, featuring the Stone Arch Bridge, Mississippi River, and the city skyline.

Minneapolis’ Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters on a Budget

Minneapolis has been a standout destination for apartment hunters, and it’s easy to see why. In 2024, the city consistently ranked as the most sought-after…

A young woman sits thoughtfully on a teal ottoman with a laptop, against a background displaying a credit score meter and the score 827 highlighted, accompanied by positive emojis.

Credit Score Basics for Renters: What You Need to Know in 2025

As the peak rental season is getting closer, your credit score becomes more important than ever. Whether you’re renting for the first time or you’re…

Wooden miniature houses with a large red location pin marker against a gray background simbolizing the concept of address change for renters moving to a new place.

How to Change Your Address and Forward Mail When You Move to a New Place

Moving to a new rental apartment is an exciting chapter, but it comes with its fair share of logistics. One crucial task that often slips…

Illustration of navigating challenges and finding solutions, symbolizing the process of breaking a lease early.

Here’s What You Need to Know If You Want to Break the Lease Early

When renting, breaking the lease on your apartment can feel like a big step — and it’s not always an easy one. Maybe you’re moving…

Aerial view of downtown Fayetteville, NC, showcasing historic buildings and tree-lined streets. Renters can find affordable neighborhoods in Fayetteville, NC.

Here Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Fayetteville, NC

Renting in Fayetteville, NC, offers a unique combination of affordability and convenience, making it an attractive place to call home. With an overall cost of…

Residential building. bottom view. Modern apartment building on a sunny day. Facade of a modern apartment building.

2024 in Review: Top Insights Renters Need to Know

In 2024, the real estate market has experienced notable transformations. So, to provide renters with a comprehensive understanding of the latest market dynamics, we have…

Three Gen Z friends smiling and enjoying city life together.

5 Tips for Gen Z Renters Living in Expensive Cities

Living in a major city has undeniable perks, especially for Gen Z renters. These bustling urban centers offer unparalleled access to cultural hotspots, career opportunities,…

"Washington, D.C. cityscape at sunset. The city offers some affordable neighborhoods with rents below $2,000 per month.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Washington, DC

Looking for apartments in Washington, D.C., can feel like a real challenge, especially with the city’s cost of living sitting a steep 47% above the…

A modern apartment building with balconies and large windows.

2024 Year-End Report: Miami’s Competitiveness Wanes With Suburban Chicago and Milwaukee Closing In

The Midwest stands out as a red-hot region for renters in 2024, with five markets in the nation’s top 10 and two on the podium…

Torn paper revealing a close-up of dollar bills, symbolizing the hidden costs of renting an apartment.

The Hidden Costs of Renting an Apartment: What You Need to Know Before Signing a Lease

Renting an apartment is the preferred housing choice for millions of Americans, with Gen Z leading the way as the only renter-majority generation. Of course,…

Downtown St. Paul, MN skyline with greenery and the Mississippi River in the foreground. Find the best affordable neighborhoods in St. Paul, MN.

What Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in St. Paul, MN?

Looking for rental apartments in a city that blends charm, character, and affordability? St. Paul, MN, has you covered! Renting here offers a lot of…