Top tips for international students to find apartments near university campuses

Finding affordable and convenient housing near a university campus is one of the first and most important steps international students must take when studying in the U.S. Navigating the U.S. rental market can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the country and unfamiliar with its housing system. However, with the right approach and tools, you can find an apartment that suits both your budget and lifestyle. In this article, we’ll share top tips for international students to find apartments near university campuses and suggest RentYard, a user-friendly platform that can help simplify your apartment search.

1. Start Your Search Early

The rental market near university campuses can be competitive, especially at the start of the academic year. Apartments can get rented out quickly, so it’s essential to start your search early—ideally, 2-3 months before the semester begins. This gives you enough time to browse available listings, view properties, and make informed decisions.

Key Tip: Universities often have a high turnover of students, with many rentals available just before the school year starts. If you start your search early, you’ll have more options and less stress as move-in day approaches.

2. Use Trusted Rental Platforms Like RentYard

As an international student, navigating the U.S. rental market can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with local rental practices. This is where platforms like RentYard can be incredibly helpful. RentYard specializes in helping students find affordable, quality housing near university campuses in the U.S.

Why Use RentYard?

• Student-Specific Listings: RentYard is focused on student housing and offers listings of apartments, shared housing, and sublets in university towns across the U.S.
• Filter by Budget: You can filter your search by your desired budget, location, and apartment size to find options that best fit your needs.
• User-Friendly Interface: The platform is easy to navigate, making it simple to browse available properties and take virtual tours.
• Expert Support: RentYard provides tips and guides to help international students understand U.S. leasing agreements and the rental process.

RentYard is an excellent starting point for international students looking to rent an apartment in the U.S. Its easy-to-use platform takes the guesswork out of apartment hunting and helps you connect with landlords who understand your specific needs.

3. Consider On-Campus Housing Options

While on-campus housing (like dorms or university-owned apartments) is often more expensive than off-campus options, it offers several advantages for international students:

• Proximity to Classes: Living on or near campus eliminates the need for a long commute and gives you easy access to university facilities.
• Social Opportunities: On-campus housing is a great way to meet other students, especially if you’re new to the country.
• All-Inclusive Rent: On-campus housing often includes utilities like electricity, water, and internet, which simplifies your budgeting.

However, on-campus housing can be competitive, and many universities have limited availability, especially for international students. If you’re interested in on-campus living, it’s important to apply early and explore all available options.

4. Explore Off-Campus Apartments and Shared Housing

If on-campus housing isn’t an option or you prefer more privacy and independence, off-campus apartments can be a great alternative. Here are some factors to consider:

• Location: Apartments near universities are often in high demand and may be more expensive. If you’re open to living further away from campus, you may find more affordable options.
• Shared Housing: Renting a room in a shared apartment or house with other students is a cost-effective option. By sharing rent, utilities, and other expenses, you can reduce your living costs significantly. Websites like RentYard, Craigslist, and Roomster can help you find potential roommates or shared housing listings.
• Safety and Amenities: Before signing a lease, always check the safety of the neighborhood and the amenities available in the apartment, such as laundry facilities, parking, and internet access. Look for areas that are well-lit and have good public transportation options.

5. Understand U.S. Lease Terms and Rental Agreements

U.S. rental agreements can be different from what you’re used to in your home country. It’s important to understand the terms of the lease before committing to a rental property. Here are some key aspects to look out for:

• Lease Duration: Most leases are for 12 months, but some landlords may offer shorter terms, especially in student housing. Be sure to ask if there’s any flexibility in the lease length.
• Rent Payment: Make sure you understand when rent is due, how it should be paid, and if there are any late fees. It’s common for rent to be due on the 1st of each month, but this can vary.
• Security Deposit: Many landlords will require a security deposit, usually equivalent to one month’s rent. This is refundable if you meet the terms of the lease and leave the property in good condition.
• Utilities: Check whether utilities (like electricity, water, and internet) are included in the rent or if they’re an additional cost. Some properties may include utilities, which can simplify budgeting.

If you’re unsure about the terms of your lease, don’t hesitate to ask the landlord for clarification. You can also reach out to RentYard for additional guidance on what to look for in a lease agreement.

6. Stay Within Your Budget

As an international student, it’s crucial to stay within your budget when renting an apartment. Besides rent, remember to account for other living expenses such as:

• Utilities: If they aren’t included in the rent, utilities like electricity, water, gas, and internet can add a significant cost.
• Transportation: If your apartment is further from campus, you may need to budget for transportation costs like public transit, gas, or parking fees.
• Food and Essentials: Don’t forget to include your grocery and essential spending in your budget to ensure you’re fully prepared financially.

RentYard’s filtering options allow you to adjust your search based on your budget, helping you find the most affordable options that meet your needs.

7. Visit Apartments (or Take Virtual Tours)

Once you’ve narrowed down your apartment options, try to schedule a visit to see the apartments in person. If you’re still in your home country, many landlords offer virtual tours or video walkthroughs. This is a great way to assess the apartment’s condition and see if it fits your expectations. Pay attention to:

• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Is the apartment well-maintained? Are there any issues like broken appliances or leaky plumbing?
• Noise Levels: Is the area noisy, especially if you plan to study at home? Consider whether the environment will be conducive to your studies.
• Security: Check that the building has secure entry and that the neighborhood feels safe.

Visiting in person or through a virtual tour ensures you have a clear understanding of what you’re committing to before signing any agreements.

8. Beware of Rental Scams

Unfortunately, scams do exist in the rental market, particularly in university areas where demand is high. To avoid being scammed:

• Never pay upfront: Avoid landlords who ask for large deposits or full payment before you’ve signed a lease or seen the apartment.
• Verify Listings: Use trusted platforms like RentYard, where all listings are verified to ensure their legitimacy. Always make sure the listing is from a reputable source before committing.
• Check Reviews: Look for reviews from other tenants or students who have lived in the same building or neighborhood. This can give you an idea of the landlord’s reputation and the property’s condition.

Conclusion: Use RentYard to Simplify Your Search for Affordable Housing

Finding affordable housing near a university campus can be challenging, but by using trusted resources like RentYard, understanding U.S. leasing practices, and considering your budget and location, you can find the perfect apartment for your needs. RentYard makes the process easier by providing a platform specifically designed for students, offering affordable housing options, and providing expert guidance for international students new to the U.S. rental market.

Start your apartment search with RentYard today and make your transition to university life in the U.S. smooth and stress-free!