So you’ve made the decision to live in off-campus college apartments. Now what?
From choosing the right place to understanding why you should get renters insurance, these tips will help you live a happy and budget-friendly life off campus.
Make a Budget
Learning how to create a budget is especially important if you are living off campus in college apartments. Compared to the prepaid meal plans and Wi-Fi that typically come with dorm life, off-campus residents have other line items to consider – including monthly bills for utilities, Internet, and renters insurance to protect your property in case of fire, water damage or burglary. Be prepared by familiarizing yourself with recurring costs and upfront expenses of off-campus college apartments.
Don’t forget to include:
Get the details
Once you find a place you like, you’ll be tempted to fast-forward through the paperwork and get the keys immediately, especially if the apartment complex has a sparkling pool or great walk-in closets. Don’t fall victim to a tricky lease or get stuck with an unresponsive landlord. Before you sign on the dotted line, read reviews online, ask the right questions, and make sure you’re comfortable with all terms and conditions.
Find out about:
See it in person
Before signing a lease, ask to check out the actual unit you will be renting. There’s no guarantee that the apartment you rent will have the same features or be in the same condition as the one you saw on your tour. Most reputable landlords or rental companies will ask you to sign off on the condition of the apartment and should address any issues before you move in.
Be sure to:
Moving into a home off campus is exciting. By checking off these points, you’ll be well on your way to making it a successful and budget-friendly move.
