Dear Ms.Divine,
I think the best way you rent apartment is from agent.
You can ask help from Chinese talk to the agent near your ideal location.
For example:
How much each month you can accept?
How many square will comfort for you?
The apartment should close to the market ,restanrant or sub way ?
Generally ,you have to pay two month rent for deposit and the contract will last for 1 year , they will return deposit once you finish your contract.
You have to pay 50% to the agent once you sign,but the servise checking the apartment is for free.
Try to find a new building that no trouble in the raining season.