College is
full of firsts, which can include moving away from home and finding your first
rental. While moving on campus can be a big step, moving off campus can be an
even bigger step. Plus, for many, it’s considered the first step towards
adulthood. However, off-campus living can be rife with new information and
experiences. Foresight of new information and experiences can help make your
off-campus life successful. And there are a few tips that can help you gain
this foresight, including: understanding lease contracts, looking for safety, and
searching in the right area.
Understand Lease Contracts
For new
renters (and some experienced ones), little is more confusing than the lease
contract. However, little is more important than reading and understanding this
contract. Leases can be confusing, but there are some basic elements they all
contain. Identifying these basic elements is the key to understanding the
entire lease. This can also make the lease easier to read. When going over the
contract, just look for the lines that explain:
·
Maintenance
rules, schedules, and guidelines
·
Duration
of the lease
·
Penalties
for breaking the lease, as well as possible violations
·
Additional
fees you may incur
·
The
rental rate, payment due date, fees for late payments, payment options, and
where and how the rent should be paid
·
Contact
information for the landlord and/or property manager, as well as communication
guidelines
·
Guidelines
for obtaining roommates, having overnight guests, and subletting
·
Regulations
for parking, including fees associated with parking or violating these
regulations
·
Guidelines
for altering the rental’s appearance (i.e. painting, changing window coverings,
etc.)
·
Information
about what your deposit covers, how it can be recouped, and what violations
could lead to revocation
·
Rules
and fees associated with pets
·
The
grounds for eviction and how the eviction process works
This may
seem like a long list, but each of these elements are important and can prevent
you from experiencing rental hardships. However, if you're searching for apartments
for rent, Peterborough offers Severn Court Student Residence, where you
will receive the quality housing and most comprehensive lease out there.
Look for Safety
Surprisingly
(or unsurprisingly), apartment safety is major selling point for many property
managers. It should also be a major concern for all renters, especially new
renters. Before signing a lease, make sure your apartment or room is in a safe
neighborhood and offers standard, high-quality safety features. Some safety
features to look for, include: fire extinguishers and/or sprinklers, smoke and
carbon monoxide detectors, designated fire routes or exits, basic security
(e.g. security officers, cameras, alarms, security doors or gates, a secure
lock or intercom system), functioning locks on all doors and windows, and basic
safety procedures. Additionally, ask to have the door locks changed before
moving in. And ensure your apartment is free of potential hazards, as well as
safe inside and out. Finally, any rooms to rent
Peterborough offers should also be rodent, insect, and mold-free.
Search in the Right Area
Location
matters, especially when you’re searching for student housing. An off-campus
apartment should be as close to the university as possible. It should also be
close to public transit and amenities, like grocery stores, banks, restaurants,
laundromats, etc. But student housing offered by places
like Severn Court Student Residence offer plenty of ‘renter-exclusive’
amenities. However, it’s imperative to find the right housing in the right
location. It could help keep you connected to university life, reduce commute
time, provide reasonable rental rates, and foster independence.
