What makes a good agent?
Do I need an agent?
A good agent can save you time and trouble. Agents have advanced access to more available apartments so they can help you find and land a better deal than if you search on your own. The tradeoff is price. Paying a fee can alter what you can afford. No one likes that. Don't forget, agents love no-fee apartments too - it's a huge incentive for their client to rent the place!
A good agent offers choices
The apartment a renter eventually decides on is often times not the one he or she first inquired about. More often, it is one the agent matched to the renter's needs and expectations. Finding and working with a broker who you trust and listens to you is important.
A good agent listens and knows the area
Is the agent showing you apartments that match your stated needs? Is the agent helpful in describing the neighborhood, the rental building, the transportation concerns, the noise issues, etc.? If your agent is experienced he or she will be full of useful information. If not, that agent isn't the right one for you.