I am looking for an apartment in the southern portland or. area and can't visit to screen them. Suggestions?

Question

looking for a 2 bedroom 2 bath in the price range of 850 - 950 and I cant fly out there to actually see them. I dont want to move into a place and find cockroaches and unprofessional staff. I am looking for good referrals and places to stay away from in the Tualatin/Sherwood/Lake Oswego/Tigard areas of Oregon

Answer 1

The best thing to do: Judge them by how the leasing staff acts, and ask a TON of questions. That way you can find out everything about the place, and you can get a better feel for the staff. Here's a few things you should ask:

What utilities are included?
What's the security deposit?
Application fee?
What is the total cost to move in?
Do you accept Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) or other subsidized housing (if they say yes, generally you'll want to stay away)?
Do you allow pets? What kind?
What year was it built? (stay away from anything built pre-1978...laws were enacted in 78 that work in your favor).
Ask about the neighborhood...what kinda stuff is nearby
Are their private entrances to each apartment? If not, are the building entrances locked intercom?
What is the ISO (or other fire safety rating) rating in the building?
What is the crime index of the area?

They may not know all of this stuff, but the ones that will try to answer your questions will be the ones you want to talk too. Forget about any of the places that are pert or rude (obviously).

Also, check www.forrent.com. They have virtual tours of communities around the country you can check out.

Answer 2

Please try www.apartmentsearch.com - it is a free service. There might even be offices in your neighborhood.