Checks and research before signing a lease.
This category covers how to screen landlords, tenants, and properties. Learn how to verify listings, assess rental history, check neighborhood safety, and avoid common rental traps.
Find out the minimum legal age to sign a lease in the U.S., exceptions, state-specific nuances, and what younger renters can do to qualify.
Renting an apartment typically requires documentation — but what happens if you don’t have standard paperwork like a Social Security Number, ID, proof of income, or credit history? Whether you're a recent immigrant, an international student, or simply in a transitional situation, the question arises: Can you still rent without documents? The answer is: it’s difficult, but not impossible.
Before signing a lease, learn how to verify your landlord’s reliability. These 8 smart steps will help you avoid rental nightmares and protect your rights.