Renter's Guide

With tips from experts.

Changes at Fannie Mae mean a history of on-time rental payments may make it easier to buy a house.

First came the roaches, then the bed bugs, and last but certainly not least, the mice.

Finance experts weighed in.

Here's what an attorney has to say.

Ever wonder what your neighbor's apartment looks like? This might scratch that itch.

It affords me a freedom that homeownership can't.

They're different from "flex apartments."

On your mark, get set, search.

"I thought owning a home was what responsible adults did.”

There are 3 steps to take.

Move past these common myths to decide if buying a home is right for you.

Learn how to meet new people and (gasp) have fun.

Are there ways buyers and renters can protect themselves from moving into a building with structural issues? Here’s what experts have to say about how you can investigate.

The vast majority of renters obviously aren’t lawyers or experts when it comes to rental agreements, so it can definitely be hard to know what’s a run-of-the-mill lease term and what presents a good reason to back out of a rental agreement.

Sometimes you only get one brief walkthrough before deciding where you’ll live for the next few years.

Some landlords offered their best tips.

Unpacking doesn't have to be stressful.

One leasing agent revealed the major culprits.

It's the paint color everybody loves to hate.

Including an out-of-the-ordinary storage solution.

Consider calling the pros to handle these.

There's a right way to do it.

What gives?

Leave these items at the door.

According to real estate experts.

Here's what I learned I should put on my renter checklist.

Here's what you're on the hook for, even if you don't want to be.

The more you know, the better you can advocate for yourself.

According to a real estate expert.

Here are a few steps to follow while organizing.

Here's when a place is in its best light — in some cases, quite literally.

There are a few special features to look for.

My duster comes with me to every apartment.

Always clean as you go.

Here's what I wished I'd known.

Here's what to know about the eviction crisis.

Renters should prepare for the unexpected.

A literal "panic button" was wired into the wall of one place.

According to an IKEA employee.

It's not always the best option.

Real estate agents have thoughts.

Four things became clear to me.

Bookmark this list — your future self will thank you.

Thinking of moving? Browse this list.

If the place you call home sweet home is a rental, you'll want to check out these companies.

According to real estate agents.

Call it beginner's luck.