Leasing 101: Educational Videos
Getting Started: Housing Search Basics
- Search the Housing listings and filter by bedrooms, price, neighborhood, and more.
- Sign up for an account to save listings you may be interested in and contact properties.
- Always tour the property if possible before signing a lease. If you aren't in the area, ask if the landlord provides virtual tours.
- Be on the lookout for scams.
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.
Luckily for renters, scams have plenty of tells. Rental scams are easy to spot once you know what you’re looking for. And once you know what you’re looking for, you can avoid losing a lot of time and money.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.