In New York, nearly half of property buyers (47%) look for homes online, with 18% reaching out to a real estate agent. Additionally, 80% of buyers find property descriptions and photos extremely helpful online. This indicates a growing trend of people using real estate websites to discover their ideal homes.
A high-quality real estate website can boost your chances of receiving an offer, but it often comes with a steep 6% agent commission. However, choosing to sell your home “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) can eliminate the listing agent fee, leaving you responsible for only the buyer’s agent commission, typically 3%.
Looking for an apartment in New York City can be a daunting task, with the vast array of options and neighborhoods to consider. Fortunately, there are several websites that can help streamline your search and find the perfect apartment for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio in Manhattan or a spacious loft in Brooklyn, these websites have you covered.
When looking for apartments in NYC, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to ensure you find the right place for your needs:
1. Budget: Establish your budget and adhere to it. Account for rent, utilities, transportation, and other living expenses in NYC.
2. Location: Choose a neighborhood that suits your lifestyle, with easy access to work, school, or recreation, prioritizing safety, public transport, and nearby amenities.
3. Size and Layout: Determine the size of the apartment you need based on your living situation. Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall square footage.
4. Amenities: Consider the amenities offered in the building, such as a doorman, gym, laundry facilities, or outdoor space, and decide which are important to you.
5. Pet Policy: If you have pets or plan to get one, make sure to check the building’s pet policy and any associated fees or restrictions.
6. Maintenance and Repairs: Inquire about how maintenance and repairs are handled in the building and how quickly issues are addressed.
7. Lease Terms: Understand the lease terms, including the length of the lease, security deposit requirements, and any additional fees or charges.
The Website Itself:
1. Reputation: Search for reputable websites with a proven history of reliability. Review online feedback to gauge the experiences of previous renters.
2. Search Functionality: A user-friendly interface with clear filters and search options will save you time and frustration.
3. Accuracy of Listings: Ensure the site updates listings regularly to avoid disappointment. Consider sites that verify listings or have a recent posting date.
4. Fees: Some websites charge a fee for renters, while others make their money from landlords. Understand the cost structure before signing up.
Additional Considerations:
1. Availability of Virtual Tours: In today’s world, virtual tours can be a huge timesaver, especially when considering apartments from afar.
2. Mobile App: A mobile app can be a convenient way to search for apartments on the go.
Top 15 Best NYC Apartment Sites:
1. Zillow
Zillow is an excellent resource for finding rental apartments in New York City, offering a wide range of listings and valuable information to simplify your search for your next home. Whether you’re relocating to the city or seeking a new place, Zillow.com can assist you in exploring all available options and selecting the ideal one for your needs.
- Search Filters: Zillow offers a wide range of search filters, allowing you to narrow down your search based on criteria such as price, location, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and more.
- Property Details: Each listing on Zillow includes detailed information about the property, including photos, descriptions, and features.
- Zestimate: Zillow’s Zestimate, a proprietary tool, offers an estimated market value for properties, aiding in determining if a listing is priced correctly.
- Agent Finder: If you need assistance from a real estate agent, Zillow’s Agent Finder tool can help you find an agent in your area with expertise in your desired neighborhood.
- Interactive Maps: Zillow’s interactive maps provide a visual representation of available properties, making it easy to see the location of each home and its proximity to amenities.
- Saved Searches and Alerts: You can save your searches and set up alerts to be notified when new listings that match your criteria become available.
- 3D Home Tours: While not as common as photos, some listings boast 3D tours that allow for a more immersive virtual experience.
Traffic: 893.7M
Price:
- Zillow Premium rental listing: $29.99
- Rental Applications: $35
- Zillow charges $9.99 per listing per week after the first free listing.
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.7/5 (1.19M reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.8 /5 (7.1M reviews)
Pros:
- More than 160 million homes in database
- Mortgage calculators to help buyers understand what they can afford
- Reporting on-time monthly rent payments to help renters build their credit
- Monthly rent summary that helps renters understand what the true cost of a home might be
- Down payment assistance information on every listing
Cons:
- Zestimate home values can be inaccurate
- Agents can pay for better placement
- Zillow lacks complete information for some listings
- Some users find Zillow’s interface cluttered or confusing
2. Trulia
Trulia is a website where you can find homes to buy or rent. It also gives you information about the real estate market. It’s easy to use and has lots of helpful information for people who want to buy, sell, or rent a home.
- Property Search: Trulia, you can search for homes by price, location, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the type of property.
- Map View: The website has a map view feature that shows where each property is located. This makes it simple for users to see all the available listings on a map.
- Neighborhood Information: Trulia gives lots of details about neighborhoods, like schools, crime rates, and nearby things to do. This helps people decide where they want to live.
- Price Trends: People can see how home prices are changing in a certain area. This helps them know if it’s a good time to buy or sell a home.
- Saved Searches: Trulia, you can save your searches and get notified when there are new listings that match what you’re looking for.
- Real Estate Guides: The website has lots of helpful information about buying, selling, and renting homes, with guides and tips to help you.
Traffic: 132.0M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (1.3M reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.7/ 5 (276K reviews)
Pros:
- Provides detailed information about real estate properties.
- Offers neighborhood information and maps.
- Includes listings for buying, renting, and selling properties.
- User-friendly interface for easy navigation.
- Provides tools for calculating mortgage rates and affordability.
Cons:
- Limited in some areas, especially rural or less populated areas.
- May not always have up-to-date information on properties.
- Some listings might be outdated or already sold.
- Can be overwhelming with the amount of information displayed.
- Requires users to create an account to access certain features.
3. Realtor.com
Realtor.com is a leading resource for both new homebuyers and experienced investors looking to navigate the complexities of the real estate market. As the largest real estate website in the United States, it provides a comprehensive set of tools and current information to empower users at every step of their real estate journey.
- Property Search: Users can search for homes, apartments, and other properties based on location, price, size, and other criteria.
- Listings: Realtor.com has a large database of listings from across the United States, including homes for sale, rent, and recently sold properties.
- Home Value Estimates: The website provides estimates of home values, which can be useful for both buyers and sellers.
- Neighborhood Information: Users can access information about neighborhoods, including schools, crime rates, and amenities.
- Mortgage Calculator: A tool that helps users estimate their monthly mortgage payments based on the property price, down payment, and other factors.
- Real Estate Agent Directory: Users can find real estate agents in their area and read reviews from past clients.
- Advice and Guides: Realtor.com offers articles and guides on buying, selling, and renting properties, as well as tips for home improvement and maintenance.
Traffic: 357.1M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (771.1K reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.6/5 (460K reviews)
Pros:
- Huge selection of listings
- User-friendly platform
- Free to search
- Market insights and educational resources
Cons:
- Listings may not be updated in real-time (contact the agent for verification)
- Relies on information provided by agents, so accuracy can vary
- May not include all available listings (especially for-sale-by-owner properties)
4. Airbnb
Airbnb is known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of listings, primarily offering short-term rental properties like vacation homes and apartments, though long-term rental apartments in NYC can also be found on the platform.
- User Interface: A modern, user-friendly interface for browsing listings, searching for accommodations, and managing bookings.
- Listing Management: Tools for hosts to create and manage their listings, including uploading photos, setting pricing, and managing availability calendars.
- Search and Filter: Advanced search and filter options to help users find accommodations based on their preferences (e.g., location, price, amenities).
- Integration with Other Services: Integration with third-party services for additional features (e.g., payment gateways, property management systems).
- Messaging System: A messaging system that allows guests and hosts to communicate securely within the platform.
- User Profiles: User profiles for guests and hosts, including verification processes for added security.
- Legal and Compliance: Compliance with local regulations and laws related to short-term rentals and accommodations.
- Booking System: A robust booking system that handles reservations, payments, and cancellations.
- Mobile Compatibility: Mobile-friendly design or dedicated mobile apps for iOS and Android.
Traffic: 278.1M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (632.5k reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.5/5 (1.57M reviews)
Pros:
- Easy to find unique and affordable accommodations
- Provides opportunities for hosts to earn extra income
- Offers a range of options from private rooms to entire homes
- Allows travelers to experience local culture and hospitality
Cons:
- The quality of accommodations can vary
- Service fees can add to the overall cost
- Some hosts may not provide accurate descriptions or amenities
- Limited customer support in case of issues
5. Craigslist
Craigslist is a website where you can buy and sell things, find jobs, and even look for places to live. It’s like a big online marketplace where people can connect with each other to exchange goods, services, and information.
User Interface:
- Simple and clean design to navigate through categories and listings.
- Search bar for users to find specific items or services.
- Categories and subcategories for organizing listings.
Listing Management:
- The ability for users to create, edit, and delete their listings.
- Options to add images, descriptions, and contact information.
Search and Filters:
- Advanced search options with filters for location, price range, and keywords.
- Sorting options for relevance, date posted, and price.
Communication Features:
- Messaging system for users to communicate securely.
- Option for users to flag inappropriate content.
User Accounts:
- User registration and login system.
- Profile management for users to view and edit their listings.
Localization:
- Ability to localize the website for different regions or countries.
- Support for multiple languages.
Mobile Responsiveness: Mobile-friendly design for users to access the website on smartphones and tablets.
Price: All craigslist postings are free, except for
- Job categories in US and parts of CA: $10-75 (fee varies by area)
- Apartment rentals in Boston, Chicago, and NYC areas: $5
- Commercial real estate in the US: $5
- All for sale by-dealer categories in the US: $5
- Cars/trucks by-dealer in the US, Vancouver BC: $5
- Furniture by-dealer in Vancouver BC: $5
- Cars/trucks, RVs, and motorcycles by-owner in the US: $5
- Gigs in US and selected CA areas: $3-10
- Services in US and CA: $5
Traffic: 501.0M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (402.5k reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.6 /5 (200k reviews)
Pros:
- Easy to use for buying and selling items locally.
- Wide range of products and services available.
- Often has lower prices compared to retail stores.
Cons:
- Can be risky due to scams and fraud.
- No guarantee or return policy for purchases.
- Limited customer support compared to online retailers.
6. Apartments.com
Easily find your perfect place to live with Apartments.com’s user-friendly website and app. Plus, all their listings are verified for your peace of mind. Large Inventory: They boast a massive number of listings, including apartments, condos, townhomes, and even houses https://www.apartments.com/. This gives renters a wide range of options to choose from.
- Detailed Listings: Listings often include virtual tours, floor plans, photos, and even 360-degree views to help you get a good feel for the place without needing to visit in person.
- Search Filters: You can narrow down your search using a variety of filters, including location, price range, size, amenities (pet-friendly, gym, etc.), and even commute time.
- Mobile App: Their app allows you to search for rentals on the go and get updates about new listings or changes to your saved searches.
- Interactive Maps: Interactive maps that show the location of each apartment and nearby amenities such as schools, parks, and public transportation.
- Virtual Tours: Virtual tours of select apartments to give users a better sense of the space before scheduling an in-person visit.
- Integration with Social Media: Integration with social media platforms to allow users to easily share listings with friends and family.
Traffic: 128.0M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (366.9K reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.6/5 (81.8K reviews)
Pros:
- Extensive listings of apartments nationwide
- User-friendly interface
- Helpful search filters
- Virtual tours and photos
Cons:
- Advertisements can be overwhelming
- Limited direct contact with landlords
- Some listings may be outdated
- Not all apartments offer virtual tours
- Rent prices can vary widely
7. Rent.com
Rent.com is a website where you can find homes and apartments for rent. It helps you search for places to live and provides information about them, like how much they cost and what they look like. It’s a useful tool for anyone looking for a new place to live.
- Search: Extensive search filters by location, price, size, bedrooms, bathrooms, pet-friendliness, amenities (pool, gym, etc.), and property type.
- Listings: Detailed property listings with photos, virtual tours (sometimes), floor plans, rental details (rent amount, deposit, availability), and contact information for landlords.
- Screening Tools: Some landlords may offer screening tools for renters to apply directly through Rent.com (background checks, credit checks).
- Saved Searches: Users can save their search criteria and receive alerts for new listings that match their preferences.
- Detailed Listings: Provides renters with comprehensive information about each property.
- Large Inventory: Rent.com boasts a vast database of rental listings across the US.
Traffic: 22.22M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.7/5 (158.7K reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.5/5 (86.2K reviews)
Pros:
- Huge selection of rental properties across the US.
- Easy-to-use search tools to find the perfect rental.
- Detailed information about each property listing.
- Free for renters to search for rentals.
Cons:
- Accuracy of listings may depend on landlords updating information.
- Some landlords may use paid services on other platforms, so their listings might not be on Rent.com.
- com itself doesn’t verify listings or manage the application process (contact landlord directly).
8. StreetEasy
StreetEasy is a one-stop shop for navigating the often-complex world of New York City real estate, specializing in both rentals and purchases. Whether you’re a seasoned New Yorker or a wide-eyed newcomer, StreetEasy offers a comprehensive suite of tools and resources designed to empower you throughout your housing journey.
- Search: Easily find apartments, houses, and condos for sale or rent.
- Filters: Narrow down listings by price, size, location, and more.
- Saved Searches: Save your favorite searches for quick access.
- Alerts: Get notified when new listings match your criteria.
- Neighborhood Guides: Learn about different neighborhoods in NYC.
- Agent Finder: Find real estate agents in NYC.
- Market Reports: Stay informed about the real estate market trends.
- Map View: See listings on an interactive map.
Traffic: 24.32M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (108.7K reviews)
- Android app rating: 3.5/5 (5.06K reviews)
Pros:
- Large database of NYC rentals and sales.
- Easy to find apartments with specific features.
- Valuable data and insights for renters, buyers, and sellers.
- Streamlined way to connect with real estate professionals.
Cons:
- Some features, such as advanced search filters, may require a paid subscription.
- Limited to the New York City real estate market.
- Competition can be high for popular listings.
9. HotPads
Finding your dream apartment in the city can feel like searching a maze. HotPads is your friendly guide, offering a website and app to streamline your hunt. It’s like a powerful toolkit for renters, simplifying your city apartment search.
- Search alerts: Get notified when new listings matching your criteria become available.
- Area insights: Explore neighborhood statistics like demographics and walkability scores.
- Extensive listings: Search millions of apartments and houses for rent across the US.
- Filter options: Refine your search by price, size, amenities (pet-friendly, parking etc.), and building features.
- Verified listings: HotPads uses fraud protection technology to ensure listing accuracy.
- Real-time updates: Listings are updated frequently to reflect current availability.
- Contact landlords directly: Initiate communication with property managers or landlords from within the platform.
- Mobile app: Search for rentals on the go.
- Search by map: Visualize rentals based on location.
Traffic: 18.70M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (100.6k reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.7/5 (43k reviews)
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with map-based search.
- Extensive filter options for targeted searches.
- Up-to-date listings with fraud protection.
- Convenient mobile app for on-the-go searching.
Cons:
- Listings may also be found on other rental platforms, so some redundancy might exist.
- Doesn’t handle applications or payments directly – you’ll need to contact the landlord for next steps.
- Availability might be concentrated in major cities compared to rural areas.
10. Zumper
Zumper simplifies apartment hunting. Search by neighborhood, price, and features. Find new listings, no-fee options, and tour scheduling easily. Explore neighborhoods and city rent trends with their informative reports.
- Rental Listings: Thousands of rental listings across the United States and Canada.
- Saved Searches: Option to save searches and receive alerts for new listings.
- Tenant Screening: Option for landlords to screen potential tenants.
- Customizable Filters: Filters for price range, number of bedrooms, pet-friendly options, and more.
- Verified Listings: Listings are verified for accuracy and legitimacy.
- Map-Based Search: Interactive map search feature for finding rentals in specific locations.
Traffic: 13.71M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (62k reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.5/5 (37.6k reviews)
Pros:
- Extensive database of rental listings.
- User-friendly interface with map-based search.
- Customizable filters for precise search results.
- Verified listings for accuracy and legitimacy.
- Free for renters to use.
Cons:
- Listing fees for landlords.
- Limited availability in some smaller cities or rural areas.
- Competition with other rental listing platforms.
11. PadMapper
Streamline your apartment search with PadMapper, a comprehensive rental listing platform. It aggregates millions of listings across various websites, making it a one-stop shop for finding your ideal place to live. PadMapper’s user-friendly interface allows you to refine your search with specific criteria, saving valuable time and effort.
- Filters: Refine your search by price, bedrooms, bathrooms, and amenities.
- Real-time updates: Get notified about new listings that match your criteria.
- Post listings: Find roommates or sublet your apartment (mobile app only).
- Large inventory: Search listings from various websites on one platform.
- Map-based search: Visualize rentals in your desired area.
Traffic: 1.676M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.8/5 (6.4k reviews)
- Android app rating: 4.1/5 (3.74k reviews)
12. uHomes
Uhomes serves as your one-stop shop for all your residential needs, empowering you to explore a comprehensive selection of rental properties and potentially transition into homeownership with ease. Uhomes streamlines the student housing search process by offering a comprehensive selection of accommodation options conveniently located near major universities, including those in prominent cities like New York.
- Search: Allows users to search for rental properties based on location, price, size, and other criteria.
- Filters: Provides filters for narrowing down search results, such as by amenities, property type, and more.
- Listings: Displays detailed listings for each property, including photos, descriptions, and contact information.
- Map View: Offers a map view to see the location of properties and nearby amenities.
- Favorites: Allows users to save favorite properties for future reference.
- Messaging: Enables users to contact property owners or agents directly through the platform.
- Global Coverage: Offers rental properties worldwide, making it suitable for international students, travelers, and professionals.
- User-Friendly Interface: Provides an easy-to-use interface for finding and renting properties.
- Secure Payments: Facilitates secure online payments for rental transactions.
- Customer Support: Offers customer support for users seeking assistance with the platform or rental process.
Traffic: 1.347M
Reviews and Ratings:
- IOS app rating: 4.6/5 (128 reviews)
- Android app rating: 3.4/5 (184 reviews)
Pros:
- Offers a wide range of rental properties worldwide.
- Easy-to-use interface for searching and renting properties.
- Useful for users seeking rental properties in different countries.
- Facilitates secure online payments for rental transactions.
Cons:
- Some premium features or listings may require a fee.
- High competition for popular rental properties in desirable locations.
- Properties listed may not always be available when contacted due to high demand.
13. Realty Hop
RealtyHop is a sophisticated investment platform that leverages real estate data to empower investors of all experience levels. RealtyHop enables you to make informed decisions and build long-term wealth within the real estate market by streamlining the property search process and highlighting potentially lucrative opportunities.
- Property Search: Users can search for properties for sale or rent based on location, price, size, and other criteria.
- Property Analysis: Provides tools to analyze property investment potential, including estimated property value, rental income, and potential return on investment.
- Neighborhood Analysis: Offers insights into neighborhoods, including crime rates, school ratings, and amenities.
- Agent Directory: Allows users to find real estate agents in their area.
Traffic: 3.731M
Pros:
- Comprehensive property search and analysis tools
- Detailed neighborhood insights
- User-friendly interface
- Helpful blog content
- Agent directory for finding real estate professionals
Cons:
- Some advanced features may require a subscription or payment
- Limited availability in certain regions
- Updates on statistics and features may have changed since 2022.
14. June Homes
For professionals, students, and those on a NYC adventure, June Homes offers high-quality, fully furnished rooms and apartments for short stays. Their flexible rentals make finding a perfect place in major cities like New York and Boston a breeze.
- Furnished Units: Apartments and homes come fully furnished with modern furniture and appliances.
- Flexible Leases: Monthly rental options allow for flexibility in lease terms.
- Online Booking: Easy online booking process for selecting and renting a unit.
- Professional Management: Properties are managed by June Homes’ professional team.
- All-Inclusive Rent: Rent covers utilities, Wi-Fi, and cleaning services, simplifying budgeting.
Traffic: 9,03,727
Pros:
- Monthly lease options provide flexibility for short-term stays or uncertain plans.
- All-inclusive rent and online booking make the rental process easy.
- Units are furnished with modern furniture and appliances.
Cons:
- Prices can be higher compared to traditional long-term leases.
- Availability may be limited in certain locations or during peak seasons.
15. Listings Project
Listings Project website, where you’ll discover a vibrant community dedicated to connecting people with unique spaces to live, work, and create. Dive into our platform to explore listings for apartments, studios, and more, all curated with care to ensure you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. For renters seeking temporary housing solutions or lease commitments with increased flexibility, Leasebreak offers a comprehensive selection of short-term rentals and lease takeover opportunities.
- Housing Listings: Comprehensive listings for apartments, sublets, room shares, and co-living spaces.
- Roommate Matching: Facilitates connections between individuals seeking roommates.
- Curated Listings: Handpicked listings to ensure quality and authenticity.
- Accessibility: Available in major cities across the United States.
- Weekly Newsletter: Sends out a curated newsletter featuring the latest listings and community updates.
- Quality Assurance: Listings are curated to maintain high standards.
- Community Engagement: Encourages networking and support among users.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive website design for easy navigation.
- Privacy: Ensures privacy and security for user interactions.
Traffic: 8,42,983
Pros:
- Curated listings ensure quality and relevance
- Focus on creative communities offers unique opportunities
- Community-focused approach fosters connections and networking
Cons:
- Limited geographic coverage, primarily major US cities
- Limited features compared to larger real estate and job search platforms
- Subscription fees may deter some users.
- Limited customization options for search filters.
