Getting Started: Leasing 101
Housing Search Basics
Finding off-campus housing might seem daunting initially, but there are plenty of resources available to simplify the process. Start by prioritizing what matters most to you—like location, budget, and the number of roommates/bedrooms—and separate these into your must-haves versus nice-to-haves.
Let these priorities be your starting point as you begin filtering down your options in the housing search and reaching out to properties. Use tools such as this housing search checklist to track potential places, keeping your hunt organized and stress-free. Always visit the property before signing a lease. If you can't be there in person, ask the landlord if they offer virtual tours.
Additional Resources:
- How to Find an Apartment
- How Much Should I Spend on Rent?
- Best Boston Neighborhoods for College Students Based on T Stops and Rent Trends
- Guide for Finding a Fabulous Student Apartment
- Graduating from Student Housing to Your First Apartment: What You Can Expect
How to Avoid Scams
When you’re sifting through listing after listing months into your apartment search, you may be tempted to go for the post with the most-everything you’ve ever wanted in an apartment (dream location, every amenity imaginable, etc.) for hundreds of dollars under your budget. But unfortunately, when a rental seems too good to be true, it usually is.
However, rental scams can be easy to spot once you know what you’re looking for. Watch the video below and browse these real-life examples of rental scams to learn more.
Additional Resources:
- Don’t Get Catfished: How to Avoid Rental Scams
- What to Know About Online Leasing
- Here's How to Find Your Perfect Apartment Online
Renting Without Credit
The good news: no credit is better than bad credit. This video shares ways to be approved to lease an apartment before having established credit.
Additional Resources:
- How to Rent an Apartment with No Credit
- What Will Be Reviewed with My Rental Application?
- What to Do If Your Rental Application Is Denied
- Everything You Need to Know About Apartment Background Checks
- Renter Questions: Why Do I Need a Cosigner?
Leasing Lingo
Be sure to read your lease before signing! Watch the video below for helpful information on terms you might come across as your review your lease paperwork.
Additional Resources:
- How to Read an Apartment Lease
- Questions to Ask Before You Sign a Lease
- Lease Agreement Red Flags You Should Watch Out For
- How to Break a Lease
Roommates
Who you live with may be even more important than where you live, so it’s a good idea to think through the decision of whether to have roommates and who your roommates will be. This list of suggested questions to ask potential roommates is a good place to start.
Additional Resources:
- How to Rent with a Roommate
- How to Get Along with a Roommate
- Can You Remove a Roommate from Your Lease?
- How-To Guides: Drafting a Roommate Agreement
- Apartment Lease Options When Renting with Roommates
- How to Peacefully Resolve Roommate Issues
Pets
Living with a pet in college comes with its own set of challenges. It's important to consider whether you have the right schedule, resources, and environment for your furry friend before signing them onto your lease!
Additional Resources:
- Three Things to Consider When Adopting an Apartment Pet
- The Pitfalls of Sneaking Pets into Apartments
- How to Find a Pet-Friendly Apartment
- What Pet Owners Should Ask Before Signing a Lease
- Pet Fees, Pet Deposits, and Pet Rent
Being a Good Neighbor
Establishing a positive connection with your neighbors can go a long way. Communicating about visitors when needed and respecting quiet hours can help avoid those passive-aggressive notes on the door! Watch the video below for some helpful tips.
Additional Resources: