Are you looking for your own space to live away from the chaos of campus life? As a college student, there are a few essential things to consider when moving off-campus. To help you find the best option, follow these four suggestions.
1. Research Different Locations
It’s always a good idea to make sure the location you are considering living in is convenient to school. The best way to do this is to look for a home or Apartment in West LA that has easy to access public transportation, bike paths and is near major roads. Investigate who else lives in the area to ensure the community is welcoming to college students. A neighborhood comprised of seniors or young families may not be the ideal environment for you. Drive or walk around the area to see if there are everyday necessities such as gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants that fit your lifestyle.
2. Decide if You Need Furnishings
Do you have furniture to bring with you? You need more than just a bed, but also a kitchen table, couch, dresser, chairs and much more for a comfortable place to live. It’s always nice to have all your own items, but sometimes the cost of purchasing this amount of furniture is too expensive for a college student. Some UCLA off campus housing options may include basic furniture as part of the rental. Even though a furnished home may be more expensive than an unfurnished one, the cost is spread out over time and requires less money when you move in.
3. Have a Detailed Budget Already Created
To know how much money you can spend on rent each month, you need to understand how your income and expenses line up. It is more expensive to live off-campus than in the college dorm room. Sit down and outline how much you need for a security deposit, estimate how much utilities cost, set aside enough money for groceries, and decide if you need money for a car or public transportation. If you can’t afford to live in a place on your own, consider reaching out to friends and ask if they want to join you and help split the expenses.
4. Look for the Best Lease Options for Your Needs
Knowing how long you want to stay in the apartment or home is necessary, so you choose the right lease. Are you only looking to stay there until summer, or will you be living here for a few years? A short-term lease may be more expensive, but if you only intend to stay for a semester or until summer break, you don’t want to sign a one-year lease. Many landlords in college communities are aware of students’ needs and are willing to accommodate a lease for the term of the school year, so don’t be afraid to ask about that option upfront.
Choosing to live away from your college campus is an exciting move. There are many options to keep in mind while looking for a new place, so be sure you know what to expect before signing a contract.
