1. Zillow Rentals

The Zillow Rentals app (Apple, Android) gives users access to spaces for rent throughout the country. You have the ability to personalize a search with specific features such as pet policy, in-unit laundry or on-site parking, and then save the searches that interest you the most. Zillow applies its Zestimate technology, best recognized to estimate the market value of a home, to show Rent Zestimates, making it easier for renters to compare an asking rent with others in the local area.

2. Trulia Rentals

Trulia Rentals (Apple, Android) helps streamline inquiries with its one-click feature, which puts interested renters in direct contact with the property manager, without having to fill out an inquiry form for every apartment they're interested in or search for a phone number. The Trulia Neighborhoods feature allows renters to learn important details about the area a rental is in, with surveyed opinions from local residents on safety and walkability, photos of the area and whether local laws protect gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations.

3. Apartment List

Apartment List (Apple, Android) initially opens to ask you a series of questions about your next rental – location, budget, how you prioritize those details and what amenities are most important to you. Once you've answered the questions, Apartment List presents you with categorized groups of rental listings that match everything you want or are a bit kinder on your budget, among other options. When going through the listings, you can create a short list of favorites by approving or rejecting your options like you would on a dating app.

4. Apartments.com

Apartments.com's app (Apple, Android) provides real-time availability on a map-based app, with a focus on including details of the amenities apartment communities offer and additional fees renters can expect. Filters make it easy to search within your own parameters, from school information to commute to work or other spots you frequent. Apartments.com also verifies its listings to cut down on the possibility of scam listings or dated information.

5. HotPads

HotPads (Apple, Android) is best known for its apartment listings in major cities, but the app displays inventory throughout the country. Features include neighborhood details, such as nearby schools and a walk score, to help you get a feel for the area around the apartment you're considering. If you find a listing that you think would be a great fit for a friend or family member, the share button allows you to send the information with a couple simple clicks.

According to realestate.usnews.com. Source of photo: internet