3 Tips for Finding Off-Campus Student Housing

There’s a huge number of benefits to living off campus. For instance, housing costs less and you have more freedom in terms of who you live with, what you eat, and who you invite over. Plus, you gain greater privacy, which becomes extra important after your freshman year — your workload will increase and you’ll need your own quiet place to study. Still, not all off-campus housing is created equal. You need to ensure that you pick well.

1. Distance from Campus

Only look at apartments near University of Alberta. Living farther away may seem appealing for the lower costs, but it will ultimately cost you more in time and effort. Whether you plan to walk, bike, drive, or take public transit, the journey should be simple and take no more than a few minutes. Anything longer and you risk being late to classes or becoming exhausted by your daily journey.

2. Quality of the Building

Depending on your budget, you may have to settle for something less than the best. However, you should never rent a place where the damage is so severe that you are worried about the building structure, such as in the case you notice any signs of mold, water damage, or bug infestations.

If you decide to rent a place that has some minor damage, take pictures before you move in. This will provide evidence that you were not responsible and the landlord will be unable to charge you for repairs.

3. Necessities and Other Amenities

There are some things that you’d like to have but are unessential. Other amenities are necessary for you to be comfortable in your everyday life. When narrowing down your options, be sure to distinguish between the two. For example, you may need somewhere to park your car or store your bike. You may prefer to have onsite laundry, but you could settle for a laundromat nearby.

If you want to have the experience of living around other students but without distractions, choose University of Alberta off-campus housing like The Horizon. Just across the street from campus, you’ll be able to walk or bike to school. Furthermore, you’ll receive far more than just the basics, all at an affordable price. Apartments are fully furnished, complete with leather couches and flat-screen TVs. On site there’s a games room, a study lounge, laundry facilities, and parking — everything you need to stay comfortable, safe, and happy.