Searching for apartments in Riverside via traditional apps (Zillow, Apartments.com) is expensive because landlords pay fees. On Craigslist, you find the "mom and pop" landlords.
Do not use Venmo or Zelle with strangers. IE scammers have hacked accounts. Cash only. Bring a counterfeit pen (99 cents at Office Depot). Fake $100 bills circulate heavily in the inland swap meet circuit. Craigslist Riverside Ca Inland Empire
This is arguably the most competitive section. Due to LA residents moving east for lower costs, rents in Riverside have skyrocketed, but Craigslist still offers hidden gems. Searching for apartments in Riverside via traditional apps
Many people in Riverside commute to LA or Orange County. This means the "For Sale" section is flooded with hybrid cars and high-mileage Toyotas. It also means people are desperate to sell large items (couches, TVs) quickly because they are moving to a cheaper city or upgrading before a long drive. This is arguably the most competitive section
Most people ignore the "Community" section. Don't.
Do not take photos of your couch with your messy dorm room in the background. Take it outside against a stucco wall with a palm tree shadow. That "SoCal aesthetic" signals cleanliness and increases your price by 20%.