Be practical when deciding on your college apartment

Going off to college can seem like one of the biggest steps you take. But, moving from the dorms to your first apartment is when you are truly as on your own as you can be at this point. Apartment hunting, roommate screening and furniture and supplies shopping are tasks that can easily be checked off your list. Make sure you remember these important tips as well.

Keep it real. Moving in with your friends seems like it’s going to one giant slumber party (with classes and homework, of course), but make sure you are asking the important questions.

What are your individual needs? What is your budget for an apartment, rent and utilities? Will one of you be bringing a pet? Does someone have dietary or sleep needs? Will you be paying for cable?

Some of these questions may seem silly, but these will be the people with whom you share your space for at least two semesters. Moving in together will not always make you closer, so protect your friendships by having these conversations well before signing a lease.

Once you find who you are going to live with, or maybe you are living alone, start researching neighborhoods around your campus. Look beyond just the apartment community and into the surrounding area. Think about if you will be driving or walking to campus.

Is it more important to be closer or have parking? If you are walking between your unit and campus, or even to a separate parking lot, is it safe? Will you feel comfortable there in all weather and at all times of the day?

As you learn more about unit availability, keep note of which floor each is on. Do you want a first floor so it is easy to move in your furniture? Are you able to carry groceries or a bike up to a second floor? Do some provide outdoor storage or space?

Read your lease carefully. Then read it again. And one more time just to be sure. Talk to your family or anyone who might be helping you in this process about the language on the lease. Discuss it with your future roommates to make sure you are all on the same page, and ask questions.

Those who work in the leasing office are there to help you. After you discuss it with them, if you see a current resident outside, and they are willing, ask them some questions about what it is like to live there.

This is going to be your home for at least a year, so make sure you’ll be happy with where you are and with whom you are sharing a space.

Not only will this make for an easier transition, but help you in your upcoming semesters.

The Arizona Multihousing Association is the statewide trade association for the apartment industry, representing more than 2,000 members in legislative, legal and regulatory matters. They provide services, products, educational programs and networking opportunities to promote ethical, quality rental housing throughout Arizona.