🧠 Off-Campus Housing Guides & Checklists
Everything you need to navigate your first rental with confidence.
From spotting scams to coordinating with roommates, these practical tools will help you make smart decisions and settle in smoothly.
🏠Apartment Search & Prep
Find the right place — and know what to look for before signing.
How to Inspect an Apartment
Not every listing shows you the full picture. Use this checklist to document the true condition of the unit — from water pressure and heating to outlets and windows. Track damage, take photos, and note when you set up utilities like internet, electric, gas, and trash. It's your security deposit's best friend.
When to Start Looking for Off-Campus Housing
Timing varies by school — and landlords often rely on students not knowing the game. Here's what to keep in mind: listings often open months or even years in advance, some schools require permission to live off campus, and policies can change by year. Always check your student handbook and speak with Student or Residence Life before signing a lease.
📦Move-In & Essentials
Be ready from day one with packing tips, checklists, and setup guidance.
Apartment Move-In Essentials Checklist
No more late-night CVS runs for toilet paper or missing shower curtains. This room-by-room checklist helps you bring exactly what you need — from cooking basics to cleaning supplies and tools that save the day.
Student Housing Move-In Prep Guide
Moving into off-campus housing isn't as plug-and-play as a dorm. This guide walks you through setting up utilities, transferring mail, taking move-in photos, meeting your landlord, and managing those first-day details that make a big difference.
👯♂️Roommates & Shared Living
Communicate early, split responsibilities, and avoid awkward moments.
Roommate Agreement Template
Avoid awkward texts about whose turn it is to buy toilet paper. This customizable agreement covers bills, chores, quiet hours, and shared expectations so everyone starts on the same page.
Utilities & Shared Bills
One roommate (usually the lead student) typically puts utilities in their name, and others Venmo (or use a similar app) to send their share. In some cases, landlords keep utilities in their name and bill tenants back monthly. Decide what works for your group, then communicate clearly. No guide needed — just be organized and fair.
🚨Rental Scams & Lease Red Flags
Don't get burned. Know the red flags, verify landlords, and protect your deposit.
Top Rental Scams and How to Avoid Them
Scammers love targeting students who are under pressure to find a place. Learn how to spot fake listings, protect your deposits, avoid wire transfer traps, and verify that a listing — and landlord — is legit.
Lease Red Flags You Might Miss
Some leases include sneaky clauses that cost you later — surprise "cleaning" fees, limits on guests, weird sublet restrictions, and more. This guide breaks down what to flag before signing anything.