Tricks for Finding Off-Campus Housing


Off-campus living offers many luxuries and freedoms. But it’s hard to get those luxuries and freedoms if you don’t know where to look. For most students, the places to look are in their university’s off-campus housing services or in a student housing community. There, you’ll find tips and guidance for finding suitable off-campus housing. Below are a few of these tips.
Look Early
“Start your search early.” This is perhaps the most common advice you’ll hear while searching for off-campus apartments or rooms for rent in Hamilton. There are more apartment vacancies after exams and during the summer. So, early summertime is about the best time to find off-campus housing – the earlier the better. Searching while there’s less competitionwill help you find the best deal and accommodations. For example, it’ll be easier to find an affordable, furnished, inclusive apartment in a great community that’s close to campus and surrounded by practical amenities.
Know Your Renters’ Rights
Most student renters are unaware of their rights as renters. However, learning these rights is perhaps the most important step in apartment hunting. Knowing your rights will help you understand the lease agreement and flesh-out terms that aren’t beneficial to you. It’ll also teach you appropriate questions to ask, such as:
·         How, where and whenis the rent paid?
·         How are maintenance requests handled?
·         How are utilities paid and how much do they cost?
·         How is payment for damage recouped?
·         What violations can cause a tenant to lose their deposit?
·         Are there any additional fees (e.g. parking fees or fees for amenities)?
·         Is early lease termination possible? Is there a fee?
·         How many people can be added to the lease? What are the procedures for adding or removing someone from the lease?
·         Is subletting allowed?
·         What are the penalties for rule violations?
Asking all these questions will give a better understanding of your landlord and apartment community. It will also ensure yourrights are protected before and after signing the lease.
Use Your School’s Housing Listings
Many universities offer their own off-campus housing and roommate listings. For example, to find student housing with a McMaster accommodation, you should start by checking the school’s housing listings. This will also ensure you find a reputable landlord with a track record of serving students at your university. Plus, universities are more apt to advertise the most affordable and convenient housing options, such as those found at West Village Suites. These listings also include the most “student-friendly” housing options.

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