Apartment List
How does Apartment List's 'total monthly cost' filter work?
Instead of showing just the base rent, this filter includes estimated utilities, parking fees, and other charges upfront. This helps you avoid wasting time on apartments that look cheap but end up costing hundreds more per month.
Can I message landlords directly through Apartment List without paying any fees?
Yes, the 'message landlord' button is completely free to use with no hidden charges. In the review, a user messaged a landlord on a Tuesday night and received a reply with actual availability by Thursday morning.
Why did I get an auto-reply saying a unit was already rented when it showed 'available now'?
Some listings on Apartment List may not be updated for a week or two, leading to outdated availability. To avoid this, always confirm with the landlord directly via the app before scheduling a tour, and focus on recently posted listings.
Is Apartment List really free, or are there hidden costs or premium tiers?
The app is completely free to download, search, message landlords, and schedule tours. There are no hidden premium tiers or 'boost your application' upsells, so you won't pay anything unless you sign a lease through a listed property.
How does Apartment List compare to Zillow for finding rentals near a college campus?
Apartment List feels more reliable than Zillow because its listings are less likely to be obvious scams with suspiciously low prices. The map view also lets you zoom into specific streets near campus, and the free messaging feature gets faster responses than Craigslist.
