Housing Hunter's Questions

It is important to determine what you need versus what you want but can live without. If you would prefer to be close to the University, you may decide upon a smaller apartment compared to a larger apartment further away. Is location your priority, or the apartment size? Be honest with yourself and with a little luck you'll find a place that is perfect for you. This list is just to get you started. Keep an open mind and listen to advice from people who have rented before - the more informed you are, the better able you are to make a decision.

• Do you need a place within walking distance of campus?
• How far are you willing to commute to campus every day?
• Will you consider taking the bus if you can save money on rent?
• What kind of housing do you want? An apartment, house, or something else?
• How much are you willing to spend on housing every month?
• How long are you planning to occupy this apartment?
• What type of lease is right for your situation?
• Do you need someone to co-sign your lease? Who?
• Do you need an option to sublet your apartment, or will you stay for the entire lease?
• Do you want the utilities to be included in the rent?
• Do you have a budget in place for other housing costs, like a telephone, cable TV, internet, parking, electricity, and other costs?
• Do you need a very quiet place to study?
• How big do you want the bedrooms to be?
• Do you want a place for a dining room table?
• Do you like hardwood floors or carpets?
• If a place is unfurnished, do you have a plan for getting basic furnishings?
• Do you want a balcony, deck or yard?
• What is the laundry situation? Are there hook-ups or are they provided?
• Are you willing to do minor maintenance, yard work or snow removal?
• Do you need storage space?
• Do you need a parking space?
• Do you need a non-smoking environment?
• Do you require easy access to amenities (e.g., a drug store for regular medication refills)?
• Do you want to live alone or with roommates?
• How many roommates? Who are they?
• Will they be available to help you look for a place?
• Do you need an accommodation that allows pets?
• How important are amenities like a dishwasher, air conditioning, elevator, swimming pool or workout facilities?

The more questions you ask, the fewer surprises you will have later!

Now that you have your "shopping list" of needed and desired features, go out and look at a variety of places! Until you see what's available, your idea may not be realistic. Looking at lots of places will give you an idea of what's available and help you further sort out your priorities.

If you have suggestions for further content on this page, questions or comments please let us know by emailing och@du.edu! Thanks!