Rental demand is up as more hold off on buying a home

Finding a job isn't the only problem plaguing college graduates.  They're also finding it difficult to find an apartment.  With more Americans putting their home buying dreams on hold, demand for rentals is up.

Financial experts say there are many reasons people aren't buying homes.  Some may not have the money, others have bad credit and some are waiting for the market to completely bottom up.  The National Association of Realtors projects that rent will increase about 4% in 2012 and another 4% in 2013.

Experts suggest that if your finances are solid, brag about it.  Point out your good credit history, solid employment history and references to your potential landlord.  It will make you stand out as a model tenant.

Other ideas include to offer to sign a lease longer than a year if you can, or barter your expertise to help out your landlord, like offering landscaping or construction skills.