One of the first steps to finding an apartment to rent can also be one of the most stressful ones. Very often, people's thoughts tend to skip straight to the apartment viewing when they think of apartment rentals. More often than not though, a phone call is in order to make sure you don't waste your time trekking to the location in question only to find it's not suited to your needs.

There's always the possibility that the landlord may not be able to take your call when you're making enquiries about apartment rentals. If you have to leave a message, speak slowly and clearly when leaving your name, contact number and best time to call, as well as the property or address about which you're enquiring. You should try calling again if your call isn't returned within the day itself or overnight.

If you do manage to get the landlord, refer specifically to the apartment you're interested in as some landlords may have more than one property up for rent. Once you've ascertained the apartment is vacant, now is the time to ask pertinent questions such as if there is a laundry facility on the premise and if parking spaces are included in the rent, how many there are and if the unit is on a higher or lower floor. Refrain from asking about whether the place is quiet or if it needs work.

Questions such as these should be answered before you confirm the rent and when you will be allowed to move in. If you like what you've heard about the apartment rentals so far, then you may arrange for a viewing at a specific time, date and location. Ask for directions, landmarks and distinguishing characteristics of the building if you're unfamiliar with the area. It pays to be early so that you make a good impression.