Renting an apartment off-campus can be exciting, allowing you to enjoy flexibility regarding where and who you live with. While trying to avoid dorm life, most students tend to make rookie mistakes that cost them dearly. Here are four common pitfalls to avoid when you are deciding on Delaware student housing.
1. Falling in Love Too Fast
The US Census Bureau says that 33% of renters move each year. Four out of five will go online to search for apartments for rent. Technology continues to revolutionize the rental experience, with students identifying and closing deals for the spaces through online listings.
While you may fall in love with the plenty of pictures flashed on the site, you may never know what’s missing. Nothing kills the excitement of finally moving than discovering that the rooms look nothing like the photos posted. Before signing the rental agreement, make sure you visit the apartment in person. You can catch any deal-breakers before signing the lease.
2. Not Screening Roommates
It is always an excellent idea to find someone to live with when renting an apartment off-campus. You can share the rental cost as well as the various utility bills. However, you may need to be careful not to overlook the housemates you will share your space with.
Most students wrongfully assume that they will enjoy living with someone just because they are their friend. You may need to consider other factors, such as the desired level of cleanliness, sleeping schedules, and noise levels. Find roommates that are easier to get along with for the best rental experience.
3. Going Overboard on Your Budget
It can be tempting to look for luxurious student rental units. However, living off-campus tags along with the expensive realities of living in Newark, DE rentals. It is not advisable to take on student loans and credit card debts to sustain a lifestyle you can’t afford.
Find off-campus apartments that are within your budget range. You can determine this by picking your pre-tax income and diving with 40. This figure is the rental income that you may afford. Remember to factor in the rental deposit, pet-expenses, books, and utilities.
4. Not Reading the Fine Print
In a hurry to find student housing in Delaware, most renters tend to skim through the lease agreement. They sign the document without understanding what the landlord stipulates. You may not wish to be blindsided on an aspect just because you never read everything in the agreement.
There may be restrictions provided by landlords or property managers that you may need to be aware of—for example, in-door pets. You may need to ensure that you are renting an apartment with no breed/ weight restrictions that might leave your pet out in the cold.
Renting an apartment off-campus does not have to be hectic. Doing your due diligence may help you avoid these four common pitfalls during your search. For more information on finding the right rental units for students in Newark, DE, you can contact Lang Development Group. Our experts are waiting to hear from you.
