Before you begin your rental search, set your requirements. Understand the types of leases, agreements, deposit requirements, and questions to ask the landlord. Analyze your finances, and know exactly how much you can afford to pay per month.

Find the right community. Your current surroundings will reflect your family's preferences. You might want something similar or opt for something completely different in your new location. Whatever your likes and dislikes, be open to the advantages of your new locale.

• Every destination has fashionable communities, but you may find rents are lower in less popular areas.
• Take a test drive at rush hour to determine commuting time and to find out if bus transportation is available for your school-age children.
• Consider the quality of the school system.

Our Community Checklist will help you identify your needs in terms of general location, attributes, and convenience. If you have school-age children, use our Schools Checklist to evaluate the school system.