The Dark Side of Off Campus Living & How to Avoid It
Off campus living can be quite the experience for college students and is situation where they are truly “on their own.” Unfortunately, there are a lot of horror stories out there about renting, dealing with landlords, property issues, etc. It is important for students to understand that there are downsides to renting a place off campus but what is even more important is knowing how to handle these kinds of situations so that they can be either avoided altogether or increase the chances of a favorable outcome.
Don’t Forsake Location For Cheap Rent
When it comes to off campus housing, the nicer the neighborhood, the pricier it’s going to be to live there. Stanford University is one campus that is known for being surrounded by some of the more picturesque homes and apartment complexes. These areas also come with high rent.
Even if students can’t afford such plush surroundings, they shouldn’t feel like the only place they qualify for is the seedier part of town. Cheap rent is ideal but not at the expense of living in an apartment that is run down, dirty and in a neighborhood that might not be safe.
Planning a budget well in advance and being financially responsible is the best way to afford an apartment that is decent and not decrepit.
People Lie
It’s sad but true. People will often do whatever it takes to offload a rental property, including glossing over major factors or not fully informing prospective tenants about issues with the unit.
It isn’t uncommon for a rental property to “appear” great and, unfortunately, not all landlords follow the rules when it comes to ensuring the property is sound. Something simple as failing to get black mold testing could turn into a nightmare for student tenants if they find themselves facing this issue after the lease has already been signed. The same goes for any indication of bug infestations or rodent problems. If there’s even one sighting of droppings, it is a red flag that this is not a property worth putting rent money towards.
To prepare for touring a unit, students should have a checklist of the essential things to be on the lookout for that could indicate a less than stellar living environment. And don’t be afraid to speak up. Anything on the checklist students come across should be pointed out immediately to the landlord or whoever is showing the property. Make sure ask for documentation/certification of things like mold inspection or other test results as they relate to the structure itself. Never just take anyone’s word for it.
Landlords Are an Acquired Taste
Not all landlords are bad news. The easiest way to get on any landlord’s good side is to be open with communication, friendly and (most important) pay rent on time! Being on good terms with a landlord could make all the difference in the quality of assistance you receive from them when in need or making certain requests.