Welcome to the 2020 SMU Off-Campus Housing Guide

The Dean of Students Office is happy to support SMU students during the exciting but sometimes confusing process of finding a great housing situation for next year. We hope you’ll find this guide useful and hold onto it, because it will help not just as you search for the perfect place but as you make a smooth transition to off-campus life.

What’s inside? In addition to a directory of student-friendly apartments plus a map showing where they’re located, there is a Property Viewing Checklist you’ll want to take along when you view apartments to make sure they have the features you want and need. And if the terminology is flying right over your head (as in, what is a “guarantor,” and what is typically included in “utilities”?), flip straight to the Glossary of Leasing Terms on p. 24. There is also practical advice about budgets and roommates, and understanding your rights and responsibilities as a renter. You should consider a Roommate Agreement — in fact, we think this is so essential, we’re giving you one on p. 11. Find tips on safety, being a good tenant and neighbor, and more.

Share this guide with your family if they’ll be involved in your housing search, and let the adventure begin!