For those needing to remotely search for an apartment, many landlords have adjusted operations so that potential tenants can have an effective remote search. Please review the apartment search tips below. These tips are also available on our Neighborhood C.A.R.E. website.
Take time to understand your own needs. Consider what is most important to you in an off-campus apartment. This could include location, price, various amenities/features, number of roommates, noise, parking availability, and transportation needs. Ensure that you know what is included in the price of rent and what is not. Many private apartments/landlords may not have amenities like parking, internet, TV/cable, electricity, water, waste management, laundry, etc. built into the price of rent. It is important to ask any potential landlord what is or is not included in the price of rent. Additionally, ensure that what is provided is specifically stated in the lease. Ask for a video tour of the apartment unit. This could be done live over a video call or be filmed in advance. A video tour helps you better understand the layout of the apartment unit and how you would utilize it. A live video call gives you the opportunity to ask specific questions about the unit, inspect specific amenities/appliances, or examine other things that are important to you as if you were there. Do not feel the need to sign a lease right away. Leases are legally binding documents that ensure you are responsible for the agreed to financial obligations. They are generally difficult to terminate, so it is important to know what you are agreeing to and to be comfortable with all of the terms. After viewing an apartment you are interested in, ask for a copy of a blank lease so that you can review it. Be sure to ask clarifying questions to the landlord if there is anything you do not understand. If you feel it is needed, it is also okay to consult legal counsel before you sign.