When it’s
your first time renting, you are unaware of common traps and more likely to
make mistakes. Worse still, landlords know this and may try to take advantage
of you. By becoming informed before setting foot inside any student rentals in
Peterborough, students can ensure they choose great housing.
1.
Only
Looking Online
It is true
that you can now find everything you need online — and that includes apartments
for rent. However, if you only consider online listings, you may miss out on
some excellent options. Ask your school for recommendations or check with a
broker to discover rentals that other students may be missing.
2.
Searching
Too Late (or Too Early)
You may end
up spending more if you start your search too late. As the start of the
semester nears, landlords know that your options are becoming limited and they
can drive up prices. To make matters worse, more affordable units will have
already been snapped up by savvier students.
On the flip
side, starting to search too early is also problematic. Landlords will likely
be unwilling to hold the apartment for you for more than a month. Usually, you
should expect to start the lease on the first day of the following month. For
this reason, the ideal time to search is between 24 and 30 days before you want
the apartment.
3.
Moving In
Right Before School
The higher
demand for apartments right before school starts can also drive up prices. If
you are able to move in slightly sooner, you may end up saving money. Plus,
moving in a month or so early will allow you to settle into your home and start
looking for a part-time job in the area.
4.
Being
Inflexible
By all means
only rent an apartment you find comfortable. If the place is dirty, damaged, or
feels unsafe, you should look elsewhere. However, some students have
expectations that are too high, especially considering how much they can afford.
Think about what you actually need — and what you could live without.
Take the
effort out of your search by choosing to live in off-campus student housing in Peterborough.
Students have the option of Severn Court. Prices are affordable and you can
pick a suite size according to your budget. Plus, there is no need to worry
about sacrificing any amenities you want — everything you need is onsite,
including high-speed Internet, laundry facilities, and security staff.
