How to Rent an Apartment Sight Unseen When Moving to a New City

Short answer: You can rent an apartment sight unseen if you verify the listing and landlord first, tour the home live on video or through a trusted local, read the lease carefully and pay only against a written agreement. The safest approach is usually a short-term stay so you can view homes in person after you arrive.

Key takeaways

• Start about one to two months before your move in most markets.
• Use a live video tour, not just photos.
• Verify the listing and the landlord before you send any money.
• A short-term stay on arrival is the lowest-risk option.

How soon before moving should you start looking?

Many landlords list homes only a few weeks before they are available, so searching four to eight weeks ahead is typical. Use the early weeks to learn the city, set your budget (see how much rent you can afford) and shortlist neighbourhoods. Start earlier in competitive markets.

How do you choose a neighbourhood from another city?

• Map the commute to your workplace at the times you will travel.
• Check street views and satellite maps for noise sources and surroundings.
• Read local forums and ask residents about the area.
• Compare rents per area and size, using rental listings.

How do you view an apartment remotely?

Ask for a live video tour rather than a recorded one and walk through it step by step:

1. Start outside: the street, entrance and building.
2. Ask the host to open every cupboard, window and tap.
3. Check the view, light, noise and signs of damp.
4. Ask for close-ups of anything that looks unclear in the photos.

Read more in the complete guide to virtual property tours. If possible, ask a friend, colleague or local inspector to visit for you.

How do you stay safe when you cannot visit?

• Verify the owner or agent and search the photos elsewhere. See how to verify an apartment listing.
• Read the whole lease and ask about anything unclear.
• Pay only against a signed lease, to a verified account, by a traceable method.
• Keep a written record of the condition on move-in and take photos.

What if you need a place fast?

• Prepare your documents first (see documents needed to rent).
• Widen your area and your must-have list.
• Consider furnished or short-lease options.
• Book short-term accommodation for the first weeks and finish the search in person.

Should you use an agent when moving?

An agent can be worth the fee when you cannot visit and time is short. See whether a rental agent is worth the fee.

Frequently asked questions

Can you rent an apartment without seeing it?

Yes, many people do, but it carries more risk. Reduce it with a live video tour, a local contact who can visit for you, independent checks on the landlord and a written lease before you pay.

How soon before moving should I start apartment hunting?

Many renters start about one to two months before the move, because listings often become available only a few weeks ahead. Start sooner in markets where homes are taken quickly.

How do I find an apartment quickly on short notice?

Widen your search area, prepare your documents before you view, accept small compromises on features, and consider a short-term stay while you find a long-term home.

Should I take a short-term rental first?

Often it is a good idea. A few weeks in a short-term place lets you view homes in person and choose the neighbourhood before you commit to a lease.

How do I avoid scams when renting remotely?

Never pay before verifying the landlord and the home, insist on a live video tour, check the photos and address independently and pay only against a written lease.

Related: virtual property tours, how to verify an apartment listing, homes for rent on Bellokey and more answers to common questions. This is general information, not financial, legal or tenancy advice. Rules differ by country and city, so check your local rules.