Renting as a College Student

For many college students, renting off-campus is a major part of the college experience.

Exciting, too. I, for one, couldn’t wait to live with friends. We were looking for something affordable, sure, but what we wanted most was an awesome place to throw parties. And while a great space to hang out for a reasonable price is important, there are many other factors to keep in mind. Luckily, you get to learn from our mistakes.

For example, it wasn’t brought to our attention until after we moved in that the locks to our house were never changed. This wasn’t such a big deal until we learned the previous renters never returned their keys. When we told our landlord, she tried to make us pay for replacing the locks. Though she eventually covered the costs, it took a lot of back-and-forth before she gave in.

So here are a few tips so you don’t get blinded by the excitement of renting on your own for the first time.

1. Ask questions

While you’re walking through your potential new home, ask the landlord every question that pops into your head. It’s better to ask a ridiculous question—or a ridiculous amount of questions—than end up being stuck in a place that doesn’t work.

An even better plan is to make a list of all the questions you have before the walkthrough so you don’t forget something important. Here are a few to get you started:

• Are utilities included in the rent?
• What’s the security deposit, and will I get it back?
• If the rental is pet friendly, what’s the pet fee? Are there additional requirements/costs that come with pets (e.g., deep carpet cleaning upon move-out)?
• Do I need renter’s insurance?
• Is there a washer and dryer on the property?

2. Start looking sooner rather than later

When you have several months before fall term, it might seem like you have plenty of time before you need to start looking… but you don’t. Depending on the size of your college, there could be thousands of other students looking for places to live off-campus.

The earlier you start looking, the better places you’ll find. The apartments and houses closest to campus are always the first to go, and the convenience of living close to campus is hard to beat.

3. Don't be afraid to explore

You may have already decided that you want to live in a house, apartment, or townhome, but go into your search with an open mind. You may be surprised at what ends up being the best fit. The layout of places can be very different, too, and can make all the difference in comfort. Do you want an open feel (great for parties), or more separation between spaces for privacy? Just make sure to consult all of your roommates if you’ve decided to live with others.

4. Application fees add up

Most rentals require an application fee, but don’t let that stop you from looking at a bunch of options—you won’t be charged for looking. Then you can apply only for the places that you and your roommates really want.

Being smart about applications frees up money you could spend on an even nicer rental. Or on the security deposit. Or on a dinner out to celebrate your awesome new place.

5. Be aware of security deposits