Finding The Right Place
In addition to the resources provided, don't be shy -- start with the obvious --word-of-mouth. Ask friends or coworkers for ideas on where to look for an apartment. Professional resources include real estate agents or apartment-locating services. The usual charge for this service is the equivalent of one month's rent, which is paid by either you or your new landlord. Find out who is responsible, and get it in writing. Save time and money, and rule out unacceptable apartments if you keep in mind that some ads are just come-ons. When you call about an ad, insist that the landlord define terms you don't understand and explain the flowery adjectives. For example, "cute" may mean tiny, and "prestigious" can be another word for expensive.
Be familiar with the differences between building types and their costs
There are several types of housing available to students in the area of the University: rooms in private homes, condos, houses and apartments.
ROOMS IN PRIVATE HOMES are usually the most economical form of housing. Prices may range from $350 for a small room, with no kitchen privileges to $500 for a large room with a private entrance, bath and kitchen privileges. In lieu of rent, some owners offer rooms in exchange for work around the house, baby-sitting, or for providing transportation to and from the doctor's office and supermarket.
HOUSES are rented out by some homeowners to groups of four students or more. The rent may vary from $1200 to $2200per month (plus utilities). Landlords usually require the first and last month's rent, plus a security deposit. This can add up to quite a bit of money. However, living in a house does have advantages. For example, a student can do his/her own cooking. Also, some houses are within walking or biking distance to the University; thereby saving transportation costs.
APARTMENTS AND CONDOS are the most common type of rental available to our students. As with houses you will be required to pay the first and last month's rent and a security deposit. Most often these rentals are unfurnished. Depending on what kind of apartment you choose and how many people share it as well as the location, the cost of such of rental may vary as follows:
- Single - This is one room larger than a bachelor, with a separate kitchen and bath, Rent $770+
- One Bedroom - This consists of a separate living room, kitchen, bedroom and bath. Rent $900+
- Multiple Bedrooms - Rent begins at $940 for a two-bedroom up to $1400+
Remember that where you live is just as important as the place you live in. Consider these factors about The Neighborhood as you search for a place.
- Is this apartment near supermarkets, convenience stores, laundry facilities, banking facilities, public transportation stops, medical facilities, religious communities/places of worship that interest me, etc!
- How long is travel to campus? What time will bus start/stop running?
- Is there an excess of noise (traffic, tourists, trains, sirens, bars, etc)?