Apartment Leasing 101: A Crash Course for College Students Looking for a First Apartment

College is more than just an education; it's a bridge between being under your parents' wings and flying off solo. Leasing your first apartment is exciting and scary at the same time. Learn from those who’ve gone before you with these helpful tips for a smooth transition.

Plan Your Budget

When it comes to signing a lease, there's no recourse for buyer's remorse. Committing to monthly rent you can't afford, no matter how wonderful the apartment, leads to stress and can ultimately damage your credit rating. Figure out how much you can realistically afford and stick with it.

Map Your Commute

You can generally save money the further you go from campus, but it may not be worth the inconvenience of a longer commute. Determine the maximum distance for reasonable travel time and check for proximity to main highways and public transportation.

Start Your Search Early

So you thought life was already hectic? Wait until you start college. Begin looking for an apartment early so you don't feel pressured to make a quick decision.

What's Your Lifestyle?

Consider a studio or one-bedroom apartment if:

• You can afford to live alone or you'll have a roommate but you don't mind sharing a bedroom
• You prefer your independence
• You don't want any distractions

Choose a two- or three-bedroom apartment if:

• You want at least one roommate
• You like having other people around
• You have out-of-town family that will be visiting frequently

About Those Roommates...

Whether you room with your childhood BFF or someone you found (and carefully vetted) on Craigslist, living with a non-family member is a major adjustment. Make sure you sit down and hash out issues like cleaning schedules, overnight guests and who buys the groceries. Better yet, put it all in writing.

Pay Attention to Details

Keep the stars out of your eyes and focus on those seemingly minor details that can tell you a lot about a community and its management. Is paint peeling off the walls? Are the grounds well-tended? Do hot and cold water run in the sinks and tub?

Don't be embarrassed or afraid to turn faucets on and off, flick light switches, look into closets or check the locks. You're entitled to a functional and livable apartment in exchange for your hard-earned rent money.

Read the Lease Carefully

Pretend you'll be taking a final exam based on your lease. Read it through carefully and ask questions about anything you don't understand. It's important to know your rights and responsibilities to avoid trouble down the line.

Pay Rent On Time

It's not as easy as it sounds. Sign up for online rent payment so you have one less thing to worry about.

At our Springs luxury apartment communities, the happiness of our residents is our biggest priority. If you're not satisfied with your apartment for any reason, we'll release you from your lease within 30 days of move-in.

Stop by and visit! Our Springs on-site management teams are waiting to welcome you.