Transitioning From On-Campus to Off-Campus Housing

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Transitioning From On-Campus to Off-Campus Housing
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• For many college students, the choice to move
  off campus is simple. But, it may be a feat
  thats easier said than done. Although,
  off-campus apartment communities strive to make
  living on your own convenient, fun, and as simple
  as possible, transitioning from dorm life to
  apartment life isnt always supported or simple.
  However, there are some tips that can make
  renting and moving into your first apartment a
  good experience. Below are four of these tips.

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Search for Rentals Near Your School

• Most off campus housing is located within
  walking distance of their respective
  universities. To make the transition from
  on-campus to off-campus living, look for a
  housing thats within walking distance to your
  school. Moreover, make sure you choose student
  housing. Apartment buildings and communities that
  are designed for students are usually full of
  cool amenities and residential services. These
  amenities and services are designed to support
  your college and apartment life, while making
  them fun and convenient.

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• For example, study lounges and useful
  academic services can be found in nearly every
  student housing community. Communities such as
  Ezra-Bricker Apartments make it easy for you to
  find, and move into Laurier student housing.

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Gather Information About Bills and Fees

• Of course, youll have to pay rent and bills
  when you move off campus, but there are certain
  fees and bills you might not be aware of. For
  example, if you move into a furnished apartment
  (highly recommended), youll basically have to
  rent the existing furniture and pay fees if that
  furniture is damaged. Youll also have to pay for
  parking and utilities. Not to mention, renting an
  apartment requires a security deposit or a
  one-months rental fee.

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• To counteract all the fees you might incur,
  find an inclusive apartment (utilities or
  included in your rent) with free or reduced-fee
  parking and free wi-fi and satellite or cable TV.
  However, most student apartment buildings are
  inclusive and offer many free services. If youre
  unable to pay the rent and buy groceries and
  essentials, get a roommate.

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Use Social Media

• Social media is a great way to stay connected
  to your college community. Online housing pages
  can be found on almost every major social media
  website just look for the page that features
  your university. These housing pages are great
  places to find affordable housing or search for a
  roommate. They also offer loads of advice for
  living successfully off campus, resources for
  support (e.g. academic or financial services),
  affordable movers (if you need them)and reviews
  of off-campus student housing.

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Attend Information Sessions

• Off-campus information sessions can provide
  you with vital information for student housing
  and transitioning to off-campus living. They also
  give information about apartment locations
  specifically, the area around your school.
  Information sessions are held by student
  organizations or the university just check the
  student bulletin boards daily for session
  announcements.