Student Apartment Search Tips- Things to Consider

By Ashley Paskill on April 1, 2018

Looking for an apartment that meets your needs can be stressful, especially if it is your first time. The number of things to take into consideration can seem daunting and finding the perfect room for your budget can seem impossible. However, there are things that you can keep in mind to help you narrow down your search.

1. Price

This is probably the most important factor in your search, especially as a student with limited funds. If you are relying on financial aid, make sure you have enough to cover your rent each month and save in advance. You may want to consider a part-time job to reduce the number of loans you will need to take out and to supplement financial aid. Also, as you are looking, check to see if utilities are covered in the monthly rent. If not, keep these in mind as you look for a room to fit your budget. The more bedrooms you need, the higher the rent, but the price will be split between each roommate.

2. Location

Location is also one of the most important factors. If you do not have access to a car, you will need an apartment near campus where you can walk. Another option is finding an apartment near public transportation that you can take to campus. If you do have a car, your options are fairly open, just as long as you take into account for the time it will take you to commute to campus and account for traffic. Also, keep in mind the crime rate in the neighborhood to reduce the risk of anything happening you while walking to and from campus and that the apartment itself is safe.

3. Roommates

Do you want roommates? This is a huge factor in your search as it determines the number of bedrooms you will need to get. Do not let the price of the extra bedrooms scare you, however. If the rent for the whole apartment is $1800 a month for three bedrooms, each person only has to pay $600 if you have one person in each room. If boyfriends/girlfriends are sharing a bedroom and you have more than one person in each room, the rent per person will decrease. Make sure you find roommates that you will be able to tolerate the length of your lease.

4. Pets

Many people want to have their pets with them, but many landlords do not allow cats or dogs. Check with your landlord for specifics about what animals they do allow. Even if they do not allow cats and dogs, they may allow small animals such as guinea pigs, hamsters, or fish. Even if you are allowed to have cats and dogs, be sure to keep your apartment clean, as leaving a mess from your animals will discourage your landlord from allowing them in the future. If you have a dog, make sure you clean up when he/she goes number 2, even outside.

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