Problem Overview
Most renters don’t have any way to identify potential problems in their future homes. Without the formality of a homeowner’s inspection, tenants usually have to “go with their gut” simply based on the how the unit looks. Moreover, their new landlord or management company could turn out to be careless or even exploitative.
The resources are usually out there, though. Most large cities in the U.S. keep records about building owners, complaints that tenants have raised, and whether or not the building includes rent-regulated units.
I wanted to develop an app that would help renters gain this crucial background for any apartment building they’re considering, simply by entering the address.
Research - Background
I talked to four renters in large metro areas about:
-How they current research rentals they’re considering
-What their overall apartment hunt criteria is
-Previous issues they’ve dealt with in rentals
-Their interest in municipal housing resources
-Which format and features they’d want in a digital product
I also used an online survey with similar questions.