How to Find an Apartment in San Marcos, California
- 1). Determine your rental budget. Your budget influences the type of apartment you are able to rent and the disposable income you will have remaining after paying for daily living expenses and monthly utilities. According to CBS Money Watch, your monthly rent should not exceed 25% of your monthly income.
- 2). Know your credit score. Avoid surprises later in the rental process by a getting full credit report. Credit reports can be purchased for a fee from several credit reporting web sites.
- 3). Make a list of the features you desire in an apartment. Note the number of bedrooms you want as well as amenities you desire. Determine which area in San Marcos best suits your lifestyle. In other words, consider if you want to live near work, Lake San Marcos recreational area or within minutes of area colleges and universities.
- 4). Search classified ads and rental guides. The North County Times newspaper's print and online classified ads offer an extensive list of apartments for rent. Complimentary apartment rental guides that are available at local grocery stores provide an exhaustive list of area apartments. The guides include pictures of the apartments, floor plans, contact information, pricing and promotional specials.
- 5). Online research. Search for apartments on free online web sites such as ForRent.com and Move.com. The web sites provide extensive rental listings that include virtual floor plans, price, location and amenities. Craigslist.org is an additional free online resource with rental listings for apartment complexes and private landlords. Go to Craigslist.org and select "San Diego" from the "California" cities list. Click on "apartments and housing" tab and enter "San Marcos" in the search bar.
- 6). Call landlords and apartment complexes and set appointments to see the apartments. If you do not get an answer, leave a detailed message stating your name, contact information and the apartment you are inquiring about.
- 7). Go see the apartments. Show up to your appointment to see the apartment on time and dress professionally. Take your checkbook, identification, pay stubs and proof of employment letter with you. Put in an application when you find an apartment you like because indecisiveness could cost you the rental.