How to Find a Sublet in NYC: Facebook, Reddit, Craigslist and More (2024 Updated Guide)

In Our Experience...

Finding a sublet in NYC, like many things in this city, is a bit of a mystery.

I have years of personal experience subleasing and renting in NYC and other cities, too.

Every day, I help renters find subleases quickly and safely online at Atlas.

In this post, I'm going to tell you exactly where to find sublets, how to avoid getting scammed, and give you resources and tips to find a sublet quickly, safely, and legally.

Where to Find Sublets in NYC

Tenant-to-tenant listings on social media sites are the most popular and have the widest selection. Here are some of our favorites.

1. Facebook. If you’re looking for the most options Facebook has the most sublets by far. Some popular groups to look through are:

   • Gypsy Housing

   • Young Females: New York City, NYC- Apartments, Sublets, Roommates

   • NYC Short Term Sublets - New York

   • Sweats and the City

2. Reddit. If you like the personal touch of Facebook, Reddit has a higher quality of options due to better moderation. Some of our favourites are:

   • r/NYCapartments
   • r/NYCroommates

   Like with Facebook, we’ve organized these posts so you can search them easily.

3. Craigslist. A riskier bet, sometimes you can find great deals on Craigslist. Just be sure to look out for scams and follow our checklist to prevent yourself from getting burned.

Second to that, you can use dedicated subleasing platforms, these usually have less listings and are more expensive but the listings are (usually) verified.

Lastly, just asking around and using word-of-mouth can be a great way to find a sublet if you already have an established network in the city.

How to Stay Safe When Finding Sublets Online

There are plenty of horror stories of sublets gone wrong. Let’s make sure this doesn’t happen to you. Here’s a brief checklist on how to not get burned in the subleasing process. We have a more comprehensive guide here, as well.

Validate the Online Listing

• Photos and Videos

  Look for listings with photos that showcase all areas of the apartment, including common areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen. This isn’t always a red flag, but it can make it easier to prevent surprises down the line. Listings that include a video walkthrough offer an additional layer of transparency. Videos can help verify that the photos match the actual condition of the apartment.

• Descriptions

  The description should provide clear details about the apartment’s features, the building, and the neighborhood. Be wary of vague descriptions or ones that sound too good to be true.

• Reverse Image Search

  Use tools like Google Reverse Image Search to check if the photos are original or if they’ve been copied from another source. Sometimes people will use fake photos from other websites.

• Check Dates

  Make sure that the photos and videos are recent by looking for timestamps or asking the current tenant for verification.

Get In-Person Tours

• Firsthand Inspection

  An in-person tour allows you to verify the apartment’s condition, check for any maintenance issues, and ensure it matches the online listing.

• Neighborhood Feel

  Visiting in person helps you get a sense of the neighborhood, including noise levels, safety, and nearby amenities.

• Bring a Friend

  It’s always a good idea to bring someone with you for safety and a second opinion.

• Inspect Thoroughly

  Check for signs of pests, mold, or water damage. Test the appliances, plumbing, and electrical outlets to ensure everything is in working order.

Get a Virtual Tour (If You Must)

Sometimes you’re in a situation where you can’t tour your sublet in person. Maybe you’re out of the country or busy when viewings are available. If you have to get a video tour here are some ways to stay safe:

• Request a Live Tour

  Ask for a live video tour via a platform like Zoom or FaceTime. This can help you ask questions in real-time and ensure the tour is current and genuine.

• Red Flags

  During the video tour, pay attention to any inconsistencies or signs of damage that weren’t mentioned in the listing.

• Ask Questions

  During the tour, ask specific questions about the apartment’s condition, utilities, and any issues not visible in the video.

Meet Your Roommates

It’s really import that you meet your roommates before you sign anything, especially if you're staying long-term.

• Compatibility

  In terms of lifestyle, habits, and expectations, compatibility is important — especially for long-term sublet.

• Safety and Security

  Meeting your roommates also provides an opportunity to assess their character and confirm their identity.

• Set Up a Meeting

  Arrange to meet in a public place, over video call, or during the in-person tour to discuss living arrangements and house rules.

• Ask Questions

  Inquire about cleaning schedules, guest policies, and other aspects of communal living to avoid future conflicts.

Confirm Identities

Verifying the identities of the landlord, primary tenant, and any roommates is crucial to avoid scams and ensure that you’re dealing with legitimate individuals.

• Request Identification

  It may feel awkward to do but try to ask for a copy of the landlord’s ID, lease agreement, and/or proof of ownership or residence.

Sublease Agreements

It is critical that you use a proper sublease agreement when finding sublets both online and offline.

A sublease agreement protects both you and the primary tenant by clearly outlining the terms of the sublet and ensures everyone is on the same page regarding rent, duration, and responsibilities.

• Request Identification

  It may feel awkward to do but try to ask for a copy of the landlord’s ID, lease agreement, and/or proof of ownership or residence.

Tips for Signing a Sublease Agreement

1. Read it Carefully

   Thoroughly read the sublease agreement before signing. Look for details on rent, sublease duration, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and any specific conditions unique to the sublet.

2. Verify Rent and Deposits

   Make sure the rent amount, due date, and payment method are clearly stated, along with the conditions for returning the security deposit.

3. Double-Check Utility Responsibilities

   Confirm who is responsible for utilities, internet, and other bills during the sublease period.

4. Clarify Cleaning and Maintenance Duties

   Understand who handles repairs and maintenance issues. This is especially important in sublets, where responsibilities may differ from standard rentals.

5. Include Essential Clauses

   Make sure your agreement covers:

   • Sublease Duration: Clear start and end dates.
   • Termination Conditions: Terms under which the sublease can be ended early.

6. Use a Template

   Consider using a sublease agreement template from a reputable source like the Atlas New York Sublease Agreement that you can easily modify and share with the other people involved in your sublet.

7. Keep a Copy

   Retain a signed copy of the agreement for your records to refer back to if any issues arise. If you have an issue with your sublet, using a service like Atlas Pay can make sure you resolve any issues in a legal and compliant way without needing a lawyer.

8. Red Flags to Watch Out For

   • Pressure to Sign Quickly. Be wary if the landlord or primary tenant is rushing you to sign without allowing time for review.
   • Missing Details. Ensure that all verbal agreements are included in writing to prevent misunderstandings.
   • Ambiguous Language. Avoid agreements with vague or unclear language that could lead to disputes.

Paying for Your Sublet

Sublease payments are usually where things go wrong. Here are some best practices to make safe payments:

• Use a Secure Payment Method

  Opt for secure payment methods. Atlas Pay is the only way to pay for sublets that works in sync with your sublease agreement. It also has built-in identity verification, fraud and scam protection. Zelle and Venmo are other common ways to pay for sublets online. We compared their features and policies for sublets.

• Get a Receipt

  Always ask for a written receipt or confirmation of payment, detailing the amount paid and what it covers.

Moving In

You made it to the end! You found a sublet and you’re ready to settle down. Here’s some tips to ensure a smooth move-in.

• Inspect Again

  Conduct a thorough inspection of the apartment upon moving in to ensure that everything is as agreed upon.

• Document Everything

  Take photos or videos of the apartment’s condition to have a record in case of disputes regarding damages.

• Review the Lease

  Carefully read the lease agreement to understand your rights and responsibilities, as well as the landlord’s obligations.

• Know Your Rights

  Familiarize yourself with NYC tenant rights and regulations to protect yourself from unfair practices.

Conclusion

Finding a sublet in NYC doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the subletting process and secure a great apartment without falling victim to scams or surprises.

At Atlas , we're experts in sublets, lease takeovers, and shared living. With the right knowledge and precautions, you can find the perfect sublet and enjoy all that New York City has to offer.

Good luck with your search!