Finding an apartment
Are apartment locators worth it?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
They can be, especially in Texas and other Sun Belt cities full of large complexes. A locator is usually free to you because the complex pays them a commission when you sign. The catch is that they mostly show properties that pay locators, so they rarely cover private landlords, rooms or small buildings.
Locators are common in places like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and Austin, where much of the rental stock is big managed communities competing for tenants. A good locator knows which complexes are running specials, which have had management problems and which will accept an application with thin credit.
- Tell the locator your budget, areas, move date and any deal breakers before they send a list.
- Ask them to include current specials and the total monthly cost with fees.
- Tour the shortlist, and name the locator on your guest card or application so they get credit.
- Read reviews of each complex yourself instead of relying only on the locator's opinion.
Two practical tips. First, if you walk into a complex on your own before contacting a locator, the complex may not recognize the locator later. Second, a locator will not help you find a room in a house or a duplex from a private owner. For those, local groups and neighborhood signs work better. The community groups for DFW suburbs are listed on the community groups page.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find an Apartment in Facebook Housing Groups.