Move in July or September?

Generally, the rental season drops off in August, so there should be less competition for apartments at that point (unless you're looking in a heavily student-populated area). But there is a little less inventory then, too.

I would say keep an eye out for July. If you find something great, take it. If not, wait till September. The fact that your landlord will let you go month-to-month gives you a lot of flexibility - make the most of it.

Tina
(Brooklyn broker)

Why not just start looking now so that you get the lay of the land & then, once you become an authority on the area you want to move to, you'll have the knowledge & a feel for the market & know what to do. Good luck!

Thanks for your advice, guys. I feel lucky that I have a couple months of breathing room to look around!

Laura,

Re: price - I think you (or anyone) would do better in September than in July. I think landlords are hoping things pick up a bit this summer (i.e. lots of renters willing to pay as close to last year's price as possible) and when it doesn't, reality will set in. I think the later we get into summer, the lower prices will drop (end of July, August, Sept). Summer is the busiest rental time and if things aren't renting, LL's will be forced to drastically drop the price or take the risk of losing a year's worth of rental income. Stay tuned. It should be interesting :). Good Luck!

UWSmom, that's a great point. My rent in BK is so low now that I've decided to stay until September and then I'll find my own place. I'm hoping to land on the UWS or UES--I will keep you guys posted on how the cheapy-cheap search goes.