I helped a friend who got dumped by his long term spouse find an apartment twice recently now. First place for 2 years and second to get more space and office area. I also have rented a few apartments for various reasons while also owning in the past. So I have a few thoughts that might help…
There are legitimate local rental sites and agencies as opposed to marketplace or other places. We found both of their apartments on this site. Scammers are a very real risk if one is not careful.
They needed to heal physically, financially and mentally so chose very basic apartments that were managed by reputable entities and they were as close as practical to work.
We checked out the location of the apartments at various times of day and night considered the terrain, weather, parking, commutes etc
They checked out the cost of utilities and chose an apartment with significantly lower costs of utilities (just because of the electrical provider and the energy efficient features).
They were able to stay with a roommate situation with someone they knew at first so they were able to fix their credit their ex ruined, save for high deposit costs, and get a great rental reference (not suitable for everyone but worked for them).
They picked a place that was very modest in price for their income.
They saved to have 2 months rent and 100 percent of the rent deposit.
They got advice and help understanding the lease terms as appropriate.
They would never rent a higher floor apartment in a building with stairs and no elevator again
Some people have been able to find nice situations by word of mouth as well.