Lakewood Homes For Rent: Find Your Perfect Home

Finding the right home to rent can be a daunting task, especially in a competitive market like Lakewood. Whether you're looking for a cozy apartment, a spacious family home, or something in between, understanding the local market and knowing where to look is crucial. This guide will provide you with the insights and resources you need to navigate the Lakewood rental market successfully.

Why Choose Lakewood?

Lakewood offers a unique blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it an attractive place to live for a variety of people. Nestled in the heart of the Puget Sound region, Lakewood boasts beautiful parks, excellent schools, and a thriving community. Before diving into the specifics of renting, let’s explore why Lakewood might be the perfect place for you.

Key Benefits of Living in Lakewood:

• Parks and Recreation: Lakewood is home to numerous parks, including the stunning American Lake Park and Fort Steilacoom Park, offering residents plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
• Excellent Schools: The city boasts a strong school district, making it an ideal location for families.
• Convenient Location: With easy access to major highways and public transportation, commuting to nearby cities like Tacoma and Seattle is a breeze.
• Diverse Community: Lakewood is known for its diverse population and welcoming atmosphere.
• Affordable Living: Compared to Seattle, Lakewood offers a more affordable cost of living, especially in terms of housing.

Understanding the Lakewood Rental Market

Before you start your search, it’s essential to understand the current rental market in Lakewood. This includes knowing the average rental rates, the types of properties available, and the popular neighborhoods.

Average Rental Rates

The cost of renting in Lakewood can vary widely depending on the type of property, its location, and its amenities. As of late 2023 and early 2024, average rental rates are:

• Apartments (1-bedroom): $1,200 - $1,600 per month
• Apartments (2-bedroom): $1,500 - $2,000 per month
• Single-family homes (3-bedroom): $2,000 - $2,800 per month

These figures are approximate and can fluctuate based on market conditions. It’s always a good idea to check current listings and consult with local real estate professionals for the most up-to-date information.

Types of Rental Properties

Lakewood offers a diverse range of rental properties, including:

• Apartments: From modern complexes to older, more affordable buildings, apartments are a popular choice for renters.
• Single-family homes: Ideal for families or those who need more space, single-family homes offer the privacy and comfort of a traditional house.
• Townhouses: These multi-level units often come with amenities like garages and small yards.
• Condominiums: Condos can be a great option, offering a mix of apartment living with homeownership perks, though rental availability can vary.

Popular Neighborhoods in Lakewood

Choosing the right neighborhood is a key part of finding the perfect rental. Here are some popular neighborhoods in Lakewood:

• Lake Steilacoom: Known for its beautiful lakefront properties and upscale homes.
• Lakewood South: A more affordable area with a mix of apartments and single-family homes.
• Tillicum: A diverse neighborhood with a strong sense of community.
• West Lakewood: Offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with convenient access to shopping and dining.
• Fort Steilacoom: Close to the park of the same name, this area is popular for its outdoor amenities and community feel.

Where to Find Homes for Rent in Lakewood

Now that you have a better understanding of the rental market, let’s explore the best places to find homes for rent in Lakewood. There are several online resources and local options available to help you in your search.

Online Rental Platforms

Online rental platforms are a great place to start your search. These websites offer a wide range of listings and allow you to filter your search based on criteria like price, location, and amenities.

• Zillow: A comprehensive platform with a vast database of rental listings, including apartments, houses, and townhomes. Zillow also provides helpful tools like virtual tours and rental calculators.
• Apartments.com: Specializes in apartment rentals and offers detailed information about apartment complexes, including photos, floor plans, and reviews.
• Rent.com: Another popular platform for finding apartments and houses for rent, with features like 3D tours and verified listings.
• Craigslist: While it requires more caution due to potential scams, Craigslist can be a source for unique rental opportunities, especially from individual landlords.
• Realtor.com: A real estate platform that also includes rental listings, often updated directly from the MLS (Multiple Listing Service).

Local Real Estate Agents and Property Management Companies

Working with a local real estate agent or property management company can provide you with access to listings that may not be available online. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the Lakewood market and can help you find the right rental for your needs.

• Benefits of Using a Real Estate Agent:
  • Market Expertise: Agents have a deep understanding of the local market and can provide valuable insights.
  • Access to Listings: Agents often have access to exclusive listings that are not advertised online.
  • Negotiation Skills: Agents can help you negotiate lease terms and rental rates.
  • Time Savings: Agents can handle the search process for you, saving you time and effort.
• Property Management Companies:
  • Wide Range of Properties: Management companies often handle multiple rental properties, giving you a wide selection to choose from.
  • Professional Service: These companies provide professional property management services, ensuring a smooth rental experience.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Property management companies typically handle maintenance and repairs, making it easier for tenants.

Driving Around and Looking for Signs

Sometimes, the best way to find a rental is to drive around the neighborhoods you’re interested in and look for “For Rent” signs. This can be especially effective for finding rentals from individual landlords who may not list their properties online.

Tips for a Successful Rental Search

Finding the right rental can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

Set a Budget

Before you start looking at rentals, it’s important to set a budget. A general rule of thumb is that your rent should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. This will help ensure that you can afford your rent while still having enough money for other expenses.

Define Your Needs and Preferences

Make a list of your must-have features and nice-to-have features. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that meet your needs. Consider factors like:

• Location: Do you want to be close to work, schools, or public transportation?
• Size: How much space do you need?
• Amenities: Are there specific amenities that are important to you, such as a washer and dryer, parking, or a pet-friendly policy?
• Budget: What is the maximum rent you can afford?

Prepare Your Application Materials

When you find a rental you’re interested in, you’ll need to submit an application. To speed up the process, prepare your application materials in advance. This typically includes:

• Rental application: Most landlords will require you to fill out a rental application.
• Credit report: Landlords will often check your credit report to assess your creditworthiness.
• Proof of income: You’ll need to provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns.
• References: Landlords may ask for references from previous landlords or employers.
• Identification: You’ll need to provide a copy of your driver’s license or other form of identification.

Start Your Search Early

The rental market can be competitive, so it’s important to start your search early. Ideally, you should begin looking for rentals at least 1-2 months before your desired move-in date. This will give you plenty of time to find the right property and complete the application process.

Be Prepared to Act Quickly

When you find a rental you like, be prepared to act quickly. In a competitive market, desirable properties can be rented out quickly. Have your application materials ready and be prepared to submit an application as soon as possible.

Attend Viewings and Ask Questions

When you view a rental, take the opportunity to ask questions about the property and the lease terms. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any surprises down the road. Some questions you might want to ask include:

• What is the rent and security deposit?
• What utilities are included in the rent?
• What is the lease term?
• Are pets allowed?
• What is the parking situation?
• How are maintenance and repairs handled?

Read the Lease Carefully

Before you sign a lease, read it carefully to make sure you understand all the terms and conditions. Pay attention to details like the rent payment schedule, the security deposit policy, and the rules regarding pets and smoking. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the landlord or property manager. — Lompoc, CA: Your Ultimate Guide

Avoiding Rental Scams

Unfortunately, rental scams are a reality, and it’s important to be aware of them. Here are some tips for avoiding rental scams:

• Be wary of listings that seem too good to be true: If a rental is priced significantly below market value, it could be a scam.
• Never send money without seeing the property: Scammers often try to get you to send money before you’ve had a chance to see the rental in person.
• Meet the landlord or property manager in person: If possible, meet the landlord or property manager in person before you sign a lease or send money.
• Verify the landlord’s identity: Make sure the person you’re dealing with is the actual owner or property manager.
• Use a secure payment method: Avoid paying with cash or wire transfers, as these methods are difficult to trace. Use a secure payment method like a credit card or certified check.

Conclusion

Finding homes for rent in Lakewood requires a strategic approach and a good understanding of the local market. By setting a budget, defining your needs, preparing your application materials, and starting your search early, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect rental. Remember to be cautious of rental scams and always read the lease carefully before signing. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the Lakewood rental market and find a home you’ll love.

FAQ

What is the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Lakewood?

The average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Lakewood ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 per month, depending on the location and amenities.

How can I avoid rental scams?

To avoid rental scams, be wary of listings that seem too good to be true, never send money without seeing the property, meet the landlord in person, verify their identity, and use a secure payment method.

What documents do I need to apply for a rental in Lakewood?

You typically need a rental application, credit report, proof of income, references, and identification.

When should I start looking for a rental in Lakewood?

It's best to start your search 1-2 months before your desired move-in date to have ample time to find the right property. — University City, Philadelphia: A Complete Guide

Are pets allowed in rental properties in Lakewood?

Whether pets are allowed depends on the specific property and landlord. Check the listing details or ask the landlord directly about their pet policy. — Aurora Forecast Tonight: Where & When To See The Lights!

What are some popular neighborhoods in Lakewood for renters?

Popular neighborhoods include Lake Steilacoom, Lakewood South, Tillicum, West Lakewood, and Fort Steilacoom.

Should I use a real estate agent to find a rental in Lakewood?

Using a real estate agent can be beneficial as they have market expertise, access to more listings, and can help with negotiation. However, it's not mandatory, and you can find rentals on your own through online platforms and property management companies.