Housing Guide 2023

The Holly: elevating student living with unmatched amenities

For students at Texas Tech, finding the perfect balance between academics and relaxation is crucial.

Nestled just minutes away from the Tech campus, The Holly is more than just a student housing property; it's a vibrant community that offers the best amenities to students, ensuring they have everything they need for a successful college experience. With its state-of-theart facilities and diverse floorplan options, The Holly stands as the ideal destination for modern student living. The Holly's Amenities

• 24-Hour Gym: The Holly believes in promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for its residents.

Their 24-hour fitness center is equipped with top-notch exercise equipment, making it convenient for students to squeeze in a workout at any time, whether it's before class or in the middle of the night.

• Starbucks Coffee Bar: Need a caffeine fix before a long study session? The Holly has you covered with its very own Starbucks coffee bar. Enjoy your favorite brew right at home, eliminating the need for those early morning trips to the local coffee shop.

• Library Lounge: When it's time to hit the books, The Holly offers a tranquil library lounge. It's the perfect place to concentrate on your studies or collaborate with peers on group

projects. With comfortable seating and a peaceful ambiance, academic success is just around the corner.

• Private Study Rooms: For those moments when absolute focus is required, private study rooms are available. These spaces offer a distraction-free environment, ensuring that you can make the most of your study sessions.

• Resort-style Pools: Texas summers can be scorching, and what better way to beat the heat than by taking a dip in one of The Holly's two resort-style pools? Whether you want to relax in the sun or cool off in the water, these pools provide the perfect escape.

• Sand Volleyball Court: Sports enthusiasts will ap-

preciate the sand volleyball court, where you can organize friendly matches with your fellow residents and stay active while having fun.

• Basketball Court: Basketball lovers can shoot some hoops at the on-site basketball court. It's a great way to unwind and stay active without having to leave the property.

• Package Lockers: Online shopping is a common convenience for students, and The Holly understands this. Package lockers ensure your deliveries are secure and easily accessible whenever you're ready to pick them up.

• Gated Community: Safety and security are top priorities at The Holly. The property is a gated com -

The Scarlet offers affordable student living

munity, providing peace of mind for students and their families.

Floorplan Options

The Holly offers three distinct floorplan options to cater to the diverse needs of its residents:

1. Two-bedroom units: Ideal for roommates, these units offer shared living spaces and ample room for individual comfort and privacy.

2. Three-bedroom units: Perfect for students seeking a bit more space and privacy while still enjoying the benefits of communal living.

3. Four-bedroom units: The Holly's four-bedroom units are the ultimate choice for larger groups of friends or students who prefer spacious living ar-

rangements. The Holly has redefined student housing near Tech by providing an array of amenities that enhance the college experience. Whether you're looking to break a sweat at the gym, enjoy a cup of coffee, dive into your studies or have some recreational fun, The Holly offers it all. With three different floorplans accommodating various needs, this gated community truly understands the unique requirements of students, making it the top choice for those seeking an unparalleled living experience during their college years. Make The Holly your home away from home and elevate your time at Tech.

Whether

portation needs.

Not only are we close to campus. We are close to local businesses too. In the mood for food? We are a fiveminute walk from all local restaurants in the Overton area. Time to shop for game day? Take a 10-minute walk to Broadway and check out the local boutiques.

We pride ourselves in making a community for our residents. There is always something to enjoy at The Scarlet. Join

apartments today.

The Scarlet is only a 10-minute walk to campus or a five-minute drive. We have a bus stop conveniently located at the front of our community for your trans-

Courtesy photos of The Holly

The Holly provides spacious, state-of-the-art facilities for the convenience and comfort of its residence.

Courtesy photos of The Holly

The Holly offers two -, three - and four bedroom floor plans to best serve the needs of students.

Exploring housing options that best fit students’ needs

The journey through higher education is an exciting and transformative time in a person’s life. As college students strive for academic excellence, personal growth and new experiences, finding suitable housing becomes crucial to their overall well-being and success. This is even true for international students, who often face additional challenges when seeking accommodation in a foreign country. This article delves into housing opportunities that best cater to the needs of domestic and international college students at Texas Tech.

On-Campus Housing

For many college students, especially freshmen, on-campus housing is usually located close to academic buildings, libraries and other essential facilities, minimizing travel time and expenses which is convenient and a secure option. Tech offers various types of accommodation, including dormitories, shared apartments and even single rooms.

Living on campus fosters a sense of community, allowing students to make friends and engage in campus activities easily. However, on-campus housing is often more expensive than living off-campus in shared apartments or houses. This could strain one’s budget, especially if the amenities provided don’t justify the

higher cost.

Off-Campus Apartments

Off-campus apartments give students more independence and privacy. They offer a taste of real-world living and come in various sizes and configurations to suit different needs.

These accommodations are often more affordable than on-campus options, especially when shared among roommates. Lubbock typically has various off-campus housing options within walking or biking distance from campus, making it convenient for students to balance their academic and personal lives.

However, finding roommates that fit academically, socially and financially can be stressful.

Shared Housing & Roommates

Shared housing arrangements are a great option for students seeking affordability.

Finding compatible roommates can lead to lifelong friendships and shared responsibilities like rent and utility bills. Various online platforms help students connect with potential roommates based on shared interests, lifestyle preferences and budget considerations.

University Support for International Students

International students often encounter unique chal-

lenges when searching for housing, such as unfamiliarity with local rental processes, cultural differences and language barriers.

To address these challenges, Tech provides support services specifically for international students. These services may include housing guidance, assistance with legal and visa-related matters, and cultural integration programs. The leasing process is less stringent for locally owned apartments.

Budgeting & Financial Considerations

Affordability is a signifi-

Students create memories at Centre Suites

cant concern for college students.

When exploring housing options, students should consider their budget, including rent, utilities (gas, electricity, cable and internet), potential security deposits, renter insurance and transportation to and from TTU. Creating a spending plan can also help students calculate the maximum amount they can allocate to housing expenses without jeopardizing other essential needs such as tuition, textbooks, transportation, and groceries/food.

It’s crucial to balance cost

and quality while meeting basic needs. Furthermore, having a safety net can alleviate financial stress and prepare students for unexpected housing-related costs or emergencies.

The journey through college is enriched by the choices students make regarding their housing. The right housing option can contribute significantly to academic success, personal growth and overall well-being.

Whether living on campus, off-campus or with roommates, each choice offers unique advantages. For in-

ternational students, the university’s support becomes invaluable in navigating the complexities of securing suitable housing in the U.S.

By considering individual preferences, budget constraints, and the desire for cultural immersion, college students can find the housing solution that best fits their needs, enabling them to make the most of their higher education experience.

EDITOR’S NOTE The information contained in this article was provided by Red to Black Peer Financial Coaching.

Student Legal Services provides free lease reviews

Moving into a new apartment or bidding farewell to an old one is both exciting and stressful for students. Student Legal Services at Texas Tech offers free legal advice for students hoping to make a seamless transition between living spaces and assistance to students experiencing problems with their landlord.

One of the most common problems college students face is excessive charges for damages and other fees when they move out of an apartment.

There are several things you can do to avoid being in this situation.

Read your lease before

signing and review it again before move-in paying special attention to move-in instructions. Most leases require the renter to complete a move-in and inventory form noting any pre-existing damages. It is important to complete this form in the timeline outlined in your lease agreement.

Renters should be very detailed and write down any damage observed no matter how small. Examples of issues that should be noted on a move-in form: paint chips or scuffs on walls, stains or blemishes in carpet, damage to door frames and windowsills, broken blinds, mold, water

damage, pests and even odors.

If you are renting a furnished unit, make sure to check inside drawers and look at both sides of the mattress for stains and other problems, and it is also a good idea to move furniture to check for hidden stains and damage to the floor.

In addition to noting all damages on move-in paperwork, take pictures and video to document the condition of your new apartment. These actions provide the best protection from inaccurate charges when you move out.

It is important to use the inventory form provided by your landlord because most

leases state that anything not noted on this specific form is considered to be in good condition — meaning you could be charged for damages caused by a previous renter if you do not describe them on the correct form and turn the form in on time.

Many renters are surprised to learn that most leases do not require landlords to repair damages noted on a move-in form unless the renter submits a separate written request for repair. Another common pitfall is that move-in forms are often lost or misplaced by landlords during the course of the lease, so it is important to

save a copy of your move-in form before turning it in.

Renters who think they will not receive a bill for damages at move-out because they are leaving the apartment in better condition than they found it are often in for a surprise.

Most Texas leases require the renter to thoroughly clean, including baseboards and fans, before they move out regardless of the condition at move-in. Renters should carefully read their lease, follow all move-out instructions, and take pictures and videos of their apartment for documentation in case they need to dispute inaccurate charges

on their move-out statement. Student Legal Services provides free lease reviews to current Tech students. The best time to review a lease with one of our attorneys is before it is signed, but students who already signed a lease also benefit from reviewing it to better understand their rights and obligations.

Lease review appointments may be scheduled by calling our office at 806-742-3289.

EDITOR’S NOTE The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.

amazing amenities that’ll have you excited to spend the weekend

INVOLVEMENT

at home. Hang out with friends in our sparkling pool or in game room after a study session in our study center complete with computers and printing. Other amenities include hot tub; on-site maintenance; TV lounge; dog park; gas grills; high-speed internet; clubhouse; and a state-of-theart fitness center. Centre Suites offers petfriendly studio, one-, two and three-bedroom apartments. Furniture and renovated apartments are available. Moving in has never been easier. Here at Centre Suites, you can walk into your apartment for the first time and know the hard part is already done -- your lights are already on, your modern appliances are ready for use. The Lubbock community is full of life and provides the modern conveniences needed for the college lifestyle. The Centre at Overton Park is at the heart of it all. Our community, surrounded by restaurants, shopping and Jones AT&T Stadium, is waiting to welcome you home. Come by for a visit or call us at 806747-7700.

Friday Housing Fair kicks off TTPA events

The Texas Tech Parents Association is partnering with The Daily Toreador to host the 2023 Housing Fair from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29, in the Student Union Building courtyard as a part of the university’s Family Weekend activities.

Linda Swindling, TTPA president, said off-campus housing complexes have been invited to showcase their properties to parents and students for the upcoming academic year.

“Families can see whether off-campus or on-campus makes more sense for next year. This is an opportunity to preview many apartment communities in one room,” Swindling said. “They can also make an appointment to view the properties, maybe the next day.”

Many properties begin offering pre-leasing specials in November, said Dawn Zuerker, advertising manager for The DT.

“On-campus housing can fill quickly for some of the

more popular complexes,” she said. “We encourage students to do their research before they feel pressured to sign anything.”

Student Legal Services and Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE) also plan to host booths at the Housing Fair. There, students and their families can talk with Student Legal Services to understand the legal language in leases before signing. RISE will be on hand to detail the many resources the department provides for Tech students.

This year’s Housing Fair will include representatives of the following Lubbock housing options: The Scarlet, The Holly, Centre Suites at Overton Park, ULofts, The Carlton House and Raiders Walk.

Students and parents need not be registered for the TTPA’s Family Weekend events to attend the housing fair, Zuerker said. The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about securing student housing in Lubbock.

“We hope this event will be a great resource for any student or family who wants to get in-person information about what various properties have to offer their residents,” she said.

“Many of the questions our TTPA members ask with regard to housing can be answered at this event,” Swindling said. “The housing fair is designed to alleviate some pressure and anxiety involved in choosing next year’s living arrangements.”

TTPA Facebook pages also feature postings from families that provide insight into good and bad experiences of renting locally, she said.

“It can be worth your time to perform a few searches and ask questions to determine the best place for your student to live,” Swindling said. “You should seek information about what other students and families say about the complexes. Our family found that not all apartment complexes were created equal. Management companies and apartment services can vary

greatly.”

The organization not only co-hosts the housing fair, but also provides resources to Red Raider families.

“TTPA supports family engagement and student success. We have the largest campus tailgate the day of the Family Weekend game, parking passes, discounted football tickets and T-shirts,” Swindling said. “TTPA also provides scholarships, education, webinars and events. We offer community-based events, as well. TTPA has parent ambassadors and volunteers all over the nation including Texas, Colorado, New

Mexico and California. We are parents helping parents and families helping families.

“When your student is a Red Raider,” she said, “you are family.”

Visit the www.TexasTechParents.org website to see the Family Weekend page as well as the organization’s member benefits.

The Daily Toreador to host the 2023 Housing Fair from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29, in the Student Union Building courtyard as a part of the university’s Family Weekend activities.

Linda Swindling, TTPA president, said off-campus

If you have a student at Texas Tech, you are a member of our Red Raider family. We offer ways to help you stay informed, be connected and remain an active part of your student’s success.

housing complexes have been invited to showcase their properties to parents and students for the upcoming academic year.

“Families can see whether off-campus or on-campus makes more sense for next year. This is an opportunity to preview many apartment communities in one room,” Swindling said. “They can also make an appointment to view the properties, maybe the next day.”

Many properties begin offering pre-leasing specials in November, said Dawn Zuerker, advertising manager for The DT.

The Texas Tech Parents Association supports parent and family engagement with your students throughout their college experience. Membership Benefits include: •

FILE PHOTO/The Daily Toreador

Dozens of people take advantage of the October 2022 Housing Fair hosted in the Student Union Building. Sponsored by the Texas Tech Parents Association and The Daily Toreador, the event will be repeated this year from 5:30-8 p.m. Friday in the SUB’s indoor courtyard (adjacent to the Ballroom).

Courtesy photo

The Centre Suites apartment complex is located on the corner of Glenna Goodacre Boulevard and Ave. X, offering various amenities such as a study room, hot tub, dog park and more.