If you’re a college student, chances are you’re probably all too familiar with college housing. While some students enjoy living in college dorms because of the proximity to classes and school events, the truth is dorm rooms are not for everyone.
For many college students, the idea of sharing an 8×10 cramped dorm room with another person just isn’t very appealing.
Whether you are just moving out of your parent’s house for the first time, or are making the transition from a dorm room to off-campus housing, there are some important things you should know. This month, E-Z move brings you 3 tips for moving into off-campus housing.
Start The Hunt for Off-Campus Housing Early
Don’t make the mistake of waiting until the weeks preceding the first day of classes to find a place to live. Many college students put off their housing search until the last minute resulting in far more competition to find a house or apartment.
So, when should you start applying for off-campus housing?
It is best to start looking at least a few months in advance. But don’t limit your search to just one place. We recommend looking at several different options including apartments, condos and houses and weighing out the benefits of each.
Inspect the Property Carefully
Unfortunately, some landlords will try to take advantage of college students’ inexperience so be sure to do a thorough examination of your prospective house or apartment before you sign a lease.
We recommend inspecting the entire rental property and making a note of the condition of all the rooms, walls, windows, and light fixtures. If you can, take pictures of anything on the premises that is damaged, hazardous or is in need of repair.
Don’t be afraid to report anything that is in poor condition to your landlord before moving in.
Find a Compatible Roommate
If your plan is to save on rent by sharing a house or apartment with one or more people, don’t underestimate the search for a roommate. It is crucial to find a good match to ensure a positive living environment.
These days, many colleges and universities offer off-campus roommate search tools that you can use to find and contact other incoming students in your area. Alternatively, you can use social media groups to network with other students from your college or university that may also be looking for roommates.
College Moving Made E-Z
If you are a student, the thought of moving off-campus away from your parents or school’s dormitories may be intimidating. There is a lot to consider, and with a new semester approaching you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed by it all.
Don’t worry! E-Z Move is here for you. We’ll take care of all the hard stuff so you that you can focus on this new chapter of your life. Give us a call today at (520) 808-0347 and receive a free quote on your next college move!
