Category: Blog

So you’re a student and you’ve decided to get off campus housing for students. You’re one of 87% of students who live off campus, according to a 2016 New York Times article. Perhaps you had been living on-campus and decided it was time for a change, or perhaps you weighed the housing options and you’ll be moving in for the first time. Either way, you want to make sure you have a good experience. It’s one thing to shop for apartments for rent and move-in, but another to live in them for the school year. Here are some things to keep in mind to make sure you have a great time.

Surround Yourself With Friends

If it’s not too late, ask around to see if any of your friends want to room with you. Having roommates takes a burden off of paying in full for apartments for rent, and you can benefit from this too. Additionally, having your friends close will help you have a better experience. They’ll prevent you from getting lonely or homesick and in general offer up a fun time. Ensure that you know your potential roommates well and don’t ask just anybody, otherwise, the purpose might be defeated. Sometimes living with someone is a different experience than just hanging out with them, so keep that in mind.

Don’t Overdo It

There are a lot of things you could end up overdoing. From trying to move too many things into your apartment, to going to too many parties because you feel you want the college experience. Remember that apartments for rent are not the same size as a full house, so pack accordingly and think about what you most need and what you’ll most use. This will save you time later and prevent your living space from being overcrowded. Also, keep in mind that you don’t need to go to every party you get invited to. If you get burned out, you’ll have a worse time than if you pick and choose where you most want to go. You can gain the college experience from many aspects of your school year, not just the parties or the housing, so take your time and soak everything in.

Balance Your School Life

Don’t forget the number one reason why you’re here: to get an education. However you decide to live your life and spend your time, it’s important to save time for school work and studying. You might be tempted to blow off an assignment here or there, but it’s not worth it. Doing your best and getting good grades will set you up for the rest of your life. You might regret not taking that hour to go out with friends, but your 30-year old self will be grateful for it. If you balance both your school and your personal lives, you shouldn’t have problems with either.

Remember to keep these things in mind when you move into your off campus housing. Find friends to move in with you, don’t overpack, and balance your time to have the best possible experience. If you do these things, you’re sure to have a great time, as well as a great year.

In the United States, someone rents a new unit every 80 seconds. Also, a new tenant gets into a new apartment every half a minute. Some of these tenants are students. If you are a student and feel like you are ready for off campus housing for students, there are a few things to consider. Here are some common signs that you are ready for off-campus life.

You Want to Live With Your Friends

If you stay in a dorm room, chances are your friends will not stay close to you. They might even be in a different building. However, if you stay in an apartment, you can live with some of your friends. Depending on your arrangement, you might even pay for off campus housing for students with your friends and become roommates. This way, you and your friends will not be assigned random rooms. Off campus housing for students is also ideal if you want to stay with a significant other.

You Want a Pet

There are some dorm rooms that will allow you to have a small pet. For instance, most will not have a problem if you decide to keep a hamster. However, if you want to have a pet dog, you might have problems keeping it in a dorm room. If you feel like it’s time to have a bigger pet, then you might need to consider off campus housing for students. If you have your own pet-friendly apartment, then you can get to keep your pet without any problems.

You Want More Independence

Most dorms tend to have a lot of rules and restrictions. If you are tired of living in such a controlling environment, then it might be a sign that you are ready for off campus housing for students. The next step would be to find a nice place and move out. When you have your own apartment, you can set your own rules and enjoy your space as you should.

You Are Ready for More Responsibility

This is another sign that you are ready for off campus housing for students. When you are staying in a dorm, most of your responsibilities will be taken care of. However, when you start feeling like you want more control over your life, it might be time to leave the dorm room and have your own place where you can take care of things on your own.

These are some of the signs that you are ready to start staying off campus. From living with friends, to getting a pet, to wanting space for yourself, living the way you want is not out of reach. Once you have made the decision, make sure you find a safe and nice place to live and study.

Approximately 33% of renters move each year. Some of them move because they realize that they made the wrong apartment choice. If you feel like you are in the wrong apartment and you want to move, it’s important to find the right size apartment for yourself so that you don’t keep moving. Here are some tips for finding the best apartment for yourself.

Consider Functionality

There is a lot more to consider when looking at apartments for rent than just finding something that fits your belongings. For you to find the right size apartment, you need to think about the functionality. The most common apartments for rent are studios, one-bedroom, and two bedrooms. You can look at these in terms of square footage as well. Studio apartments will typically be about 300 square feet to 1,000 square feet.

You can ask yourself the following questions when it comes to size and functionality.

• How many people will live here now and in the future?
• Are you going to be living alone for a long while?
• Are you in a relationship and will someone move in with you in the future?
• For families, are you going to have children in the near future?

Depending on whether you have a family or not, you can choose a studio apartment, a single bedroom, or two bedroomed apartment. The general idea is to find something that will fit you and your family’s needs well unless you are staying alone.

Check to See if Your Furniture Will Fit

Another thing to consider when looking for the right size apartment is to check whether your furniture will fit. You can go and view the apartment when it’s still empty and have a mental image of where you will put things. If you see that you won’t be able to fit everything properly, then you must continue looking at more apartments for rent until you find something that will fit everything perfectly.

Will You Be Renting it Long-Term?

You won’t always be looking for an apartment for a long-term stay. Sometimes you just want something temporary before you move into your house. If you are in such a situation, then you must look for something that will be comfortable enough until you move out. If you are building a house or buying one, you will also want to get something small so that you can save money and invest it in something more permanent.

Finding the right size apartment is not difficult if you follow some of the tips above. Another thing you must also consider when looking at apartments for rent is cost. Make sure you get an apartment that won’t derail your budget. With these tips in mind, you will be sure to find the perfect space for your needs.

Looking for the perfect off campus housing? You’re not alone. About 87% of students live in off campus housing according to a New York Times article published in 2016. For anyone attending school and living off campus, location is the most important thing when apartment hunting. Here’s why.

Transportation

There may be many beautiful apartments available, but with one catch — they’re too out of the way, and getting to classes becomes a hassle. Imagine getting to work tired because of a lengthy commute and then having to do it again at the end of the day. This can even end up affecting your concentration in class and your lifestyle.

Ideally, you’ll want somewhere that only requires taking one bus and a relatively short journey. Living in an area where you can easily get to class and where you can get around easily can cut down plenty of time for you, which is an important factor if you want an efficient schedule.

Amenities

As a student, you’ll also want a vibrant social life to help you relax in between study hours. That means you’ll probably prefer somewhere with a lot of cafes, restaurants, and other local hotspots where you can hang out with friends.

So, when apartment hunting, it’s worth it to explore the area to find out if the neighborhood vibes are on point. It’s best to explore the area both during the day and night to get the full picture of what the whole neighborhood is like. While you’re out and about, be sure to search for great amenities. Also, figure out if you would want to live in a noisy area, such as a place where there’s a nightclub.

Lifestyle Adaptation

Overall, finding the right location for off campus housing can determine how your lifestyle ends up looking. In most instances, you’ll likely not want to move to a location that requires you to alter your lifestyle too drastically. For instance, if you’re an extremely social person, you may not fit well in a quiet neighborhood where there’s little to do.

As you can see, the area where you find your off campus housing can make or break your student experience. However, finding the perfect apartment that suits your lifestyle and needs doesn’t have to be a hassle. You can enlist the services of a reputable real estate company to help you with your apartment hunting, so you can get the best experience in between classes.

Finding the perfect apartment shouldn’t be a hit and miss if you know what to look for. Fortunately, we have rounded up the top factors to consider when hunting for an apartment that’s right for you. Let’s get started.

Pricing

Pricing is an important factor to all renters, especially those who are starting out. The Rental Protection Agency says that about 40.6% of renters in the U.S. are those between the ages of 15 and 34. If you’re part of this age group, you’re probably living on a budget and want an apartment that’s decent and affordable. Therefore, it pays to do your research and find out the cost of apartments in the area you’re looking at. From there, you should consider whether to look elsewhere, find roommates, or negotiate the price.

Overall Conditions

It’s normal for property owners to post beautiful pictures of their apartments online. However, in some cases, the reality may be different. Before you pay rent or make a deposit, it’s up to you to arrange a viewing so you can see everything up close. During your inspection, look out for common problem areas, such as leaky faucets, bug and rodent infestations, broken AC, damaged roof, broken stuff, and mold. Talk to the landlord or property manager to see how they plan to deal with the problem and make it clear you’ll only move in after the problem is fixed.

The Landlord/Property Manager

Your renting experience is always a smooth and pleasant one if you have a great landlord. Besides viewing the apartment, be sure to meet the landlord in person to get a feel of what they’re like. If there are already other tenants living there, if possible, ask them what the landlord is like. Ideally, you want a landlord with good ethics, who respects boundaries, and who is reliable when emergencies occur.

The Neighborhood

Your apartment may seem perfect for you, but if it’s in the wrong kind of neighborhood, then this may be a problem. For instance, if there’s a high crime rate, it’s best to eye other apartments to protect your safety. You should also investigate neighborhood factors such as whether there’s enough parking or access to amenities such as shops, gyms, and a laundromat.

Browsing apartments in search of a place to live can be time-consuming and a hassle, but it pays off once you find the perfect one. Keep the above factors in your mind during your search, and good luck!

Most pet owners do not view their pets as just animals they keep but valued family members. As such, it is essential when looking for new housing that you find something that’s pet friendly. However, it is important to note not all houses that allow pets are pet friendly.

An estimated 33% of renters move each year due to several different reasons. Some of those are pet owners looking for pet-friendly housing. In this article, we will look at what to look for in pet-friendly accommodation.

Located Near Basic Pet Amenities

Pet-friendly housing must be located near an area where you can take your pet to relieve himself. There are apartment buildings with a pet waste station and trash receptacle that is frequently emptied to control odors. You can also check whether there is a drinking fountain for pets. Apart from having the amenities, there should be proper signage pointing you to the relief area to quickly locate it.

Located Near an Animal Park

There are off campus student apartments located close to animal parks where you can take your pet for exercise. If there are none in the area where you’re looking, you can also consider something that has a facility for pets to play and exercise.

Proximity to a Veterinary Hospital

Your pet will fall sick at one point or the other, and you will have to take it to the veterinary doctor. Therefore it is essential to ensure that the accommodation you pick is close to a veterinary clinic or hospital.

Enough Space for You and Your Pet

When you live with a pet, you must ensure that the accommodation you pick has enough space for you and your pet. This especially applies if you want off campus student apartments. For instance, it is not good to get a tiny room when you have a dog. The dog will need ample space to run around and exercise.

Roommate or No Roommate?

When looking for accommodation in off campus student apartments, and you plan to move in with a roommate, you must first ensure that the roommate is okay with you moving in with your pet. Some people prefer not to live with animals. Apart from that, they may also be allergic to your pet. For instance, some people are allergic to cat fur.

Any Allergens in Proximity?

If you and your pet are looking for a place to stay, you must make sure you don’t move to an area with many allergens that can affect your pet.

Be sure to do plenty of research about prospective new housing facilities on their regulations when it comes to finding pet friendly housing.

In 2017, more than 11 million individuals were renting an apartment in the United States. But the pandemic is transforming the commercial real estate sector in many different ways. In this article, we explore the trends to watch out for in the coming years.

Changes in Building and Construction

After the pandemic, property managers have been looking for solutions to manage costs. Before, property prices for building new apartments were high. Those expenses have since become unsustainable for investors.

Additionally, property managers have to address crowding in apartments. Congestion is forcing tenants to move to remote locations to find housing options with more conducive spaces.

Enhancing the Tenant’s Experience

One of the factors influencing the changes in new apartment construction is to improve the tenant’s experience. The challenges of the pandemic are prompting property managers to improve engagement with tenants.

To enhance the tenant’s experience, managers have to change how they handle incidences. Refining communications is essential to maintaining good relations with customers. That may involve the application of business tools to boost engagement and the client’s experience.

The Application of Digital Tools

In the past, managers were utilizing different software applications for running the business. Some of the records would be in the form of spreadsheets, and the rest in hard copy. In those circumstances, making software updates and retrieving information could be cumbersome.

Cloud solutions can be valuable for both tenants and property owners. Individuals looking for rentals can make an application conveniently online. Such options make it easier for managers to get clients in the climate of the pandemic.

Integrating Smart Building Features

A smart building has a network of devices that link to the water pump, HVAC unit, fire alarms, and lighting fixtures. Advanced digital features reduce the repetitive task of checking on the various systems. Therefore, automation cuts down expenses for owners seeking to rent an apartment.

Utilization of Business Intelligence

While cloud solutions make it easier to update and retrieve information, business intelligence provides the bigger picture. It refers to the collection, analysis, and application of data to boost business operations.

Business Intelligence (BI) allows managers to gain insights into real estate administration without complex configurations. The application of BI in property management is primarily for financial and tax processing.

Significant Shifts in Demographics

Real estate experts are anticipating a demographic shift in the future. From a market dominated by millennials, the focus is moving towards generation Z. They are young tenants who grew up with technology and are likely to be underemployed.

Also known as Zoomers, they are receptive to novel concepts when looking for a new apartment. Some statistics suggest that more than 90% are looking to buy a house in the future. That means property managers have to rethink their offering to appeal to Generation Z.

The real estate market is constantly changing, ushering in exciting housing concepts for a younger market. However, it is safe to say that technology will play a significant role in shaping the sector. Managers can take advantage of those tools to gain a competitive advantage.

Making the big move from college dorm to off-campus housing is among the most significant decisions most students make. After finding the perfect apartment that suits student housing and reviewing the lease, the next challenging step is to make your move as comfortable and cost-friendly as it can get.

Transitioning from dorm life to off-campus housing isn’t always easy. It requires a well-thought plan and thorough preparation. However, this doesn’t mean that it has to be a nerve-wracking move. A new unit is rented every 80 seconds in the US, and a new renter moves in their belongings to an apartment every 30 seconds. Therefore, you should remember you are not alone as long as you make calculated moves. Read on to learn some of the things that can make your off-campus move easier.

1. Get Yourself a Roommate

One of the advantages of moving to off-campus housing is that you can choose who you want to share your apartment with, and at the same time, save lots of money.

Having a roommate means that you get someone with whom you can split bills. Ensure that you both plan on how much you’ll be contributing to avoid conflicts later on. Also, discussing how much you can raise before the move will ensure that you both get into a manageable apartment.

2. Have a Budget in Place

This being your first move, there might be some things that you may not be anticipating. An off-campus move requires a lot of new expenses. From new furniture to utilities, not to mention you’ll be buying your grocery. Therefore, ensure that you create a budget that enables you to live with ease.

3. Consider Second-Hand Shops

Buying everything at once for your move is very expensive — therefore, finding a good bargain shop might come in handy. A lot of second-hand furniture is always in mint condition. Save money by buying these used items but be very careful of furniture that has bugs.

4. Learn to Do Things by Yourself

Now that you’ll be living off-campus and there will be no janitors or cafeterias, it’s advisable to learn to do your grocery shopping and clean. Avoid eating out to save on cash.

Living off-campus is one of the life-changing decisions you will ever make. You learn how to manage your money and at the same time get to enjoy freedom away from your parents or dorm administrations.

Dorm rooms can feel confining. As a result, many college students would rather live off-campus because of the freedom and independence it comes with. But renting off-campus can be a tricky affair.

It is estimated that 33% of renters move each year largely due to unmet expectations. Thus, before you move into Newark DE rentals, here are questions you should ask your landlord before signing the lease.

What’s the Rent Amount?

The first thing you should ask is the rent amount. By asking about the cost, you’ll get the chance to negotiate the amount with the landlord. Additionally, you’ll learn more about whether there are any penalties for late rent or pet fees.

What’s Included in the Rent?

Living in an off-campus apartment can be exciting. Until you get a bill you hadn’t anticipated. In some student rental units, utilities such as gas, electricity, cable, and internet aren’t included in the rent. Thus, before you sign a lease, ask your property manager what’s included in the rent so that you’re not hit by unexpected bills.

What’s the Transportation Situation?

Moving into an apartment for rent and finding out there’s no convenient transportation to campus can be a nightmare. If you use public transportation or the university shuttle, find out whether the ride times are convenient with your class schedule.

Is There Parking Available?

If you are driving yourself to campus, find out about the parking situation. While some student rentals include parking in the fees, others don’t. If your apartment falls in the latter category, finding out about the parking cost will prevent you from the surprise cost later. Additionally, you should find out whether the parking is secure. In some student rentals, there are dedicated parking lots for residents, while in others, there is just street parking. Finally, inquire about visitor parking as well, when family and friends visit.

Are Visitors Allowed to Stay Overnight?

Dorm rooms tend to have strict rules regarding visitors. Off-campus apartments tend to be less strict. However, before you move into Newark DE rentals, ask about the visitor’s policy. Like dorms, some student rentals have fairly strict overnight guest policies. Therefore, ask about it to avoid disappointment later on.

Are Co-Signers Necessary?

Some landlords may need co-signers to get a glimpse of your rental history. But, if you’re renting for the first time, you won’t have any. Therefore, you should ask whether co-signers are necessary so you can tag along your parents to sign the lease with you.

What are the Amenities?

If you decide to spend more to live in an off-campus apartment, you’ll want certain benefits. Inquire about them before you move into the apartment. Amenities such as a pool, game room, fitness center, and laundry room can make your stay more pleasurable. As a rule of thumb, the more you pay, the more you should get.

What’s the Neighborhood Like?

Neighborhoods close to campus tend to be more student-centric, while those far away are usually more family-friendly. If you’re looking for a quiet environment conducive to studying, you’ll want to look for student housing in the latter.

These are just some of the questions you should ask your property manager before you sign the dotted line. But if other questions come to mind, do not hesitate to let your property manager know your concerns to avoid disappointment or surprise later on. If you’re looking for Newark DE rentals, contact us. We’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you find the right apartment for you.

College is coming up for high school graduates, and there are so many plans that have to be made if they get accepted. They are going to need school supplies, money to get through school, and a place to live. Planning your college years will take plenty of work. However, it does not have to be a nightmare. There are many tricks and tips to help with college life. Let’s start with looking for a place to live. Your best bet would be to try an off campus apartment. According to a New York Times article from 2016, 87% of students live off campus, and it is easy to understand why after looking at the benefits. Here are five reasons that you are better off living off-campus.

More Freedom

Dorms in general can feel like a sleep-away camp, but there are strict rules that you have to follow at times. There might be a time to turn off the lights and go to sleep. There are rules with having people stay over for the night. Plus, there are rules for what you can bring to the dorm. With an off campus apartment, you are granted a little more freedom with your living space. Sure, there are some rules that you will still have to follow, but living off-campus isn’t as strict as living in a dorm.

More Space

In the past, dorms have been small. Some of them are smaller than a hallway bathroom. It just depends on how the building is built. This isn’t good if you have large furniture moving in with you. With an apartment, you will have more space to move around in. It helps that apartments are usually empty when people first move in. When you live in an off campus apartment, you will be able to move in any large furniture that you could be bringing with you.

Independence

You are about to enter your 20s, so it is about time for you to get used to living on your own. An off campus apartment can help you achieve this. You will get the feeling of living on your own for the first time. You will have to be in charge of paying your bills, calling for maintenance, and shopping for your basic needs. It may be challenging at first, but you will find it rewarding when you get used to it.

Saving the Money

Let’s face it, college alone will eat up most of your money. Your temporary place of living should not be part of the reason that you go into debt. Roommates can help with paying rent. You can also keep track of how much your rent and utilities are. Learning how to cook can also help you save on a meal plan and eating out.

Privacy

This one is a must. In an off campus apartment, you get your own room and bathroom. You don’t have to have a roommate in your room. Plus when you are having out for the day, you can lock your door with your own key. The only things that you will have to share are the kitchen, public rooms, and the washer and dryer. Having your own room will cut down on the stress of college life.