Apartment Trade Tips

" Know the deal. Make sure both sides know what the swap consists of. That means be honest in describing your home (including size, description of rooms, yards, neighborhood type and distance to attractions like the beach, shopping, etc.).

" Know where the key is. Don't double check. Triple check to make sure you know where the key will be and any tricks to opening the door.

" Arrange phone usage rules. Make sure you arrange in advance how phone charges will be handled. One option is to disconnect your long distance prior to leaving.

" Be flexible. Remember, you're working with someone else's schedule too. Being flexible will help ensure that all parties are happy. Think win-win.

" Cleanliness is next to godliness. Clean your home thoroughly before leaving and clean the swap-home thoroughly before leaving as well.

" Lock away valuables. If you don't want to lose it, lock it away.

" Post a list of emergency numbers. This list should include fire, police, ambulance and at least one neighbor, friend or relative. But don't forget to tell your buddies that they're on the list.

" Post a list of maintenance issues and directions. Directions for trash collection, plant watering, and how to run the washer, dryer and dishwasher will do you more good than you'll ever know upon your return.

" Hold the mayo, uh I mean mail. Put your mail on hold at the post office or have a friend or neighbor collect it for you.

" Leave a "welcome" meal in the kitchen. Any nice gesture can encourage your swapping partner to care for your home as much as you do.

Apartment Renters Guide

When looking to rent a new apartment, it's important to keep in mind a few guidelines. In this section, you'll find useful information that can help you decide whether or not to pay a broker's fee, you can get Apartment Renting Tips and tips for Finding A Cheap Apartment, learn about apartment renters' rights, or to get information about tons of logistics, like: renters' insurance, Subleasing Your Apartment, Standard Apartment Deposits, buying vs. renting your apartment, questions to ask a new roommate. In addition, you can become well versed in the apartment rental market by learning about Apartment Locators and the Apartment Blue Book.