Your off-campus housing game plan
A practical sequence from budget and roommate conversations through tours, lease review, move-in, and documentation.
Read the students guideBetter housing decisions start before the tour.
Practical educational content for students, parents and supporters, and property owners. Information is general and is not legal, tax, financial, or housing advice.
How to compare the real monthly cost
Look beyond base rent to utilities, parking, internet, transportation, deposits, insurance, and furnishing.
Read the students guideRental scam red flags
Slow down when there is pressure, wire-only payment, no tour, inconsistent identities, or a deal far below market.
Read the students guideA parent’s lease-review conversation guide
Questions that help your student think through obligations without taking over the decision.
Read the parents guideGuarantors: understand the commitment
A guaranty can create substantial financial obligations. Know what is covered and how long it lasts.
Read the parents guideMove-in documentation checklist
Photos, condition reports, utilities, insurance, emergency contacts, and payment records to organize.
Read the parents guideBuild a listing students can actually compare
Lead with per-person cost, lease structure, distance, availability, utilities, deposits, and policies.
Read the owners guideFair housing in student rental advertising
Focus on property features and neutral eligibility criteria; avoid preferences about protected characteristics.
Read the owners guideResponding to inquiries with clarity
Use consistent information, document commitments, disclose material fees, and never create false urgency.
Read the owners guide