Living off-campus gives international students more freedom, privacy, and sometimes lower costs compared to dorms. However, finding and managing off-campus housing comes with challenges. Here are ten essential tips to help you secure safe and affordable off-campus housing while avoiding common pitfalls.
The First Three:
Start Your Housing Search Early
- Good apartments are rented quickly, so begin your search at least two to three months before your move-in date.
- Check university off-campus housing resources for verified listings.
- Use websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, Rent.com, and Craigslist.
- Join local Facebook housing groups for your university community.
Set a Realistic Budget
Renting off-campus comes with additional costs beyond just rent. Consider:
- Rent: Varies by city—$500/month in smaller towns, up to $2,000+ in big cities.
- Utilities: Electricity, water, internet (usually $100-$200/month).
- Security deposit: Typically one to two months’ rent upfront.
- Transportation: Costs if you need a car or public transit.
- Furniture: Some apartments are unfurnished, so factor in furniture costs.
Understand Leasing Agreement
A lease is a legally binding contract, so read it carefully before signing. Pay attention to:
- Lease length: Most are 12 months, but some offer shorter or flexible leases.
- Breaking the lease: Check penalties if you leave early.
- Rent increases: Some leases allow landlords to raise rent after a set period.
- Security deposit refund: Understand the terms to get your deposit back.
4. Choose a Safe and Convenient Location
- Where you live affects your safety, commute, and daily expenses.
- Look for places close to campus or with easy public transportation access.
- Use crime map websites like SpotCrime or NeighborhoodScout to check safety.
- Consider proximity to grocery stores, banks, hospitals, and international markets.
5. Find Reliable Roommates (If Needed)
- Sharing an apartment reduces rent and bills, but choose wisely.
- Find roommates through university housing boards, Facebook groups, or roommate-matching websites.
- Discuss expectations for cleaning, noise, bills, and guests.
- Sign a roommate agreement to avoid disputes later.
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