Living On Campus Living Off Campus
Proximity - Closer to classes, Newton Gresham Library, Loman Student Center, computer labs, and on campus events.
A unique experience – This time at college is the only time you will live on campus and live in the mix of it all. You can get an apartment at any time in life.
Security – Constant patrol by the University Police Department with escort programs available as well. Also, most residence halls have cameras inside and outside.
Get social – your peers are always close by.
Location, location, location – You can choose where you want to live.
Amenities – Most off campus communities offer a variety of amenities from fitness centers, computer labs, study rooms, volleyball courts, tanning beds to pools and hot tubs.
Privacy – How much privacy is up to you! You can live alone or with roommates; you can even have your own bathroom and lock your bedroom door.
Responsibility – Learn how to live within budget and pay bills yourself. Everything isn’t always included into one bill or the rent.
Meal Plan – Save time by not having to cook and spend less with fewer trips to the grocery store.
Sleep in – Who wants to get up early to get ready and find a parking space or wait on a shuttle when you can roll out of bed and walk to class?
Housing resources – SHSU is equipped with the amenities and resources to make the transition to living on-campus as smooth as possible.
Gain credit – When living off campus and having a good payment record, you can increase your credit score and build a positive rental history.
Potential for better grades – Some Bearkats find that with fewer interruptions, they have more time to study and in return make better grades.
Grow your circle – Living off-campus gives you the opportunity to meet a totally different demographic than you would on campus through getting to know your neighbors and meeting new people at community events.
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Looking for Off Campus Housing
Whether you’re a on the SHSU waitlist for housing, transitioning out of a residence hall, a faculty or staff member or an international student, the Residence Life Department is available to assist you in your search. There are several local housing opportunities available to you right here in Huntsville as well as in Conroe or The Woodlands. The question is where to begin? Looking for a new place to live may not seem stressful at first but think about it…you are looking for your new home. There are many options to consider such as location, roommates, Lease terms, security, amenities, floor plans, and most important to many Bearkats, price. Ask yourself…
• What type of housing am I interested in? An apartment, house, a condo, duplex, or a room in a private house?
• What can I afford? Do I need an all-inclusive Lease?
• How many people do I want to live with, if any? Am I okay with co-ed roommates?
• Location: Do I want to live within walking distance to campus?
• Does it make more sense to live in the Conroe/Woodlands area?
• Furnished or unfurnished?
• What amenities are most important? Security, pool, pet park, study room, computer lab, etc.?
• Do I want my own bedroom and bathroom?
• What Lease term do I need/want? Which term can I afford?
• Do I have the means to easily travel back to campus for extracurricular activities and study groups?
• Do I enjoy cooking? Do I even know how?
• Is it more convenient to stay on campus between classes or go home?
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The earlier, the better, especially in “student based” or lease-by-the-bedroom housing. Most of these communities in Huntsville begin leasing in October of each year for the next academic year. Normally the earlier you sign at said properties, the better your rental rate and special. At the same time, don’t let someone’s “car salesman” personality get you into a Lease too early. The best time to sign is when you have come up with a budget, done your research on all communities that you are interested in, completely examined the community and Lease, feel comfortable with your roommate(s), and feel that the time is right for you.
Plan Ahead & Know Your Priorities
What is your budget?
How much do you want to pay for rent vs. how much can you pay for rent? We suggest that you use our Off Campus Budget Worksheet
• Setting a budget is the first step you should take. This will help you determine what you can afford, if you need roommates and if so, how many.
• Plan for different types of expenses such as an application fee, administration fee, security deposit, renter’s insurance, pet deposit, pet fee, monthly pet rent, and your rent.
• Will you be responsible for utilities? What is the deposit and set-up fee to turn the utility on?
• Will you need movers, a moving truck, or packing supplies?
• Do you need to buy or rent any furniture or a washer/dryer?
• What household items do you need to purchase?
я Toiletries
я Kitchen items – small appliances, flat ware, cookware, dishes, etc.
я Bath rug, shower curtain, towels, plunger
я Food
я TV
я Cleaning Supplies
я Lamps, light bulbs, batteries
Remember that most rent for individual leases are paid by installments. The total contract rent is divided evenly into the total number of contracted months. For example, if you sign a 12-month Lease for $5,700, that amount is divided into 12 equal installments of $475. The installment payment is typically due on the first of each month, including the first installment even if you have not moved in yet. Keep in mind, the first installment will not be prorated.
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Off Campus Budget Worksheet
*What is your budget? Before you begin looking for off campus housing, decide on how much you can afford to spend on housing and other expenses. You’ll want to use some sort of budgeting tool or worksheet. Keep in mind which expenses are FIXED (what you can’t change/control) and which are VARIABLE/FLEXIBLE (expenses that are flexible, you can change or remove all together).
Rent
Move In Fees/Deposit
Groceries/Meal Plan
Renter’s Insurance
Health Insurance
Furniture (buy/rent)
Vehicle Payment
Vehicle Insurance
Cell Phone
Books/Supplies
Loan Payment
Organization Dues/ Fees
Utilities (Electric/Water/Cable/Sewer/Trash/Internet/Gas)
Credit Card(s)
Groceries/Eating Out
Clothes/Shoes/Etc.
School Supplies
Entertainment (Concerts/Movies/Etc.)
Gas for Transportation
Public Transportation
Laundry
Hygiene Products
Travel Savings Misc.
Difference (Income-Expenses)
Income Daily Monthly Semester Yearly Job Financial Aid Misc. Total Income Fixed Expenses Daily Monthly Semester Yearly Tuition
Fees
&
Other Total
Variable/Flexible Expenses Daily Monthly Semester Yearly
Fixed Expenses
Other Total
Daily Monthly Semester Yearly Total
Total
Expenses
Variable/Flexible Expenses
Income
Fixed
Total Variable/Flexible Expenses Total Overall Expenses
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Vs.
House
Privacy
Some Bearkats like living in a house more because of the privacy. Normally houses are separated with substantially more amount of space. Whereas apartments are separated by thin walls which may offer little privacy.
Space
This is probably one of the most important things students consider when looking for a home. You can expect to have more spacious rooms and mostly likely a private outdoor space which is great for grilling and other outdoor activities.
Repairs
You are more than likely have to wait a shorter period of time for repairs versus an apartment community with hundreds of residents.
Lease Flexibility
Write in whatever you like into the Lease such as a month-to-month term, pets, work relocation exception, etc. Making these changes with an apartment community when allowed will cost you!
Utilities
Usually no utilities are included in the monthly rent. This means that you will be responsible for utility deposits and set up fees.
Amenities
Apartment
With perks like a pool, gym, study room, game room, basketball court, valet trash pick-up, volleyball court, and more…who wouldn’t want that?
Location
Location is so important to Bearkats when deciding on where to live in Huntsville or surrounding areas. Many apartment communities are located close to campus, local shopping, and restaurants.
Resident Events
Several communities host monthly if not weekly resident events. These functions allow you to meet your fellow neighbors, make new friends, learn some nifty DIY tactics, hopefully gain knowledge that will benefit your education and/or professional career, and of course free food!
All Inclusive
Many apartments offer all-inclusive rents, meaning all bills paid or at minimum everything except for electricity. This is an added benefit, saving students from utility deposits and service set up fees.
Time
Your time is priceless and not having to maintain a yard gives you just that.
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time at SHSU. If you are thinking about getting roommates, choose carefully. You will most likely want to start off by talking to people you already know about possibly rooming together. There are pros and cons to this scenario. Living with someone you know makes for less tension at the beginning because you are aware of what you have in common, the other person’s personality, likes, dislikes and lifestyle. It makes for fewer surprises along the way. You may feel that you “totally know” this person but living with them can be a very different experience and living with your best friend does not necessarily mean you will be living with your “best” roommate.
If you are not able to find a person you already know, consider using a roommate matching system (provided by most student living communities in Huntsville), apps like ZeeMee, social media, or even a referral through a mutual friend or associate. Looking for a roommate to live with can be both fun and scary at the same time. This is the person that you will be sharing your home with for a semester or entire academic year. Take the time to find someone you can get along with as a contribution to your happiness and well being in the long term. When considering someone you don’t know, it’s a good idea to speak to the individual over the phone or virtually. Try out our sample Roommate Questionnaire. If it feels like a good fit, then set up a time to meet in person and discuss some more important matters just to measure compatibility. Consider how you feel about friends and lifestyle preferences, finances, religious beliefs, and what type of housing you want. During the interview, keep the items below in mind.
• Always be kind
• Have open and honest conversations
• Discuss financial responsibilities (utilities, food, furniture, etc.)
• Speak about your pet peeves
• Treat others as you would want to be treated
• The people you interview are probably just as nervous and skeptical as you are
• Make a list of the positive characteristics you like
• Do the same for the negative or things you find unacceptable/questionable
• Remember no one will be exactly what you want and that compromises will have to be made
• If you interview more people than what you need to live with, make sure to follow up with everyone on your final decision. Remember these students are in the same boat as you, so it wouldn’t be fair to leave them in limbo. Inform them of your decision as soon as possible.
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Once you make your final decision, it would be a good idea to get together with your group and draft up a Roommate Contract. These usually cover how decisions are made about certain things within the household with the intention of eliminating any unforeseen problems. The agreement should cover lifestyle preferences, household rules, etc. This may seem “over the top” but could help prevent problems in the future and will create an environment of respect. Below are a few items to consider while drafting your Roommate Contract. See the Sample Roommate Contract provided by Sam Houston State University Residence Life Office and the one provided by Student Legal and Mediation Services.
• Gather and document contact information on each roommate’s parents and guarantors/ co-signers on the Lease.
• Establish rules on how the rent and utilities will be paid (if not signing individual Leases). If the unit is not all inclusive, it is a good idea for each roommate to have one utility in their name.
• Discuss who will bring what. If the unit is furnished, then no large items are needed. Discuss who will bring dishes, utensils, pot and pans, smaller appliances like a toaster or Keurig, etc. Make sure to note beside each item who will be providing it.
• Food and cooking – How will the food be purchased (together or separately)? How often will you cook? Would it make sense space wise and usage wise to share commonly used items such as flour, sugar, condiments, and such? What about replacement of those commonly used items?
• Household supplies/cleaning/neatness – Will there be a schedule for cleaning the common areas, including taking out the trash? Will the group make a cleaning chart and rotate purchasing supplies or always split the cost of the purchase?
• Other people’s property – To borrow or not to borrow?
• Pets – Any allergies? Do you want pets? Does anyone require an Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal?
• Guests – How often is too often? How late is too late? How many is too many?
• Music and television – Set quiet hours within the household. How will you handle noise and time spent in the common areas?
• Tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.
• Study times and places – Try to stay consistent and frequent on this subject.
• Sleeping times/habits – Be considerate and quiet while others are sleeping.
• Privacy – Always remember to lock exterior doors. Be mindful of the keyless deadbolt/ lock; if you have a roommate that isn’t home, double check to see when they will return. Lock bedroom doors when you don’t want to be disturbed. Remember your roommates and neighbors, be mindful of others.
The above items are very important topics and cover several vital issues that may arise when living with others. It is imperative that everyone be in on the final decision. This process also allows the debatable issues to come up before a contract is signed. Remember if there is a change in roommates (if someone moves out and you get a new roommate), you want to go through this same process before the new roommate moves in.
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Living with others isn’t always gum drops and roses. Even with careful dialog and prior agreements, misunderstandings will happen. Here are some steps you can take towards a comfortable living environment.
• Always keep an open line of communication with your roommates. Share your likes, dislikes, or preferences openly. DO NOT put off stressful discussions for fear of confrontation. Sit down and talk things out calmly and honestly.
• Make a commitment to your roommate(s) to work together in making the best living environment. Share in the decision making concerning the household, don’t forget those negotiation and compromising skills of yours. Check out SHSU’s Student Legal & Mediation Services, they provide free training in mediation and more!
• Be thoughtful toward your roommate(s) and their guests, family, and friends. If one of you is going through a particularly stressful time, share the situation so that extra-sensitive safeguards can take place. The amount of detail that is given will be up to the individual, always show respect for each other’s feelings, property, and emotions.
What resources are available to assist me?
Residence Life
Word of mouth: ask friends or classmates about their experiences
Internet Listing Services: apartments.com, apartmentfinder.com, Google, HAR, rent.com, etc.
Community reviews (only view the last 12 months of
Social Media
Local newspaper ads, Craigslist, etc.
– Texas Apartment Association
SHSU Student Legal & Mediation Services
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The Tour
• You want to make appointments when possible and set up tours at the communities you are interested in. Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour at each location. The leasing staff may strongly encourage you to sign a Lease right then and there. They may even say that their rates and/or specials are for “today only.” Don’t feel pressured into signing, remember, the Lease is a legal and binding contract once you sign it. It’s important to know that many places do not have a grace period that allows you to back out of the Lease if you change your mind after you sign.
• If possible, take your future roommate(s) with you to tour the properties.
• Some communities may take you on a virtual or self-guided tour if that is their policy or if you prefer that over an in-person tour. Also check to see if virtual tours are posted to the property website or social media pages.
• If you pass a resident out on the grounds, politely ask them about their living experience at the community.
• Once you have your decision or at least narrowed your list down to 2-3 properties, get your parents or Guarantors involved. They may want to tour the communities (in person or virtually) and may also have questions that you did not think about. Use our Apartment Search Checklist to help you in your final decision.
Tips
* When you take the tour, many communities have model apartments. These units have never been lived in and may not show normal wear and tear.
* Model units are known to be closer to the office or other amenities.
* Model units sometimes have a different appearance (furniture, fixtures, accent walls, faucets, appliances, décor, etc.) than regular apartments.
Lighting is also important
Is there well-lit parking available near the apartment building entrance?
Does lighting illuminate the building, breezeways (hallways), as well as the living space?
Is the entrance to the unit visible from the street or another apartment (to discourage criminal activity)?
Does landscaping provide a place for someone to remain concealed?
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Research
• Reviews: Check out the properties’ Google and Yelp reviews. Don’t go back any further than a year, you want to know what you personally will be dealing with. Staff turnover in off campus living is quite consistent, so you don’t want to consider those reviews that involve employees who are no longer working at the community.
• Ask for a sample Lease and any other additional addendums/documents to take home to review.
• Did you know that SHSU’S Off Campus Living Coordinator and Student Legal and Mediation Services are free sources for students to utilize with questions about the Lease or any other housing documents?
• Make sure to ask about all financial responsibilities. What up-front/application fees, deposits, green fees, and any other fees will you be responsible for?
• Ask for the average utilities (electric, water, cable, etc.) and ask what is included with the monthly rent/installment.
• Will renter’s and or liability insurance be required?
• What are the pet fees, and deposits? Is anything refundable? Is there a monthly pet rent?
• What are the security features? Does the property have an on-site Courtesy or Security Officer?
• How do you get in touch with personnel after hours for maintenance and other emergencies?
• Is there a roommate matching system in place?
• What are the qualifying guidelines for students?
• How does management handle resident disputes, loud noise complaints, roommate conflict, etc.?
• What amenities are offered (pool, study rooms, gym, pet park, shuttle, etc.)?
• What type of resident events does the property host?
Types of Leases
Conventional/Traditional Lease VS. Individual/By-the-Bed Lease
Responsible for finding your own roommate(s).
One Lease for the entire apartment is signed by everyone 18 years old and above.
Only one Guarantor (co-signer).
If one person must leave/move out, the remaining roommates are responsible for that person’s portion of the rent and utilities if they don’t find a new roommate.
Roommate matching service usually provided.
Each roommate signs their own separate Lease.
Each roommate has their own Guarantor (co- signer).
If a roommate leaves, the management company will attempt to find a new roommate and the current roommates are not responsible for the rent of the person that left.
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Signing Day!
Understand that the Lease along with any addendums and supporting forms are legal and binding documents. Make sure you read and fully understand your rights and responsibilities as outlined in the Lease Agreement. Don’t be pressured to sign a Lease right after the tour, always remember that you are in control. Leasing agents are trained to not let you walk out of the door without paying the application fee, completing the application, and signing the Lease. Ask for a copy of the Lease and any additional addendums/documents to take home with you to review/study. Highlight important areas of the documents and ask questions about things you don’t understand. There should be leasing agents available to help or you can always reach out to the SHSU Off Campus Living Coordinator or Student Legal and Mediation Services. Keep in mind that if any individual listed on the Lease does not fulfill their Lease obligations, you will be held in breach of contract and legal action can be taken against you. This breach will affect your (as well as your Guarantor’s/co-signer’s) credit rating and your ability to lease another apartment in the future. All parties listed on the Lease will be held equally accountable. As with any legal document, always keep a copy of everything you sign and get all agreements in writing, such as:
• Lease
• Payment receipts (security deposit, pet deposit, rent payment, etc.)
• Addendums (including special agreements or deals)
• Communication concerning maintenance
• Resident concern communication (roommate, safety issues, etc.)
• Move-In Condition Form
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Release of Resident
You will not be released from your Lease Agreement/Contract until the end of the term unless there is a special provisions clause, or you fall under the military clause. Refer to the Apartment Vocabulary/ Lingo section of this guide for more information about subletting and reletting.
Once you’ve signed your Lease Agreement, make sure to get your new mailing address from your apartment community. When you get it, go ahead and put in your change of address form for the semester that you will be moving. You can do this by clicking to usps.com and searching “Change of Address Form.”
Insurance
If renter’s insurance is not required, consider getting it anyway. You want to make sure that all your personal belongings are covered and can be replaced in case of a fire, flood, or any other emergency that will cause damage. Ask your insurance agent about general liability, personal injury, and flood insurance. Talk to them about scenarios involving your belongings being damaged due to water, smoke, fire, or if an electrical power serge causes damage your electronics. Inquire about accidental damage to another person’s property, including the apartment community. Look into if someone sustains an injury in your apartment and lastly find out if you are in a flood zone.
If liability insurance is required, shop for the best deal you can get. Make sure that your policy has the verbiage that is required by community management. Have the property management review and approve it in writing prior to move in day. Check with your parents or guardians homeowner’s insurance, have them review their policy to see if your renter’s and/or liability insurance can be added for a minimal increase.
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Moving Tips
Confirm your move in date by looking at your Lease, move in letter/email, as well as contacting the Leasing Office to see if you have a specific move-in time. Also find out if there are any restrictions concerning move-in hours. Don’t hesitate to talk about your upcoming move with the leasing staff, they are experienced in this area and most likely have gone through it personally themselves. They will be able to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have and possibly have a few suggestions. Once you have this information you can begin to organize your move. Having a formulated plan can save you hours if not days, so make sure to take this process seriously.
If you are just moving personal items and not large furniture, then you won’t need much help. However, if you have furniture, you’ll need to make moving arrangements with family, friends, or professional movers. You may also want to consider a rental truck if you can’t solicit help from someone with a van, pickup truck, or SUV. For the vehicle rental, contact the rental company to confirm that you qualify, sometimes there are age restrictions to rent a vehicle. It is a good idea to make your rental reservation several weeks, if not months in advance as there are numerous students moving at the same time every August. Confirm your rental reservation at least a week prior to the scheduled pick-up date. Don’t forget to ask the rental company if they offer student discounts! We suggest that you pick up your rental as early as possible in the morning to avoid long lines. Many moving companies also rent or sell items you may need for the move such as boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, tie down ropes, blankets, dollies, and other items. Keep in mind these items will be sold at a premium, so if you are interested in saving some cash, make a list of supplies needed and drop by your local super store prior to your move.
Three’s a crowd, right? Not when it comes to moving! Have a few of your friends or fellow Bearkats pitch in to help to make moving a fun event. Show your appreciation by throwing a “move-in” party and order their favorite take out. Have a cooler on hand loaded with some good cold beverages, your friends won’t be able to resist a free meal and good times at your new place. Lastly, save your receipts. In some cases, moving expenses are tax deductible.
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Move-In Day!
The day that you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. You are ready to get your shiny new keys and move into your home! But before you unload and unpack, make sure you complete the following:
• Document the condition of the unit by taking pictures and video. Email them to management, yourself, and your Guarantor (co-signer) to show the date stamp.
• Be as detailed and specific as possible when filling out your apartment move-in condition form.
• Don’t leave any blanks on the form, if the item is in good condition mark it with “ok,” if something does not apply, write “n/a.”
• Return the form in the timeframe specified in your Lease to management.
• Have the apartment representative sign and date the apartment condition form.
• Make sure to keep a copy for your records.
• Report all maintenance requests separately.
• Always make written requests.
• Always keep a copy.
• Never withhold rent if maintenance items are not repaired.
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Your New Life Off Campus
It’s always a good idea to practice common courtesy when living off campus. Consider the following:
• Introduce yourself to your neighbors and if you feel comfortable, exchange numbers.
*Neighbors can contact you directly if there is ever a problem.
*They are also more likely to watch your home and/or pet when you are away.
• It’s very important to let neighbors know in advance when you are going to have a gathering.
* Remember to be respectful when you have visitors.
* Make sure guests park in guest parking and not in front of the building, on the grass, or in reserved spots.
• Keep noise levels to a minimum and respect the quiet hours. Any noise heard outside your residence is too loud.
Be a Safe Bearkat
• Don’t go out alone at night.
• If you will be out past dusk, make sure to leave the porch light on as well as some interior lighting.
• Check the back of your vehicle before getting in (always keep your doors locked).
• Know your surroundings.
• Always let someone know when you are leaving and when you plan on retuning.
• Share your location on your cell phone with someone you trust.
• Lock all doors and windows of the apartment or home.
• Wear bright/reflective clothing when walking or running after dark.
• Have an emergency preparedness kit ready at all times.
Be a Responsible Bearkat
Always pay rent on time and follow the rules and regulations as outlined in your Lease Agreement and Addendums to avoid eviction.
• A resident could be evicted for violation of the Lease, major destruction of property, or non-payment of rent.
• Management must give the resident at least 72-hours written notice (depending on the Lease) of their intent to evict for nonpayment of rent.
• If the resident refuses to move out, management may file an eviction lawsuit in the Justice of Peace Court to forcibly evict a tenant. Management can also charge the resident for the court cost/ filing fee.
Time to Renew…or Move
If you live in a community that is a lease-by-the-room property where you signed an individual Lease, be ready to start thinking about renewing sometime between September and October. Yes, you just moved in or renewed but time waits for no one and that includes you when it comes to “student housing.” Talk out the pros and cons with your roommate(s), parents, and Guarantor. Also, make sure you will be at the same school the next Fall. The apartment staff will urge you to renew earlier to get the best deal and/or rate, but only do so if that is what is best for you. Once you renew, you can’t just change your mind, the Lease you have signed is a legal and binding contract! The upside to renewing is that you get to stay at your current community and in your current apartment without having to move out.
Should you decide to move out, many communities provide large roll off dumpsters throughout the property for you to discard your larger than normal items. Do not leave bulk items on the curb or on the ground aroud the dumpster, the trash provider will not pick it up. If you put down a security deposit and want to get it back, you should:
• Not owe rent or have an account balance
• Fulfill the Lease Agreement
• Return keys, fobs, access cards, remotes, etc. that was issued at move in
• Leave the unit clean, there can be “normal wear and tear,” and damage free
• Give management your forwarding address in writing
• Give proper written notice to vacate that you are moving out, if required
Most individual Leases end during the month of July and the new Leases at your next location most likely won’t begin until mid-August. This means it is your responsibility to figure out where you and your belongings will go for the 2 to 3-week gap between Leases. If you decide to change apartment communities, plan ahead for this gap in Leases. This may also be a dilemma if you decide to transfer apartments within the same community.
Apartment Lingo/Terminology
• ½ BA or ½ BTH: Half Bathroom or Bathroom with no shower/bathtub
• 3/2/2: 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 2-car garage. In a house or apartment ad, when you see two or three numbers separated by slashes, the first number always indicates the number of bedrooms; the second number is the number of bathrooms; and the third number (if there is one) indicates how many cars will fit into the garage.
• A/C or HVAC: Air conditioning and heat or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
• Amenities: The “perks” or “extras” available at some communities. These items are offered to residents, some examples include a fitness center, basketball court, computer lab, study room, swimming pool, dog park, outdoor kitchens, etc.
• BA or BTH: Bathroom
• BR or BDR: Bedroom
• Concession/Discount/Special: A “special” rate, offer, gift card, or physical item that is awarded to you for applying and/or signing a Lease. For example, waived application and signing fees, a $200 gift card issued after moving in, or a physical item like a free Keurig. Make sure you fulfill your Lease, sometimes specials will have stipulations attached like having to pay rent on time, and not getting any fines. Failure to follow the specifications could lead to you having to pay back the special/concession or the value of the gift.
• Conventional Housing: One Lease is signed for the entire apartment/home (not individually – Huntsville area examples: University Club, Cornerstone, and Woodhollow Apartments). For instance, 3 individuals sign one Lease together for a 3-bedroom apartment. Roommate A moves out before the end of the Lease term, leaving roommates B and C financially responsible for the roommate A’s rent and utilities.
• Dep: Deposit or Security Deposit (the amount depends on the property; it can range from one month’s rental installment on up). The security deposit is required to make sure that you pay for any damage done while you live on premises. If you leave the property the way you find it (minus “normal wear and tear”), after your Lease is finished, you should be refunded the money if you don’t owe anything.
• First/Last: First and/or last month’s rent is sometimes required as part of the security deposit.
• Fully Furnished: The apartment’s common areas will be fully furnished, normally with a couch, coffee and/or side tables, kitchen and laundry appliances, and dining furniture. Bedrooms typically come with a bed, dresser, and desk. Some communities even provide a flat screen TV in the common area, with the complimentary cable and sometimes Wi-Fi.
• Guarantor/Co-Signer: A financial term describing an individual who promises to pay a borrower’s debt if the borrower defaults on his or her Lease obligation. If you are not able to pay your rent, it becomes the responsibility of the Guarantor, which is usually a parent, guardian, or close relative/friend.
• Lease by the bed/Individual Leasing “Student Housing/Student Living Communities”: Each roommate within a single unit signs their own Lease/Housing Contract. Each are separately liable for their portion of the rent and not the entire unit. If two people share a 2-bedroom and one roommate decides to break the Lease, the roommate left is not financially responsible and does not have to find a sublease or relet.
• Lease Term: The length of the Lease. 5, 6, 9, 10, 12-month Leases, or month-to month (MTM) Leases. Always make sure you understand the length of time the agreement is for. Keep in mind the Lease end date if you are moving or transferring units at the end of a Lease term. Usually there is a 2 to 3-week gap between the Lease ending date and the new Lease start date. Make sure you have made plans to store your personal belongings as well as secured a place to stay during this lapse between Leases.
• Notice to Vacate: Some properties require an advanced written notice from you to indicate that you will be moving out at the end of the Lease term. Find out if your community has this policy and how much notice is required. Normally it is a 30 or 60-day requirement.
• Planned Social/Resident Events: Most off campus “student living” communities provide monthly, even weekly events. These functions provide residents a chance to break away from the normal day-to-day campus and work life to get out and mingle their neighbors and leasing staff. Some events to look forward to include: Grocery Bingo, Breakfast on the Go, Wing Wednesday, Cooking Classes, Free Food Friday, Weiner Wednesday, Budgeting 101, Resume Building, etc. These activities are a great way to relieve stress and build a positive living experience.
• Reletting: Having a new resident apply and sign a brand-new lease for your apartment (or room). This process releases you from all your contractual obligations as a renter of that apartment (or room). Your apartment community will do what they can to find a person to relet your space if you need to leave, but it is ultimately up
to you as they can’t promise when or if they will find a replacement. All the while you (and your Guarantor/Co-Signer) are still financially responsible for rent and utilities until someone suitable moves in or the Lease ends (which ever happens first). There is also normally a fee to go through the reletting process.
• Rent/Installment Due Date: What is the amount of your monthly rent/installment? What is the due date and is there a grace period? When do late fees begin? How much are the late fees?
• Roommate Matching: Most “student living” communities can provide roommate matching programs, just ask the staff.
• Rules & Regulations: The majority of communities have a specific set of policies for you and your guest to follow, always ask for a copy.
• Sq. ft.: Square feet. The size of apartments and houses is usually given in square feet. One (1) square foot equals 0.0 square meters; 1 square meter equals 10.76 square feet. A simple Google search will convert square feet to square meters for you.
• Subletting: Often referred to as a subleasing, a contract in which a tenant rents out their apartment to another individual while the name on the Lease is that of the original tenant. The new tenant is referred to as the sublessee and the original tenant the sublessor. Check your Lease to see if subleasing is allowed, if you don’t see it, ask your leasing staff and have them put it in writing for you.
• Utility cap: This is a utility allowance and is normally provided on a per bedroom basis in “student living”. The standard is between $25 - $50 per month. If there are any overages, they will be divided equally provided that all roommates had taken possession of the unit for that billing cycle. This is as good as it gets to “All Bills Paid.”
• Util: Utilities – water, sewer, gas, trash, cable, electricity, wi-fi, etc.
• W/D: Washer/dryer.
• W/D Conn: Washer/Dryer Connections (the hook ups are provided, not the machines).
Types of Housing
• Apartment: An apartment is a rented individual dwelling unit within a building consisting of a room or set of rooms. Most apartments are part of communities/properties, although you may find an occasional individual apartment over a garage or a separate part of a house for rent. Some apartments are unfurnished (especially in conventional housing) but most communities that Lease by the room are furnished (ask about options on removing furniture if you have your own). Apartments range in number of bedrooms from efficiencies (one room with a combined living area, bedroom, and kitchen, the bathroom is usually the only other room in the unit) on up to 5-bedrooms. Sizes range from 350 square feet to well over 1,900 square feet. An apartment may have a porch, patio, or balcony but usually that is the only “private outdoor” space. Most communities are 3-4 stories high with a door that opens directly to the outside. Grounds are normally shared around the community. Amenities may include a pool, volleyball and/or basketball court, pet park, tanning, and fitness center. Apartment communities generally have 12-month Leases, although some (student properties) will offer semester or academic Leases terms for a premium; conventional may offer 6 or 9-month Leases. Some conventional communities may allow tenants to go month-to month, but again there is usually a charge for this and may only be available as an extension on a Lease.
• Condominium: An apartment that is owned by an individual, rather than rented. In Texas, for an apartment unit to be eligible to be sold as a condominium, it must meet special building codes, such as the presence and thickness of firewalls, etc.
• Duplex: Two housing units that share a common wall but are freestanding otherwise (think of two houses joined). Each unit has a separate entrance. They may be one or two-story. Often, there is a small shared yard and sometimes the landlord lives in one unit and rents the other out.
• Fourplex: Four housing units that share common walls but are freestanding otherwise. This is normally two units on the first story and two on the second story.
• Hotel or Motel: If you are only going to stay for a few days or one or two weeks, you may wish to stay at a hotel or motel. They usually charge by the night, but you may be able to find some that offer weekly rates. Per-night charges vary from location to location and depends on the time of year. At minimum, hotels normally offer a maid service. The SHSU University Hotel is located on campus which can be accessed through their website at www.shsuhotel.org.
• House: A freestanding unit with no shared walls. It usually comes with a yard, a driveway and sometimes a garage. Houses are mainly owned by one person who may or may not live there but there are some available to be rented.
• Mid-rise apartment: This is an apartment located in a building that typically has more than four (4) floors but less than twelve (12). You will almost always find an elevator for added convenience along with a stair option. There is usually no landscaping around the building, some have balconies; others do not. Mid-rises are often more expensive than the typical apartment.
• Townhouse: This is frequently a two or three-story unit that shares at least one wall with a similar unit. It may have a very small yard, or there may only be a porch or patio. Townhouses may be owned by an individual (like a condominium) or rented from an apartment community (like an apartment). In Texas, to be called a townhouse, a unit must meet special building codes.
Additional Resource Contact List
SHSU Student Legal & Mediation Services
936.294.1717
slms@shsu.edu
Lowman Student Center 327
Huntsville, TX 77340
SHSU Off Campus Living Coordinator
936.294.1762
akizzee@shsu.edu
Residence Life Office
910 Bearkat Blvd
Huntsville, TX 77340
Water/Wastewater/Trash Billing
Connect & Disconnect Services
936.291.5431
huntsvilletx.gov/300/Utility-Billing
1212 Avenue M
Huntsville, TX 77340
Public Works/Street/Drainage
936.294.5707
huntsvilletx.gov/275/Public-Works
448 Highway 75N
Huntsville, TX 77320
City of Huntsville Animal Control
936.291.5400
huntsvilletx.gov
1212 Avenue M
Huntsville, TX 77340
SHSU University Police
936.294.1800
shsu.edu/police
2424 Sam Houston Avenue
Huntsville, TX 77340
936.294.5480 (Mon – Fri; 7 am -4pm)
936.435.8001 (after hours)
Huntsville Police Non-Emergency
936.291.5480
Crime Stoppers
936.294.9494
walkercounty.crimestoppersweb.com
Emergency
Entergy (power line repair/power failure) 911
1.800.ENTERGY (3683749)
entergy-texas.com
Texas Apartment Association
(979) 260-9842
taa.org
SHSU University Hotel
936.291.2151
shsuhotel.org
1610 Bobby K Marks Drive
Huntsville, TX 77341
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