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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Close up of a person holding a pen and signing a document to illustrate a lease renewal.

10 Things to Know About Lease Renewal: A Renter’s Guide to Making the Right Move

Across the U.S., more renters are choosing to stay put rather than move. Unless relocation is absolutely necessary, staying often feels like the more comfortable…

View of a luxury rooftop pool with sun loungers and umbrellas to illustrate apartment amenities.

What Apartment Amenities Matter Most When Renting in the City vs. the Suburbs

Sure, location is often top priority when renting, but apartment amenities are not far behind. Whether you’re renting in the heart of a busy city…

5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Renting in Washington, D.C.

Renting an apartment in Washington, D.C., comes with some serious perks. As the nation’s capital, the city offers a steady flow of job opportunities in…

View of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA skyline over Barrier Island to illustrate the cost of living in Fort Lauderdale.

What Renters Need to Know About the Cost of Living in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Moving to a new city? That’s a big step, full of exciting possibilities. For renters, it’s a chance to discover new neighborhoods, connect with different…

A neon post-it on a notebook with the "pay rent" message written on it to illustrate a late rent notice.

How to Handle a Rent Payment Delay Without Hurting Your Credit Score

Budgeting and making sure you always pay your rent on time can be stressful. Whether it’s due to a temporary job loss, an unexpected medical…

Philadelphia's skyline with skyscrapers and a purple sky in the background to illustrate renting an apartment in Philadelphia.

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Philadelphia

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…

The skyline of downtown Houston, Texas, with trees and green spaces in front to illustrate the most affordable neighborhoods for renters.

What Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Houston?

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,…

The skyline of Jersey City, NJ, where renters can find affordable neighborhoods.

Looking for Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods in Jersey City, NJ? Here Are 5 Options

Finding affordable neighborhoods that offer a great living experience can be a challenge if you’re renting in Jersey City, NJ. In fact, North Jersey is…

The upper side of a building under construction and part of a crane.

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

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…

looking for an apartment

Looking for an Apartment to Rent? Here’s the Ultimate Checklist

Searching for an apartment for rent can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to start. Luckily, there are many online tools…

close-up of a man's hands holding a cardboard box with the words 'moving day' written on it

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

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…

most affordable neighborhoods in philadelphia

Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, continues to be a magnet for renters in the Northeast, offering a lively urban experience without the sky-high prices…

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…