It’s finally time; you’re finally moving away to start your college adventure! You may have been looking forward to this rite of passage for years. There’s just one problem: Where will you live?
If dorms hold no appeal, what about renting a house while you’re at school? There’s a lot to consider, so this post offers helpful tips for students renting a house near campus.
Need housing now? Read our student rental tips below, then check out our student housing in Dayton, Ohio.
1. Calculate Your Student Housing Budget Before Hunting for a Rental
It’s all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of house hunting before college, but don’t fall in love with a rental property before you count the cost. In Dayton, student housing averages about $900 to $1,500 per month, which is still below the national average. However, it’s pricey for students to fund the rental with a part-time job.
Experts say that you shouldn’t spend more than 30% of your take-home pay on housing. We’d consider that one of our best tips for students renting a house because you won’t only be paying rent. Extras may include a security deposit or a pet deposit if you want to bring your furry friend, so you might have to find a roommate to afford the rental.
2. Consider the Best Time of Year To Secure Your Rental in Your Campus Location
There’s a good and a bad time to shop for off-campus rental housing. In Dayton, the best time is in the spring, shortly after graduation (May to June). Many students move out then, leaving the incoming students with plenty of housing options.
Wait until the end of summer, and the competition for this housing will be fierce. You may have trouble finding a place at all, especially in a good location.
3. Comb Through the Lease Agreement’s Fine Print Before You Sign on the Dotted Line
Here’s one of our best tips: Fully read the lease agreement before you sign anything!
The lease contains everything you need to know about the terms of renting a house, including how long you’ll commit to the rental. One-year leases are common and the least expensive option, but three-month, six-month, and month-to-month leases are also possible. Typically, the longer the lease is, the less you’ll pay per month.
Your lease should answer these questions:
- Are you responsible for maintenance?
- Are there quiet hours?
- Can you have overnight guests?
- Where can you park your car?
- Are you allowed pets?
- What’s the refund policy for the security deposit?
- Are utilities included?
- What modifications can you make (painting or hanging pictures)?
Looking for more detailed lease agreement tips for students renting a house in Dayton, Ohio? Nels Student Housing can help.
4. Cover Your Tenant Rights As a Student in the Area
Do you know the tenant rights for students in your state? Some landlords take advantage of student renters who don’t, so take some time to understand your rights and responsibilities.
For example, in Dayton, you can’t just stop paying the rent just because a landlord won’t make repairs. You’ll need to follow the rent escrow process, which holds your money in an approved account until the landlord fixes the problem.
It’s also good to check what landlords can and cannot do in your state. For example, your landlord can’t enter your house without giving at least 24 hours of notice unless it’s an emergency. They also may not change your locks, shut off utilities, or refuse to rent to you based on your race, religion, disability, or gender.
Want More Off-Campus Housing Advice?
The last of our tips for students renting a house is to stay positive! For example, if you’re looking for a great place to live near the University of Dayton, you have options like Nels Student Housing, which offers beautiful rentals that tick every box on the renting checklist for students.
Call us at (937) 429-5020 or check out our guide to living on campus vs. off campus.