Getting Started

We recognize that moving is never easy. It takes time, planning, & research to find the right place for you. To help make relocating a little easier, we have compiled many useful resources into one convenient site to answer your questions and help you to find a place to live.

What is Off Campus Housing?

It is apartment buildings, houses, duplexes, triplexes, townhouses, condos, or rooms in homes - any rental housing, owned and operated by private individuals or companies, not by the University of Denver. It can be within walking distance of the campus or part of the greater Denver area.

Campus Life provides a free service to the DU community and area property managers by providing a referral resource for housing in the Denver area. Off-Campus Housing has not investigated the quality, suitability or accuracy of any listing, and is therefore not responsible for the condition of any accommodations or any claims by a landlord. Students should thoroughly investigate any potential accommodations and make their own judgments. Students should also be extremely careful when signing any lease agreement.

If you are looking for DU operated, on-campus accommodations, visit the Housing and Residential Education website at www.du.edu/housing or call their office at (303) 871-2246.

Beginning your search

There are a number of things you need to know before you begin looking for a place to live. First, you should assess your needs and identify your priorities regarding housing. You will save yourself time and energy by considering things like how much you can afford, the location, type of accommodation, whether or not you want roommates, pets, types of leases, and personal preferences before you check out different apartments. Click here for a list of questions to think about before you start searching for housing.

Once you are clear on what you will be looking for, become familiar with landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities in Colorado. If you've never rented before, or if you have rented outside of Colorado, it's a good idea to know the basics about what a lease is and what it covers. The more informed you are before signing a lease, the better off you will be in the long run.

Now you are ready to review listings from landlords and students who need to sublet or find roommates. Take notes, print listings, clip ads - do whatever it takes to stay organized. Phone or visit property managers who are advertising units of potential interest to you. When leaving messages, repeat your name and telephone number slowly and clearly so landlords can call you back. When you visit a property, be sure to show up on time and dress reasonably well. If you decide to rent the place, be prepared! Most owners require an application fee and/or deposit, so bring your checkbook.