Tips for Renting Off Campus Housing

Applying for rental housing

The application process will vary from property to property. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Contact the landlord or property manager and tour the place. Make sure to see it in-person before you pay any deposits.
• Fill out an application form. If you are unemployed or have limited funds, you may be asked to find another adult to be your guarantor (co-signer).
• A background check is often required by the property manager. You may be asked to find another adult to be your guarantor (co-signer).
• Pay an application fee or a deposit.
• Receive an answer in approximately two to 10 business days.

Rental Agreements

A rental agreement, or lease, is a legal contract that defines the terms of your rental, including the amount of rent, when rent is due, deposits and fees, damage policies, parking, maintenance and more.

To avoid problems, make sure you understand the agreement completely before you sign it, and inspect the rental unit for damage before you move in. Talk over everything with your potential landlord. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

What to Know Before Signing a Lease

Here are some important questions to consider before signing a lease:

• How long is the lease?
• Can I extend my lease when it ends?
• Can the terms change when I renew my lease?
• What is the cost of rent?
• What utilities are included and what utilities should you expect to pay for and or set up on your own?
• When is rent due?
• What forms of payment are acceptable?
• How much is the damage deposit and when will it be returned?
• Should all roommates sign the lease?
• Should each roommate pay for rent individually?
• Does the landlord allow subletting?
• If I need to end my lease early due to emergency, what are my options?
• Is there a noise curfew?
• Are parties allowed?
• Can the apartment be painted?
• How should pictures and decorations be hung on the walls?
• Is a co-signer needed?
• Is insurance required?

Furnishings

Rental accommodations may come furnished or unfurnished. The rental listing should make it clear what is included if "furnished". An unfurnished apartment does not include beds, tables, chairs, sofas, lamps or small appliances, but it usually includes major appliances such as a stove, refrigerator and dishwasher.

Furnished rentals are the most convenient option, but unfurnished rental housing may be less expensive especially if you already have your own furniture. Rental furniture is available separately through a company like CORT furniture rental. However, buying used furniture from the local classifieds or consignment store may be the most cost effective option.

Utilities

Utilities include gas, water, electricity, internet, cable, and trash/recycling removal.

Some apartments offer a fixed utility rate included in the rent that covers some or all of the utilities mentioned above. Ask your landlord or apartment manager what utilities are included in the rent.

If utilities are not included, you'll pay a separate bill (or bills) for the utilities you use. Ask your landlord or apartment manager how much you can expect to spend on utilities.

You may be able to reduce your utilities costs by limiting the amount of resources you use. Here are some ways to spend less on utilities:

• Turn off lights when you don't need them and switch to energy-efficient light bulbs.
• Turn off "vampire" electronics. If it has an LED light on, it's using electricity. If you can do without, turn it off and unplug if you can.
• Keep air vents open and clear and use heat sparingly in the winter. Break our your favorite college hoodie!
• Use appliances wisely. If you have a modern dishwasher, you likely don't need to rinse the dishes with extra water. Also, try washing your clothes in cold water instead of paying to heat the wash water.
• Take shorter and cooler showers to use less water and reduce heating expenses.

Avoid Scams

Students should be wary of housing scams. Most housing scams involve sending cash or wiring funds via Western Union, MoneyGram, money order, cashier's check or through some kind of “guarantee.” If the landlord or apartment manager refuses to meet face to face before asking you for a payment, that’s a sign that something is suspicious. Please use caution.

The following practices can help you avoid being scammed:

• Never wire funds via Western Union, MoneyGram or other wire service.
• Never give out personal financial information (bank account number, credit card number, eBay/PayPal account information, etc.).
• Avoid deals involving shipping or escrow services.
• Don't rent housing without seeing it in person.
• Do your research. Check reviews for the property if available. Larger housing complexes have plenty of online information including social media posts.
• Don't submit to credit or background checks until you have met the landlord or agent in-person.

Recomendations for finding a good roommate

• Ask around for referrals from friends, family, and colleagues: These people can give you an honest opinion about potential roommates and can help you find someone with similar interests and values.
• Make sure to check references: Ask for references from other roommates or landlords and make sure to contact them and ask questions about the person’s reliability and living habits.
• Set clear expectations: Have a written agreement that outlines your expectations for rent, household chores, guests, noise levels, and other important details.
• Meet in person: Before making a decision, meet with the potential roommate and make sure you are comfortable with them.
• Interview: Ask questions about their lifestyle and expectations so you can ensure that they are a good fit for you and your living space.
• Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it’s likely not. Don’t be afraid to keep looking for a better fit.