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Redfin Rentals Guide: Map-Based Search for Apartments and Houses
How to search rentals on Redfin, compare renting with buying on the same map, contact property managers, plan for fees and deposits, and avoid rental scams.
Redfin is a real estate brokerage and website that added rental search to the same map-based tool people use to look at homes for sale. If you like scanning a map street by street, or you are deciding between renting and buying, Redfin's rental section is worth a look. Here is how to get the most out of it.
What Redfin Rentals offers
You can search apartments, houses and condos for rent by neighborhood, property type and amenities. Filters cover budget, location and pet policy, among others. Rental listings may include photos, floor plans and 3D tours, and you can use the contact feature to reach a property manager to schedule a tour, ask a question or request an application.
A distinctive feature is the ability to switch between homes for rent and homes for sale on the same map, and to save favorites from both. Redfin also offers saved searches, a renter dashboard and planning resources such as an affordability calculator and a rent-or-buy tool.
How to search step by step
- Go to the rental search and type a city, neighborhood or ZIP code.
- Drag and zoom the map to focus on the streets, schools or commute routes that matter to you.
- Apply filters for maximum rent, bedrooms, bathrooms, property type and pets.
- Open listings to review photos, floor plans and any available 3D tour.
- Save the search so you can return to it, and mark your favorite listings.
- Use the contact form to ask questions, request a tour or ask how to apply.
- Tour the home in person or by live video before you commit to anything.
Costs and fees to expect
Searching on Redfin is free. The costs of renting are set by the landlord or property manager and generally include:
- Application fee: pays for credit and background screening, and may be charged per adult applicant.
- Security deposit: often linked to monthly rent; ask how and when it will be returned.
- First month's rent: usually required before or at move-in.
- Pet fees: a deposit, a one-time fee or monthly pet rent, depending on the property.
- Utilities and services: ask which are included and which you will pay separately.
If you are also considering buying, remember that buying brings a different set of costs, such as a down payment, closing costs, property taxes and maintenance.
Tips and rental-scam warnings
- Verify the property manager's identity and contact details through the listing or the management company's own website.
- Be suspicious of anyone who cannot show the home and asks for money first.
- Never pay with a wire transfer, gift card or cryptocurrency.
- Watch out for listings that copy photos from homes that are actually for sale.
- Read the full lease, including renewal terms and move-out rules, before signing.
- Keep all communication in writing where possible, so you have a record of what was promised.
- Report suspected fraud to the website and to the Federal Trade Commission.
Redfin's map makes it easy to compare neighborhoods quickly, but the final decision should rest on a real tour, a written lease and a landlord you have verified.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see homes for sale and for rent at the same time on Redfin?
Redfin lets you switch between rentals and homes for sale on the same map and save favorites from both.
How do I apply for a rental I find on Redfin?
Use the listing's contact feature to reach the property manager and request an application. The landlord handles screening and approval.
Does Redfin charge renters to search?
No, searching listings is free. Application fees and deposits are set by each landlord.
Sources
Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.