Why rush into buying a home? Granted, there might be no place like it, but before treading into deep water with a mortgage, take a look at what’s available in the rental market. You’ll be bowled over at the options that abound in paradise.

Chandra Vail, publisher of Apartment Finder magazine, realizes that task is one of the first critical needs that must be met before feeling settled. “Despite the real estate market, Las Vegas is still in a state of growth,” she says. “It’s definitely a boom town that has exploded not only in population but in the incredible number and variety of rental properties. You’ll be amazed at how much is still going on in this town.

“With many new rental units available, it’s no wonder that people move here and become overwhelmed. While it’s obvious that people relocate constantly, it also can be transient. That’s even more reason to rent before buying.” Vail’s appraisal correlates with UNLV’s Center for Business and Economic Research findings, and the current apartment market shows far more rent
stability than what people think.

So many locations, so little time…
Great properties are offered throughout the Valley, particularly in North Las Vegas, the Northwest and the Southwest, where there’s a surge of new communities. Start your search by getting a residential
apartment location guide or go online to review locations at your leisure. Then you can meet with a professional apartment or management company that works on your behalf. The good news is that despite the housing downturn, rents have stayed relatively flat at about $850 a month for apartments, and the apartment industry is expected to see a supply shortage in the next couple years, according to a June 2008 report by Applied Analysis, a Las Vegas-based financial consultancy.

Donna Middleton, who handles property management and realty for Beasley & DeVarreau, Sotheby’s International Realty luxury market, recommends connecting with a realtor or leasing specialist before striking out on your own. Many complexes have properties that are equipped for those who seek everything from hydrotherapy spas and gourmet kitchens to disability access and Wi-Fi by outdoor amenities, such as pools and gardens. It’s a good idea to have the criteria you want in mind before you rent. Most people start by looking at location, usually with easy access to work or school, and the property should be clean and affordable. Also keep in mind cost of utilities, security deposits, pet rent, cleaning and premium fees.

Steve Antuna, owner of The Apartment Source, passes along valuable points for anyone considering renting. “We find that people will have a good idea of the amenities they want, whether it’s the fitness center, beautiful grounds, great location or security features.” But, he continues, “Potential renters need to consider a number of key factors beyond accommodations and price.” He suggests doing the following: Interview the neighbors; test every appliance to make sure each is in working condition; check the wiring, air and heat; and make sure your ‘gut’ reaction about your apartment is in line with your intellectual decision. “Renters need to feel like they have selected the optimum place for their peace of mind,” he says. The Apartment Source even has an ‘Apartmints’ link on its website that shares more vital information for securing your best possible rental.

LOCCATOR SERVICES
APARTMENT FINDING SERVICE, 5785 W. TROPICANA, 702/876-5111, 888/797-5500 or www.lasvegasrentals.com. Locally owned, complete locater service serving the entire Valley, no appointment necessary, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., weekdays.

THE APARTMENT SOURCE, 105 N. PECOS, SUITE 115, HENDERSON, 702/313-6460 or www.theaptsource.com. Biggest free rental locater service in town. Service industry locating specialists, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., weekdays.

APARTMENT RENTALS GALORE, 1515 E. TROPICANA AVE., SUITE 645, 702/736-3700, 888/797-5500 or www.rentinglasvegas.com. Free service, Monday through Saturday, information for 400 rental communities.

BEST RENT FINDERS, 5540 S. Fort Apache, Suite 100, 702/222-2288 or www.bestrentfinders.com. Free service for new residents looking for rental properties from apartments to real estate. Long and short term, furnished and unfurnished availability.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANIES
CAMDEN PROPERTIES, 4041 E. Sunset Road, Henderson, 702/454-2068 or www.camdenliving.com. This management company handles corporate housing, short-term and flexible 12-month apartment leasing. Close to 40 rental communities are represented within the Valley. Camden offers an internet based virtual floor plan to effectively design your living space.

CONAM MANAGEMENT 2215-C Renaissance Drive, 702/256-1797 or www.conam.com. With 33 communities in the Las Vegas area, this full-service real estate/multi-family property firms is one of the largest of its kind in the nation. Check the website for individual apartment listings.

GREYSTAR MANAGEMENT, (702) 476-8997, www.greystar.com, Provides service in the mulit family real estate business.

LAS VEGAS LUXURIOUS RENTALS, 702/768-6205 Fully furnished homes for the corporate, convention or vacation renter. Three-day minimum, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. PST, weekdays. www.lasvegasluxuriousrentals.com

OVATION MANAGEMENT CO, 6021 S. Fort Apache, Suite 100, 702/990-2790 or www.lasvegasliving.com. Strikingly handsome architecture highlights Ovation’s 15 luxury properties. Amenities include heated spas, European-styled pools, fitness clubs and many gated communities.

PICERNE, 4880 W. University, Ste. B6, Las Vegas. 702/367-4505 or www.picernaptlv.com. Luxury apartments and apartment homes throughout the Las Vegas area. Full-service firm dedicated to development, property management and ownership.

THE PREFERRED GROUP, 9719 Flamingo St., Ste. 100, Las Vegas, 702/471-7515 or www.preferredapartments.com. Asset and property management company assisting individuals, corporate clients and institutions.

REALTY MANAGEMENT, INC. (RMI), 630 Trade Center Drive, Ste. 201, Las Vegas. 702/737-8580 or www.rmicompanies.com. A leasing and management company that also specializes in real estate and investment services.

RMI MANAGEMENT, 702/737-8580 or www.rmillc.com. A leasing and management company that also specializes in real estate and investment services.

SIGNATURE MANAGEMENT, 801 South Rancho Dr., Ste. E-4, Las Vegas, 888/889-4825 or www.signaturehomes.com. One of the largest, family-owned builders of homes, condominiums and apartments. Complete property management for apartments and single-family homes.

STOUT MANAGEMENT CO, 10151 Park Run Drive, 702/227-0444 or www.smc-lv.com. Gated communities, luxury apartments, villas and 5-star concierge business centers are featured in some of the Stout’s 45 Valley properties.

ON THE WEB
www.corporatehousing.com – Full service site listings: short term rentals, furnished condos, privately owned homes, vacation lodging.

www.apartmentguide.com – Comprehensive apartment listing guide with photos, amenities, maps and rates.

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