Search Considerations

Everyone has different priorities when it comes to housing. Below are some questions to ask yourself before you begin searching for your apartment which can help you narrow your search to find something that is the right fit for your needs.

Location

  • How long does it take to travel to campus?
  • Can you walk/bike or do you need to drive to campus?
  • Is it close to public transportation?
  • Is it close to other things like grocery stores, restaurants, laundromats, recreational facilities, social activities?
  • Are there other students nearby, or is it mainly a single family neighborhood?

Personal Safety

  • Would you feel comfortable living there day and night?
  • Are all windows and doors in good condition and lockable?
  • Are there smoke/carbon monoxide detectors?
  • Is there more than one fire exit from the unit?
  • Is the entrance well lit?
  • Is your view blocked by shrubs?
  • Who has access to the house key, and when were the locks last changed?

Beware of Scams

  • Do not rent a place you only looked at online or in a newspaper. Make sure you tour the property first. Always bring a friend on your tour.
  • Never share personal information beyond your first and last name and contact information.
  • Be extra cautious of special deals to get you to sign a lease fast and early.

Housing Unit Considerations

  • Is the unit furnished? If so, what is included? Is the furniture in good condition?
  • What utilities (electric, gas, water, sewer, garbage, cable, internet) are provided and who pays for each of them?
  • Are pets allowed? If so, what are the limitations? What are the additional costs?
  • Are laundry facilities provided?
  • Are kitchen appliances in working order?
  • Are the ceilings and walls in good repair? Is the carpet/floor clean?
  • Does the plumbing work? Is there a good supply of hot water (ask current tenants)?
  • Are there sufficient electrical outlets, and do they work?
  • Are there adequate telephone and/or cable jacks? Is it cable/Internet ready?
  • Will moving in and out be difficult because of stairs or narrow hallways or doorways?
  • What type of parking is available? Do you need a permit to park on the street? Is the parking sufficient? Is the parking area well lit?
  • Is there any evidence of pests?
  • If looking at renting an apartment, can you hear the people above or below you?
  • Is there enough storage space (closets, basement, garage, etc.)?

Your Responsibilities

  • Who is responsible for snow shoveling?
  • Who is responsible for mowing the lawn?
  • Does the lawn have to be watered or is there a sprinkler system? Who pays for the water?
  • Who is responsible for pest control?
  • Are you responsible for your own maintenance, or is there a maintenance service provided?
  • Has the unit been cited for a code violation recently?

Other Considerations

  • What is your total monthly budget, including rent and utilities (remembering to also think about the cost for food, transportation, and other necessities)?
  • How much is the rent? What is included in the rent (e.g. trash, water)?
  • How long is the lease? What months does it cover?
  • If you go on an internship or a study abroad trip during the lease, is subleasing your space allowed?
  • Who is responsible for paying utilities hookup/installation fee?
  • What is NOT included in the rent?
  • What type of heating is used (gas or electric), and how may that impact your heating bill?
  • What are the late fees if you do not pay your rent on time?
  • If you own a pet, what is the pet fee and/or pet deposit?