Before You Rent

Choosing Housing

With an overload of housing information available surrounding campus and online, the housing search can be overwhelming. Where to start? Before you begin the process, it’s best to narrow the search so you have a specific idea of what to look for. Be sure to ask yourself the following:

1. What kind of rental unit do you want to live in?

• Apartment complex (a one, two or three-bedroom apartment)
• Converted apartment in private home
• Room in private home
• Entire house

2. What are your transportation needs?

• Walking distance to TU
• On a MTA bus route
• Close to work or shopping
• Parking

3. What are your privacy needs?

• Private bedroom?
• Comfortable with sharing a room?
• Comfortable with sharing a bathroom?

4. What can you afford?

• One-bedroom apartments tend to be most expensive
• The closer to campus, the more expensive the rent is likely to be
• Calculate utilities and transportation costs when determining a budget

5. What about furniture?

• Furnished unit
• Unfurnished unit
• Rental furniture

6. How much legal security do you want?

Apartment complexes often require you to sign a 12-month lease. They may also require your parent to cosign your lease, particularly if you have no income.

Private homes may offer a shorter-term lease or no lease at all. However, it is advised to always have some sort of written agreement before renting any apartment or room.

7. Are pets allowed?

• Will you pay pet rent?

Selecting a Roommate

Whether you have already selected a roommate or are in the process of finding one, it is often helpful to discuss your mutual concerns. You can reduce the likelihood of disagreements by coming to some basic agreements about your living arrangements.

Questions to Ask a Potential Roommate

• How do you plan to pay for your housing?
• What noise level are you accustomed to?
• What furniture and appliances do you already have?
• Do you have guests who will be visiting often?
• How important is cleanliness to you?
• Are you comfortable with substances being used in your space?
• What is your schedule?
• How should bills be managed?