Things to Consider Before Moving Off Campus

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• For many college students, moving off campus
  is exciting yet frightening. No matter where
  youre moving to or from, the moving process can
  be stressful. Its even more stressful for
  college students and first-time renters. However,
  physically moving isnt the most stressful part
  of the process. Before the move, youll need to
  sort out all the fine details of renting. Below
  are four things you should consider before moving
  off campus.

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Apply at the Right Time

• When it comes to off-campus housing, applying
  at the right time means applying early. There
  will be competition for the best apartments or
  rooms for rent St. Catharines has to offer, so
  make sure you apply at the beginning of the first
  semester. The best apartment communities, such as
  Regent Student Living, will also see a myriad of
  applications, so be sure to get yours in first.
  Most importantly, apply at a time that feels
  right for you. If you dont feel ready to move
  off campus, then dont apply for the housing.

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Consider Your Rent and Utilities

• The notion of paying rent and other bills can
  be scary. However, if you rent an inclusive
  apartment, you wont have to worry about paying
  utilities. Remember that off-campus housing is
  usually inclusive, meaning your utility bills are
  included in your rent. On the other hand, if you
  have a roommate(s), ensure the rent and other
  bills are divided evenly.

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• Create a calendar that outlines when your
  rent or other bills are due, the amount due, and
  the amount each roommate will have to pay.
  Constant communication and cooperation will be
  the keys to your success.

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Get Help with the Lease

• Leases are long and complicated something
  that most people dont know how to read or
  interpret. So, youll need to get help
  interpreting your lease agreement. This help can
  come from your parents, a lawyer or realtor (if
  you can afford one) or friends who are past
  and/or current renters. If you cant find help,
  then ask questions before signing the lease. For
  example, ask questions about

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• When the rent is due and how the rent can be paid
• Repairs and maintenance procedures
• Fees for damage, parking and furniture
• Pet, noise and occupancy policies
• Security deposit policies and circumstances of
  forfeiture
• Procedures for moving in or out
• Fees for late rental payments

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Choose a Good Location

• No matter why or when youre moving, location
  is always a major consideration. Its especially
  important for university students who are moving
  off campus. Proximity to your school and the
  popularity of the area are two major components
  of choosing a location. Your apartment should be
  as close to your school as possible preferably
  in walking distance.

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• If affordability is key, search for an
  apartment in a non-popular area. Housing in
  popular areas is always more expensive. Local
  amenities are also important, so try to choose
  housing thats close to shops, supermarkets and
  more.