What You Should Know About Credit & Movers when Renting an Apartment in New York City (Manhattan)

In the article, What You Should Know About Renting an Apartment in New York City (Manhattan), I wrote about a few things you should know when renting an apartment in New York City, eg, no-fee apartments, when to use a realtor, etc.

Here, I'll tell you about credit and what to watch out for in movers.

What makes me an expert? Ilived there for 18 years (still have my apartment there) and was a realtor for a year (specializing in residential sales and leasing).

Your Credit: Getting an apartment in New York City is especially hard if you have less than stellar credit. Why? Because there is so much competition - especially for "affordable" apartments.

This means that landlords are never at a loss for tenants. They can pick and choose the cream of the crop.

NOTE: Affordable is in quotation marks because what's affordable on the island of Manhattan is considered highway robbery in other parts of the country.

Don't think potential landlords won't check your credit. Nine out of 10 times - whether they are management companies or private owners - they will check your credit. And, you will pay for the privilege of them doing so. Usually there is an "application fee," which covers the credit check.

Years ago when I got my apartment, it was $35. Figure on paying between $30-$75 for this. Usually, they're not trying to make a profit, they're just passing the cost on to you. The cost varies depending on who they use to conduct the credit check.

Other Things Potential Landlords Will Check: Potential landlords will also confirm your employment, salary and will usually request a letter of reference from your last landlord.

Moving Costs: Moving in New York is a hassle unlike any other. Why? Because movers charge for stairs (a justifiable charge I might add, in my opinion); they are practically never on time due the traffic of the congested city and there are a lot of scammers out there.

Check out any potential movers you are thinking about using via the Better Business Bureau. Also, ask for references - and check them.