Finding a rental in New York City
has never been easy

We’re here to make the process as effortless as possible.

In a rental market as competitive as ours, you need experienced local agents you can trust to guide you through the complex process.

From identifying listings to scheduling appointments to preparing your application, we want to make sure you find your dream home.

In This Guide

Where do I begin when renting a home in Brooklyn?

Timing, determining your budget and preparation—these are the first steps to securing a rental that’s right for you. If you’re not familiar with Brownstone Brooklyn, our agents have lived here for years and can provide you with valuable insights about the neighborhoods you’re considering.

When should I start my rental search?

Ideally, you should begin looking at apartments 30-45 days prior to the date you want your lease to begin. If you begin looking too soon, there might not be enough inventory to meet your needs—too late, and the market will likely be too picked over.

What’s a realistic Brooklyn rent budget?

On average, New Yorkers spend roughly 30% of their annual salary on rent, meaning, if you earn $100,000 per year, you could expect to spend around $2500 in rent each month or $30,000 per year. Most landlords require annual income of between 40-50 times the monthly rent, along with exemplary credit histories. But don’t let any of that freak you out—New York is the biggest city in the nation and it’s full of wonderful neighborhoods, many of which our agents call home themselves.

What should I prepare before renting in Brooklyn?

Most landlords in NYC request the following documentation to support your rental application:

  • Photo ID
  • Employment Verification Letter: This should state your position, salary (including bonuses, if any) and length of employment. If self-employed, provide a letter from your CPA outlining the nature of your business and earnings over the past two years.
  • Pay Stubs: Submit your two most recent pay stubs.
  • Tax Returns: Provide your two most recent tax returns. If self-employed, include schedule C.
  • Bank Statements: Submit your two most recent bank statements (checking and savings) with your name visible on the first page.
  • Landlord Reference Letter: While not always required, this can be helpful if you’re competing with other applicants.
  • Credit Report: Most landlords require a credit report run directly by the broker. It is legally prohibited to charge more than $20 for a credit and background check in NYC. However, co-op applications may involve additional fees. Let your agent know in advance if there are any potential issues with your credit report.

When should I use a guarantor for my rental?

If you don’t meet the landlord’s income or credit requirements, you may be able to enlist the help of a guarantor. A guarantor (often an immediate family member) signs a legal agreement guaranteeing payment and fulfillment of your lease.

Your guarantor will need to submit the same application and supporting documents outlined above. Most landlords require guarantors to have an annual income of 80 to 100 times the monthly rent or, if retired, demonstrate substantial assets or savings. Additionally, landlords typically prefer guarantors who reside within the tri-state area (NY, NJ or CT).

How do I apply for a Brooklyn apartment?

Once you’ve found the perfect home, your agent will assist you in compiling a thorough application for the landlord’s review. As part of the process, you’ll need to pay credit check fees ($20 per applicant in NYC).

Once the landlord approves your application, a lease signing will be scheduled. Your agent will inform you of all the payments required at the lease-signing, which typically include:

  • First Month’s Rent (certified check)
  • One Month’s Security Deposit (certified check)
  • Broker’s Fee

In New York, leases are often accompanied by the following riders and disclosures:

We also provide a Moving Checklist to help you prepare for your move.

How much is the broker’s fee in Brooklyn?

As of June 11, 2025 when the FARE Act went into effect, brokers no longer charge a fee to tenants. Instead, the party hiring the broker—typically the landlord or property manager—must pay the fee. Read our FARE Act blog post for more details.

Can you tell me more about my rights as a renter in NYC?

We encourage you familiarize yourself with your rights as a tenant in New York. Knowing is half the battle!

Contact us today to start your Brooklyn rental search.