<human>: I'm moving from DC Metro area to Richmond, VA in 3 weeks to finish up my bachelor's degree at VCU.  I only got my acceptance letter a week ago, so this is coming up very quickly.

Next Wednesday I plan on going to Richmond to look for apartments/houses to rent.  Should I go through a realtor?  Do they charge you?  Should I make a list of apartments I found on the internet and just go visit them?

Also, I am currently employed but will not be working when I move there.  I am waiting for my financial aid package, but I anticipate $5,500 in Pell grant and about $10,000 in federal student loans.  Will I be able to secure a lease with my paystubs from my current job and my award package?  I will have enough money for the security deposit and first month's rent before my financial aid money comes through.

Also, just general tips and tricks.  I'm a little nervous because I will be living with my 3 year old twins alone for the first time.  (Quit college at 19, married, had twins, divorced.)

Can you summarize the given text in a few sentences?
<bot>: Need pro-tips on how to rent in a city I don't live in yet. Also, concerned about getting a lease with no employment, only student loans.