You can get free rent through one of three methods: Opportunities to get free rent by all three of these methods may be found simply by checking the classified advertising section of newspapers in the area you wish to live in. Most of the opportunities will be listed under "Help Wanted". Managing apartments consists of collecting rents, showing vacancies, making minor repairs such as leaky faucets, replacing light bulbs - and taking care of the grounds. Some units even pay a small salary - depending on the size of the complex. In a very large complex there is usually a separate maintenance man and/or caretaker. The manager only handles rent collecting and showing the vacant units.
These positions normally pay only a token salary along with free rent.
House-sitting is much more attractive to the average person. The only drawback is that most opportunities are for short terms, 3 months to a year. However, if you only want to locate to an area for a short period of time, this is the way to do it and live rent-free. Many people would rather have someone occupy their home during their absence than have it sit empty. You would be expected to maintain the premises and treat it "better" than as if it were your own.
1) Manage an apartment.
2) As a building caretaker.
3) House-sitting.