Finding Apartments

[jonathanmaiullo]

Hey Guys,
So I just got a ticket for August. I'm trying to find an apartment online, I've been checking Craigslist but it seems pretty flashy. I (obviously) don't have any kind of documentation. I don't need something really flashy or right in Palermo, but I'm hoping to stay around 4-500 US. Which websites are good, and which neighborhoods should I be checking? Thanks.

 

[French jurist]

Hi, your situation is quite classic so I'll bring you the classic answer to your situation :
Come first with a place to stay for 2/3 weeks, then you'll have enough time to search here for the place that's right for you (location, budget, etc.).

 

[HeyBA]

I'd second French jurist. Just to keep costs and hassles down, I'd even consider renting a room from someone while you look. 2/3 weeks is a good idea, but you could probably book a place for two months for just a bit more if you poke around on Craig's. That's plenty of time to look and decide where you want to live.

The site soloduenos.com is supposed to be good as well.

Anyone up for starting a list or sticky thread that completely breaks down BA rental resources and the whole scene in general? This has got to be one of the most frequently asked questions on here. It's also increasingly surprising to people how expensive some of the rentals are getting. I'm familiar with the vibe that this kind of info has to be "earned" and shouldn't be spread around lest the newbies find about it and prices skyrocket, but in reality I think open information helps to stabilize the prices in any market.

I think I'll start a thread...

 

[davonz]

I usually find my aparments on craigslist.. however i always come here and either stay with friends or rent for a couple of weeks and look.

I have found that alot of the pic's dont really turn out to be a ture representation of the apt. They will lie about stuff, like location ( saying in palermo when its actually 3 blocks from palermo) to get a better price. The bed size.. etc..

Also visit during busy times of day 4:30 to 7, as street/traffic noise can be a problem here..

The prices that are advertised/asked for on craigslist are usually on the high side, and especially this time of year. You can get a good discount.. eg: last place i rented, Moden studio in palermo was advertised for US$$550, i got for $425 including power/gas/internet/phone (local calls only), but i agreed to rent for 3 months, ended up staying for 6 and paid US$200 deposit.. It is also easier to negotiate if you meet them, as they can suss you out, so its less of a gamble for them and its also harder for them to say no/rip you off if they like you.

hope this helps..

 

[steveinbsas]

Read as much as you can in the archives of the forum before you rent anything.

I suggest you enter "renting" and "apartment" in the search box and/or go to my post in this thread:

Compiling list of BA Apartment Rental Resources