Usually you can't do 3 month leases. It's usually 1 year. That said, look at rates and what amenities they offer, and then choose which you think best serves your interests. Consider travel distance to and from where you want to go. Consider gas money when calculating distance. Aside from that, just try to find something you could be pleased with for a year. The thing about apartments is that after the year, they tend to raise rates, so unless you can lock in a 2yr lease, after the 1st year you will most likely move to save money.