Keeping Student Housing Affordable

[AliciaAllmand]

Student housing can be one of the biggest challenges when getting ready to leave for school. Living on your own for the first time can be not what you thought it was.

Student housing is one of the most important elements to plan for when it comes to getting ready for school. If this is your first year or even if you are returning, where you live is a big factor in your overall success. You need the location to provide you with specific amenities but at the same time, you need a location that features an affordable cost. Can you find that type of option? You can if you know where to look.

Know What You Need

Before you even consider looking for student housing, it is very important to know what your needs are. This means focusing on factors such as size, location, and amenities included. Do you need high-speed Internet connectivity? Do you need the location to be within walking distance of the school or at least along a bus line? You may need the facility to be handicap accessible. Know your needs first.

Consider Looking for a Roommate

One way to reduce costs significantly is to find a house that you can share. Some facilities offer a roommate resource where you can post for and look for others to share your location with during the school year. You may even be able to use the facility’s staff to help you to find the right type of roommate for your needs. This can help to reduce the costs but it does reduce the overall privacy you have. Be sure to look for someone that you feel comfortable being with, too. You need someone that shares the same perspectives of college life as you do.

Leasing Affordably

Keep in mind that you can always negotiate a contract. Be sure your lease is specific and lists how much you need to pay and what months you need to do so. This provides ample opportunity for you to keep costs down. You may be able to reduce costs by offering to maintain the property and yard. You may be able to get a lower cost just by being a better credit risk, too. Having parents cosign the lease can also help to keep your costs low.

Student housing may or may not be covered by financial aid and school loans. In some cases, you may save money by paying on a month-to-month basis or all up front. However, you may also need to pay a security deposit. As you plan to go away to school this year, be smart about your apartment and living needs. Know what you need and what you want, and reduce your overall risk of not finding a place to live by searching early. In some cases, individuals book their homes away from home at the end of the previous school year. Do not put it off.

Apartment & Home Rentals/Leasing in Ann Arbor: http://allmandproperties.com

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