There are a ton of things to consider when choosing a college apartment. Where are your friends living? What area of campus do you want to be near? Are you going to be off-campus or on-campus? How far is your commit to your 8:00 a.m. history class? These are all things you must consider when you’re searching for a new college apartment in the fall.
For some basic tips, you can check out our guide below to learn more.
Let’s say you’ve finally moved away from home and you’re ready to start your life as a college student. As an undergrad, you have plenty on your plate already. Sometimes, the expenses of on-campus housing only add to the stress.
Almost 90% of college students in the U.S. live off-campus. If you’re searching for a college apartment for the first time, however, you might not know where to look.
Here are the six tips you need to find the perfect college apartment. With these tips, you can complete the process without stress. Discover your new home sweet home with these apartment hunting tips today!
Ask Around
First, ask friends or family members who live in the area if they can suggest a college apartment complex. If you don’t have many contacts in the area, that’s okay. Instead, check out your campus on- and offline bulletin boards.
Bulletin boards usually list a number of housing opportunities for students. You can find housing near the campus that appeals to college students.
Know Your Budget
Before choosing between college apartments, make sure to consider your budget. You can see how much an average apartment costs in your state here.
Room, board, and personal expenses make up about half of a college student’s costs. Living off-campus can help you save money. However, you need to shop around for apartments before making your choice.
How much can you afford to pay on rent each month? Once you know your budget, you can focus on apartments that only fit that budget.
Look at Location
Before choosing a complex, consider its proximity to campus. How will you travel to classes? Will you have to pay for parking fees?
Is the apartment complex in a safe location?
Consider how you’ll travel before choosing a location so you end up with one that suits your needs.
Explore Utilities
Do the included utilities include electricity, water, trash collection, and the internet? Sometimes, utilities only account for one of these.
When searching for a college apartment, look for a complex that covers the utilities you need. Make sure to ask how much you’ll pay for additional utilities and if that cost is included with rent.
Take a Tour
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take a tour.
Do the apartment units come furnished or unfurnished? What amenities are offered in the complex? Do you like the space?
Taking a virtual tour (instead of trusting photos) can help learn more when college apartment shopping.
For example, if you’re attending Yale in the fall, you can explore the new haven apartments online before taking a tour in person.
Review the Lease
Make sure you understand what’s included in the lease. Can you negotiate the price down? What’s your leasing term?
What potential lease violations might you come across?
Understanding the fine print can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Get Out of the Dorms: 6 Tips to Help You Choose a College Apartment
Ready to find your home? Use these tips to choose the best college apartment for your needs. With these tips, you can start focusing on your classes instead of stressing over where you’ll live!
Searching for an apartment? Start your search by browsing through our college apartment listings today.
