Knowing , right , left , forward , back , north , south , east , west , does make life easier.
On the north patio , install a ANT751 antenna aimed at about 300 degrees magnetic compass. (north/west).
Here is how to aim antennas ,
http://www.kyes.com/antenna/pointing/pointing.html.
Here is a stand that makes a great stand for a antenna on a patio or balcony.
http://www.ronard.com/909911.html.
The prefered way to get the coax from the antenna from the outside of the building to the inside of the building is a hole through the wall.
Here is another way to do it , Holland 144823 flat cable.
Buy the Holland 144823 flat cable at solidsignal by typing holland 144823 in the solidsignal search box.
Buy the ronard antenna mount at solidsignal by typing the word ronard in the solidsignal search box or buy from ronard.
Buy the ANT751 antenna at solidsignal by typing ant751 in the solidsignal search box.
Here are places to buy antennas and etc. ,
http://www.solidsignal.com ,
http://www.amazon.com.
Here is the Federal Antenna Law that says yes you can install and use a antenna that is on a patio or balcony.
http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html.
And before you say that hole through the wall is not allowed.
Are there any small satellite dishes outside of the buildings??
And most likely how does the coax from the small satellite dishes get from the outside of the building to the inside of the apartment.