If you are tired of living in the dorms and you want a little more space, off-campus housing can be a great option for you. Off-campus housing will allow you to live close to school while enjoying lower rates at the same time. When it comes to moving into off-campus housing, you need to do your research to get the process right.
#1: Choosing a Roommate
Most off-campus student housing is designed to be shared with multiple people. That is why you will want to look for a roommate before you start looking for an apartment. A roommate can also make off-campus student housing more affordable.
Remember, with a roommate; you are looking for someone who you are compatible living with, not someone who you love going out with. Take the process of finding a roommate seriously. You will want to make sure your leisure activities, schedule, and study habits line up together.
For example, if you work a job bartending three times a week and get home around two or three in the morning multiple nights a week, a roommate on the crew team who needs to be up at 5 a.m. multiple times a week would be a bad scheduling match. You would both likely awake and disturb the other.
Look beyond friendship and try to find someone who matches your living needs.
#2: Visit Apartments in-Person
Second, it is essential to visit any apartment you are interested in renting in-person. Don't just look at pictures online and decide to rent a place. Pictures do not tell the whole story. Always visit an apartment in person to get a real idea of its quality. This also allows you to ask the landlord questions and even see if you can get the inside scoop from a neighbor about living in the property.
#3: Get Renter's Insurance
When you find a house or apartment to rent, you will want to get renter's insurance. Renter's insurance is a minimal cost and will protect all of your personal property against damage and theft. Renter's insurance will also help you pay for housing if your apartment is damaged in any way and you can't stay there for a period of time.
When it comes to renting student housing off-campus, take your time to find a quality roommate. Always check out the rental in-person to get the full picture of the rental quality, and once you get a place, purchase a renter's insurance policy for yourself.
Contact a provider of housing like SWOSU student housing.
