Deciding what type of place you should rent can be a head-scratcher. Do you save money and live in a smaller place? Do you pay more and avoid the crowded feeling of an apartment complex? We've broken the rental decision-making process down into three main groups—cost, space and neighbors. We've weighed the pros and cons of each type of rental unit, so you don't have to. 

Read on for some insight into which rental path is right for you.

Deciding where to rent is a big decision that can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. All too often, renters are surprised and frustrated by the policies of their property managers, simply because they didn't know about those policies before signing their leases. When meeting with your potential future property manager, it's important to come prepared with a set of questions that can properly gauge how satisfied you will be with your living arrangement after you've signed on the dotted line. 

Check out these key questions to ask your property manager before you sign your lease.

It goes without saying that landlords prefer to rent to tenants who they know will pay on time each month. To do this, they check each tenant's credit score before approving a move-in. With this in mind, it's easy to see that having a poor credit score can damage your renting prospects—but what does it take to rent an apartment when your credit history has room for improvement?

Read on to see how your credit score can affect your rental options.

When seeking the perfect rental for a more urban lifestyle, many people turn to the desirable nature of a loft that offers the work-play atmosphere that is increasing in popularity. With more and more households in search of the walkability of a bustling neighborhood, lofts can offer a lot in terms of aesthetic and convenience.

Here are a few things we recommend keeping in mind when going on the hunt for a loft apartment.

You did it! You found the coolest apartment in town, and you couldn't be happier. There's just one thing—the property manager doesn't provide parking spaces or lot parking for residents. When it comes to street parking, no two neighborhoods are built alike, but there are some surefire tips you can keep in mind to get the best experience.

Here are four things to keep in mind when approaching a street-parking routine.

Being honest on your rental paperwork is crucially important. In fact, as of July 1, 2018, South Dakota laws allow landlords to evict or fine tenants who misrepresent their need for a service animal when renting. That's why you should only attempt to qualify for a service animal in your rental unit if you meet the state's ascribed criteria.

So what qualifies a person to have a service/assistance animal in a rental property in South Dakota?

When it comes to apartment-hunting, weighing the pros and cons between "safe/comfortable/attractive" and "affordable/budget-friendly" can be a task. However, there are measures you can take to make searching for an ideal place even easier.

Here are some starter tips for finding a safe, comfortable apartment on a budget.

Are you thinking about renting as a senior? If it's been a while since you've rented, or this is your first time, there are some important factors every senior should know. Before you start the apartment search, know what's available to you—from your neighborhood options to budgetary assistance to your renter rights.

Read on for our guide to renting as a senior.

Depending on the number of listings in your community, your apartment search might be a one-and-done situation, or you may visit several units before committing. Regardless, make sure you spend your time wisely by taking the right steps to obtain the best possible option.

Here are five tips for a worthwhile apartment hunt.

If you're ready to call Aberdeen home, your rental housing needs may soon be met. South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) can be a great first step toward finding affordable rentals. Apartment-hunters in South Dakota's third-largest city should read on for a guide to local property managers and other important info.