Take a tour of the Big Easy either online or in person. Learn about the different communities on websites such as NewOrleansOnline.com. When you arrive in New Orleans, hop a streetcar or ride the bus to explore its historic neighborhoods. You'll find three different lines Canal Street, St. Charles and the Riverfront. They all originate downtown and travel to different areas of New Orleans. View information about prices, routes and schedules online at the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority's website, or via the NORTA Rideline at (504) 248-3900.
Review each neighborhood's history on the Preservation Resource Center of New Orlean's website. It provides downloadable brochures complete with maps for 20 of New Orleans' nationally registered historic districts. You can also visit the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans at 923 Tchoupitoulas Street, or call the office at (504) 581-7032.
Walk around districts like Vieux Carré, or The French Quarter, New Orleans' oldest neighborhood. It offers apartment shoppers subdivided Victorian mansions and townhomes dating back to the 1800s. Downriver from downtown is the Faubourg Marigny, where artists and musicians live. Upriver from the city center is the Garden District, well known for 19th century mansions and fine restaurants. Choose the neighborhoods you like the best and keep your apartment search focused on those areas.
Evaluate your housing needs and develop a budget to guide your search. Decide how much you want to spend on rent. If you are relocating for a new job, take into consideration your place of work, how far the commute is and accessibility of public transportation.
Buy copies of the major local newspapers like The Times-Picayune or pick up a free copy of the Gambit Weekly. Browse their classified sections for available apartments. You can also see rentals online at The Times Picayune and Gambit Weekly websites.
Check online classified advertising sites like Craigslist New Orleans.
Take note of any apartment rental signs you come across during excursions. Be sure and follow up if they offer a phone number or knock on doors to see the available property. Most likely these rentals aren't listed elsewhere, so it's best to pursue desirable prospects immediately.
Make appointments with landlords to view your most favorite apartments. Take time to see all of the potential properties before picking the perfect apartment for you.
