Must Have Features in Off Campus Accommodation

If you are going to spend money on off campus accommodation, you might as well get the best that your money can afford. You do not have to rent out an entire apartment, as there are many complexes around most campuses that are designed for students. Some of these housing units are shared to make it more affordable for individual students and you get to choose who you want to live with. The following are some of the must have features when looking for accommodation off campus.

Individual leases

When sharing accommodation, every student should have an individual lease, rather than having one-person sign the lease on behalf of the others. This ensures that you are only responsible for your portion of the rent. In case the other housemates fail to pay their rent, this should have no effect whatsoever on your residency. Sometimes roommates transfer or even drop out of school and you do not want to be left with the bulk of rent to pay.

Private rooms

One of the major reasons why people choose to stay out of campus hostels is so they do not have to share personal space with others. The least you should get out there is a large private bedroom where you can study, relax and safely store your personal items without the risk of intrusion by a roommate. You can find housing units with three or four bedrooms, shared kitchens and living areas. You should get a private bath as well. You do not want to be held up- in the cue for the bathroom in the morning when you have an early class.

Household appliances

Kitchen appliances such as cookers, fridges and microwaves, as well as a laundry machine should be a standard in the housing unit. This equipment can be quite costly for a student and you don’t need to start budgeting for such appliances this early. If these are not available, you are going to have a hard time making the place homely. Air conditioning or ceiling fans should also be available to you.  Furnishings such as beds and study tables may be available depending on the housing company that you choose.

Security systems

Security should be a deal breaker for you. If the building does not have security surveillance systems, security lights or a guard, you should be wary of it. Security is very important for campus students. You should choose a housing unit that is not too far from your campus and one that exists on a well-lit street with regular security patrols.

Parking

If you have a car or a motorcycle, then you will definitely need ample and secure parking. Parking out on the street could get you a ticket or your car stolen or towed. The housing company should provide a lot of parking space for residents, especially with designated parking so you know your exact parking spot.

You will be amazed at how many options are available out there fitting these criteria if you search in the right paces. 

Posted By: Athens Commons  http://athencommons.net/