It’s only a month into classes, but students are already renewing leases and searching for places to live next year.
Some say it’s easy to get caught up in the lease-signing key-finding frenzy, which can create a bit of pressure.
“I felt like if I didn’t sign [a lease] right away, I wouldn’t have a place to live off-campus,” junior civil engineering major Angela Linley said.
To help relieve some of that pressure, here is a guide on what to consider when looking for an off-campus home.
Research, research and more research
Consider the upfront rent as well as utilities. Common utilities include electric, water, waste disposal, sewer, cable and internet. Keep in mind that electric is often the most expensive utility. Also consider other expenses, such as the prices of groceries and kitchen supplies.
“Have a budget,” vice president of Student Affairs, Nathan Thomas said. “When living off campus, the expenses come in many different forms; especially when to the one cost of living in residence halls. Make sure you know all the expenses of living off campus and aren’t surprised when big bills start coming in.”
Although typical off-campus choices tend to be St. James, Main Street Commons or Ideal Rentals, there are other housing options.
“Do a lot of research on different places, not just the big names,” Linley said.
Comparing multiple places can help find the best deals.
Other factors to keep in mind are if the appliances are new or outdated and if the house is large and drafty, factors that will add to the electric bill.
Make a list of pros and cons for each possibility and talk it over with potential roommates. Also consider its distance from campus.
Check how many parking spots are available and whether some roommates will have to find alternate parking. Decide if a house or apartment is better for everyone’s needs, and look into utilities included in the packages.
Tour the unit
Schedule a tour and try to bring someone who knows a little about apartment searching. Take plenty of pictures to look over later, and don’t leave any corner uninvestigated.
If there is a problem, speak up, and ask the landlord if the defect will be resolved.
Don’t sign the lease if code violations still exist. Some code violations include leaking roofs, broken windows, holes or rotting boards in the exterior walls/foundation and improperly working exterior locks. Get the landlord to fix any problems before moving in.
Before signing a lease
Make sure to thoroughly read through the lease and understand the payment responsibilities of each person. Read the regulations on pets and find out the tenant and landlord responsibilities.
Thomas said he advised students to establish some general rules of the house/apartment between roommates before signing.
“Iron out some of the little details (cleanliness, when people will be over, etc.) before signing a lease,” Thomas said. “Some of these may ultimately be ‘deal breakers’ and once the lease is signed it is very, very difficult to get out of the living arrangement.”
Moving in
Inspect your apartment or house before moving in. A self-inspection checklist should be provided by your landlord. Fill it out and write down any pre-existing defects in the apartment, so you aren’t responsible for them at the end of your lease. This signed inspection is required by the city of Peoria.
Introduce yourself to the neighbors; this way they are more likely to be understanding if there is a problem. Keep your yard clean of trash or you will be fined and try to be courteous; not everyone is a college student or interested in staying up all night.
Slow down, and do the research; there’s more time than you think.
