Search strategy
Define your budget, commute, move date, building preferences and application profile.
RENTING FROM ABROAD
Rent an apartment in NYC before you arrive.
MoveToNYC connects you with a dedicated licensed real estate agent who guides your search remotely—from choosing the right neighborhood and preparing documents to live video tours, the application, lease and keys.
12+ month rentalsLive video and in-person toursOne dedicated agent
LOCAL SUPPORT, WHEREVER YOU ARE
A New York search built around your move.
You should not have to understand New York real estate before beginning your search. Tell us where you are moving from, why you are coming, your timing, budget and priorities. We connect you with an agent who turns that information into a practical search plan.
Your agent stays with you through the process, keeps communication clear across time zones and helps you compare options with context—not just listing photos.
Personalized shortlist
Receive relevant apartments with clear guidance on neighborhoods, buildings and trade-offs.
Live viewings
Tour apartments by live video or in person and ask questions as the agent walks through each space.
Application to keys
Get help coordinating documents, management communication, signing and the final handover.
PREPARE WITH CONFIDENCE
What you may need to apply
Requirements vary by landlord, building and applicant profile. These are the essentials; the full list is in our application checklist.
- ✓ Government-issued photo identification
- ✓ Employment, university admission or enrollment information
- ✓ Proof of income or funds, such as pay statements or bank statements
Protect your information. Do not send passports, bank statements or other sensitive documents in the first website inquiry. Your agent will explain the appropriate submission method when required.
THE REMOTE RENTAL PROCESS
From your first message to your keys
- 1
Send your inquiry
Share your timing, budget, preferred areas and what is bringing you to New York.
- 2
Meet your agent
Discuss priorities, realistic options and the application profile your search should support.
- 3
Review your portfolio
Compare apartments with context on location, commute, building type and costs.
- 4
Tour live
Join live video tours from abroad or attend in person. Your agent checks the details that matter to you.
- 5
Apply and coordinate
Your agent helps organize the application, communicates with management and keeps the process moving.
- 6
Sign and receive the keys
Review the lease and required payments before signing, then coordinate move-in and key handover.
PLAN THE FULL BUDGET
Understand common NYC rental costs
Your agent will explain the costs attached to a specific apartment before you commit.
First month’s rent
Usually due around lease signing or before move-in, according to the lease instructions.
Security deposit
New York law generally limits the security deposit to one month’s rent. Official guidance.
Credit or background check
A landlord’s screening fee is generally capped at $20 and should be supported by a copy of the report and invoice. Official tenant guide.
Broker representation
Under New York City’s FARE Act, a landlord or the landlord’s listing agent cannot charge the tenant the landlord’s broker fee. A renter may choose to hire their own representative; any compensation and required fees should be explained before services begin. NYC broker-fee guidance.
FIND YOUR FIT
Compare areas before choosing a neighborhood.
Explore all areas →COMMON QUESTIONS
Renting in NYC from another country
Can I rent an apartment before I arrive in New York?
Yes, many searches can be handled remotely. Approval and signing procedures vary by landlord and building, so your agent will confirm what is possible and arrange live video tours when available.
What if I do not have U.S. credit history?
You may still have options. A landlord may consider income, funds, employment, university enrollment, a guarantor or an approved guarantor service.
Will I need a guarantor?
Not always. It depends on the landlord and your application. If one is needed, your agent can explain common personal and institutional guarantor routes.
Can students or roommates apply together?
Yes. Each applicant may need documents, and the landlord may assess the group’s combined profile or require guarantors.
When should I start searching?
Many renters begin planning several weeks before the move, then concentrate tours and applications closer to the lease start date.
Can you help outside Manhattan?
Yes. MoveToNYC works with agents serving Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island and New Jersey. Availability and licensing are matched to the search location.
Tell us what you need in New York.
We will respond as soon as possible and explain the best next step for your search.
This page provides general information and is not legal or financial advice. Requirements, availability and costs vary by property and applicant. The licensed real estate agent and brokerage responsible for any brokerage services will be identified before those services begin. MoveToNYC supports equal housing opportunity. Fair Housing Notice.