When planning your apartment search, keep the following in mind:
Luxury properties are generally shown well in advance (15-45 days) of their actual availability. Moderately priced apartments in non-doorman buildings may be available within mere days of viewing. Allow at least five business days for the processing of paperwork.
The extreme amount of paperwork and lengthy approval process required for cooperatives and condominium buildings can delay move-ins for 30-45 days after the selection. You will need to be flexible as to the move-in date.
The majority of leases in doorman buildings begin on the first or the fifteenth of the month.
Searching for an apartment too early can restrict the selection available. Landlords typically offer apartments 30 to 60 days before they become available.
Once an official lease approval has been received, you will need to arrange for a move-in date with either the landlord or building superintendent. This may involve reserving the building's service elevator. It is important to note that move-ins are usually limited to business hours, Monday through Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
