Westside Rentals: Is it worth paying the $60? (apartment complexes, tenant)

[mitch conner]

I'm trying to find a room in an apartment and so far have only been looking on Craigslist in the room shares section. It seems like Westside Rentals might have more listings (based on their guest search.) Has anybody used or tried to use Westside Rentals to find a room? Is it worth spending the money?

[greggd]

Mitch,

I have known a few people who have used westside rentals with some luck, however they advised that some of the addresses listed were apartments that they were already aware of. Some, however, were new prospects.

The best way to find an apartment listing, at no cost, is to drive around the area that you are interested in. You will notice management co. names on the apartment complexes. They generally have a web site or list of locations that show current vacancies or ones that will be available in the next month or two. There is usually always a telephone # listed even with no for rent sign. Call them anyways and get their web address or have them fax you a list of their vacancies and upcoming vacancies. Mom and pop buildings always hang a for-rent sign.

If you find a super convenient bldg you want to move into, call the # for the manager and ask. They may have a unit that is going to become vacant or another building with a vacancy.

Owners and managers love to have a tenant lined up before the old one vacates because it saves the owners $$ and it save the manager the big hassle of being on call to show the unit.

[motoman]

I used Westside rentals to find an apartment, but not just a room. I think it is well worth the $60 because it potentials saves you from driving around all day to find nothing. You should be able to get a good list of places to look at before you even hit the road.

[LASam]

I used Westside Rentals to find my apt, and it was well worth this $60.

[richie894]

They are worth it, but you can get a password on Craiglist for about $20. Usually people who find something, sell their passwords with the remianing time.

[Cubancoffee]

I signed up with Westside Rentals when I was looking for a place this summer and found a great place. But I also checked craigslist religiously and discovered the same listing there. Next time I'm looking, I'll probably skip the $60 Westside fee and go with craigslist, unless and until I get desperate.