SeSSion Schedule Cardinal Court September 3–5
Watterson Towers September 8–10
East Campus September 15–18
West Campus September 22–24
off-campuS
101
You have questions. We have ansWers. Before you do anything, attend one of these sessions! Get important information about apartment hunting, signing a lease, and more. visit DeanofStudents.IllinoisState.edu for a schedule of all sessions. If you need a special accommodation to fully participate in this program/event, please contact Student and Community Outreach at (309) 438-5951. Please allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation. An equal opportunity/affirmative action university encouraging diversity University Marketing
and
CoMMUniCations
14-0324
utilities? Lease? roommates? rent? Location?
Hello!
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 01
The process of finding an apartment and getting accustomed to apartment life isn’t an easy or straightforward one. This is exactly why I have designed the cover in the format of a maze. There are so many factors, decisions and steps that go into finding “the perfect apartment” that you usually end up backtracking and trying again. However, with commitment and persistence, the result is well worth the hardship. While the maze is simply a metaphor for the rollercoaster ride that is apartment searching and apartment life, I sincerely hope that Birdhouse Rentals can make your ride a little less bumpy. Brooks Bankord Advertising Production Manager
Even though most of the stressors are already hitting me, I am grateful that I’m finally done dealing with open leasing. After struggling both my sophomore and junior years to figure out my housing situation, I finally have a break. But the open leasing process does not have to be difficult. I struggled mostly with figuring out roommates, but other factors to consider include budget, location, and amenities. Most of you have probably already thought of these aspects of off-campus living, but may have forgotten other important issues. What do you do if you need to find someone to sublease your apartment? Should you be a sublet instead of renting something for an entire year? Is it worth having a car on campus? How can grocery shopping and cooking be made easier for you if you aren’t used to do doing these? This guide aims to help you figure out all of these situations that can arise when transitioning from on-campus to off-campus living. Advice from current upperclassmen, articles featuring tips from realty companies, and a quiz about which off-campus housing option is best for you fill the pages of this year’s Rental Guide. Finding housing is always going to be stressful, but there’s no reason it should consume your life for a couple of weeks prior to open leasing! Grace Johnson Supplement Editor
02 THE VIDETTE
Forget something? Readers submitted items they needed but did not remember when moving off campus
Shower Curtain
Plunger (Get one before you need one!)
Shower Rod and Rings
Microwave (If it does not already come with the apartment)
Pizza Cutter
Can Opener Printer
Decks of Playing Cards
Vacuum
Toaster
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 03
WE WANT
YOU!
LEASE NOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR
LOWEST RATES OF THE YEAR! ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED PRIVATE BATHROOMS PET FRIENDLY WALKING DISTANCE TO ISU
TheEdgeOnHovey.com
PARKING SPOT FOR EACH RESIDENT
800 WEST HOVEY AVENUE, STE 100 | NORMAL, IL 61761
FULLY FURNISHED W/ FLAT SCREEN TVS & WASHER/DRYER IN EVERY UNIT
At the corner of Main and Hovey
309.454.5599
04 THE VIDETTE
Off-Campus Advice
Opinions, via social media, from readers about living in houses or apartments
”If you get an apartment near the train tracks, be prepared to hear a lingering train horn every Saturday and/or Sunday morning. Early morning. They like to lay on that horn.”
”Start early.”
”Find out who you want to live with and take the day to go wait in line and get where you want.”
”Get renter’s insurance.” ”Go to that apartment thing that UHS puts on.”
”The cheapest isn’t necessarily worth it... Splurge a little more for a decent and clean place!”
”Try to inquire about independently owned either in the paper or on craigslist.”
”Don’t overpay!”
”Don’t get a house unless you want the hassle of dealing with utilities.” ”Rent a place that has utilities included! It may be tempting with lower rent, but the utilities are a pain in the butt to deal with. Being responsible for the bills and splitting it up/ getting money from everyone is always a hassle. So much nicer to just have one bill to pay a month!”
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 05
s s e r d d a w e n a d n u o f s a h e l Sty
fts also o l bath t .5 a l 4 f / m o m o o r 4 bed ome loft bedro 1, 2, and 4 townh
A few REASONS to live at 10 |10
available.
1. Stylish & luxurious new community 2. Parking for ALL residents! No stack parking! 3. Fitness center & clubhouse on the property 4. All utilities included plus free High Speed Internet & Cable TV 5. Superior safety features with contracted officers, cameras, & controlled access 6. Countless amenities & features...Plus elevator, flat panel HDTVs, etc. 7. A lot of space for outdoor fun 8. Perfect location–close to campus. Near intersection of Hovey & Main
STARTS LEASING 3 9/25/1 T! ACT FAS
VIRTUAL TOURS · COLOR FLOOR PLANS ·TESTIMONIALS · AND MUCH MORE AWARD WINNING PROPERTIES · WALKING DISTANCE TO CAMPUS
06 THE VIDETTE
Meredith’s
Apartment Management, Inc. W h e r e Q u a l i t y M e e t s C o n v e n i e n c e 56 c o m m u t e s t o c a m p u s . 56 h i g h - p r e s s u r e s a l e s t a c t i c s . 56 g i m m i c k s . M e r e d i t h ’ s P r o p e r t i e s t a k e s P R I D E i n o u r a p a r t m e n t s & o f f e r s U N P A R A L L E L E D s e r v i c e t o e a c h o f o u r t e n a n t s . W e h a v e a l l t h e a m e n i t i e s y o u w a n t a n d t h e l o c a t i o n s t h a t y o u n e e d . • Q u a l i t y F u r n i s h i n g s • O n - s i t e P a r k i n g A v a i l a b l e , n o s t a c k e d p a r k i n g • F r e e H i g h - S p e e d I n t e r n e t • H u g e 1 , 2 , 3 , a n d 4 B e d r o o m A p a r t m e n t s • S e c u r e d , W e l l - M a i n t a i n e d P r o p e r t i e s i n P r i m e L o c a t i o n s • A S h o r t W a l k f r o m U p t o w n N o r m a l , S t e v e n s o n H a l l , & M i l n e r L i b r a r y • O n s i t e l a u n d r y
P a t r i o t M a n o r T o w n h o m e s • P a t r i o t M a n o r T o w n h o m e s , 6 0 1 B r o a d w a y A v e n u e • N e w C o n s t r u c t i o n , A v a i l a b l e B e g i n n i n g i n J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4 • I n c l u d e s a 5 0 o r 6 0 I n c h F l a t S c r e e n T e l e v i s i o n • P r i v a t e B a t h r o o m s f o r E a c h T e n a n t a n d a n A d d i t i o n a l B o n u s � B a t h r o o m • F r e e I n t e r n e t • C o v e r e d O n - s i t e P a r k i n g • S e c u r e d B u i l d i n g w i t h C a m e r a s & M e r e d i t h ’ s Q u a l i t y M a i n t e n a n c e T e a m • H i g h - E n d F u r n i s h i n g s I n c l u d e L e a t h e r S o f a a n d C h a i r / L o v e s e a t ,
C o f f e e a n d E n d T a b l e s , Q u e e n S i z e d B e d s , a n d C o m p u t e r D e s k s • F e a t u r e s S t a i n l e s s S t e e l A p p l i a n c e s , G r a n i t e C o u n t e r T o p s ,
T i l e B a c k s p l a s h e s , a n d N u m e r o u s O t h e r U p g r a d e s • 3 a n d 4 B e d r o o m A p a r t m e n t s A v a i l a b l e f o r J a n u a r y - M a y 2 0 1 4
a n d f o r J u n e 2 0 1 4 - M a y 2 0 1 5 • P r i v a t e w a s h e r a n d d r y e r
N o w l e a s i n g f o r 2 0 1 4 !
C a l l t o s c h e d u l e y o u r s h o w i n g T O D A Y ! P | 3 0 9 . 4 5 4 . 4 1 0 0 F | 3 0 9 . 4 5 4 . 4 1 0 1 E | M e r e d i t h @ M e r e d i t h s P r o p e r t i e s . c o m
w w w . M e r e d i t h s P r o p e r t i e s . c o m
2 0 3 N o r t h P r o s p e c t R o a d , S u i t e 2 0 0 , B l o o m i n g t o n , I l l i n o i s 6 1 7 0 4
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 07
Lease logic: tips from rental companies Melanie Lowe Senior Staff Writer
The college experience often introduces us to a variety of new encounters, and signing a lease is no exception. But before you put pen to paper and sign for that desirable pad, it’s important to do your research and understand a thing or two about residential contracts. First things first, know exactly what you’re signing for so that there are no surprises come movein day. “You want to make sure that you have seen the exact unit you’re signing for, rather than just looking at a model unit. If there are changes that need to be made to your unit, make sure that they are clearly stated in the contract,” Marc Elder, General Manager of Sami, said. Once you feel comfortable with the idea of supplying your signature, read over the lease carefully, and take your time comprehending all of the details. If there is something stated that you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Realtor employees are typically happy to help explain factors that may seem questionable or unclear. According to Elder, you can even seek outside help if needed. “I recommend talking to the ISU student attorney if you don’t understand something that is written on the lease,” Elder said.
Fortunately, a number of realtor companies are now supplying a copy of their lease online so that prospective residents can review it whenever they feel the need to. “Nowadays, students are so sophisticated, and they always visit company’s websites to do some navigating. We have our lease documents right on our website to pull up at any time,” Ulises Napoles, Leasing & Marketing Manager at First Site, said. According to Napoles, a number of First Site’s leasers are students coming straight from the dorms. To accommodate everyone, they supply a step-bystep process for those who have never dealt with a lease before. So before you jot down your John Hancock, make sure you’re aware of what you’re signing for, as well as the responsibilities that will follow.
08 THE VIDETTE
V
Pros of being a sublet
1.
Tyrianna Jones Vidette Staff Writer
Short-term leasing Many students decide to sublet so they do not have to commit to traditional one year leases. “It is great because you don’t have to be there and the sublet does,” senior Pariss Knight said. Picking up someone else’s lease is a great way to still get the apartment living experience without the full commitment.
2. No background or credit checks Anytime a person makes a larger purchase, whether it is for an apartment or car, there are usually background or credit checks. With subletting, the original tenant is probably more accepting and mainly focused on finding someone who is just willing to rent the apartment out; therefore, background checks are not a priority. 4.
T h e V id e t t e : N O W in FU N S I Z E !
Helping watch over the apartment Being a sublet can benefit everyone involved in the agreement. The original tenant can enjoy being away rent-free while having someone look after their apartment. The sublet, on the other hand, can enjoy the amenities and will be doing a good deed.
3. Fewer leasing responsibilities A sublet’s name is not on the original apartment lease and although there might be a contract or two to sign, the original tenant is still primarily responsible for what happens to the apartment. However, sublets should still treat the apartment as if it was their own and take accountability for damages, etc. 5. Great experience if done right Both subletting and being a sublet can be a great experience if the people involved know what they are doing. Doing research on the apartment, the area and getting to know the roommate(s) beforehand will almost always guarantee a smooth rental experience.
WorshipDirectory ClearView Church
1503 E College Ave. Normal, IL
Across from Target
(309) 451-8439 www.clearview-church.org Service Time: 9:15 & 11:15 Need a ride to church? Contact rides@clearview-church.org “Rides for students by students”
Jacob’s Well Community Church 304 Jersey Ave. Normal, IL Sunday Morning Service at 10:30am Wednesday Prayer Service at 7:00pm (309) 830-3795 www.thejake.cc
If you would like to be featured in our Worship Directory, please contact Charles Blount at (217) 972-1879
Any Guest Check of $25.00 or More
Get $5 OFF
401 N. Veteran’s Pkwy. (Suite 7 & 8) (Next to CUB Foods)
BLOOMINGTON 309.663.1300
We accept large parties. Call for reservations & discount. M-Th 11-2:30 & 4-9:30 Friday 11-2:30 & 4-10:30 Sat 11am-10:30pm All Day Dinner Sunday 12-9:30
Dine-in & Dinner Only. One coupon per check. Not valid with other discounts, specials or on Holidays. Must present coupon. Exp. 9.30.14 BEFORE TAX. KOBE STEAKHOUSE 309.663.1300
Any Guest Check of $60.00 or More
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Dine-in & Dinner Only. One coupon per check. Not valid with other discounts, specials or on Holidays. Must present coupon. Exp. 9.30.14 BEFORE TAX. KOBE STEAKHOUSE 309.663.1300
Walk-In’s & Take-Out . Reservations Welcome . Full Bar
S
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 09
Cons of being a sublet Tyrianna Jones Vidette Staff Writer
1.
No choice in roommates Taking over someone else’s apartment means having to live with their roommates as well. Not knowing the roommates can have consequences. “When I moved in [my roommate] smoked pot and it was bad because I have asthma,” one ISU student said. Always get to know roommates prior to move in. 2. Complicated finding someone to sublet One problem with deciding to become a sublet is not having anyone to 3. Location and room may not be ideal sublet for. Tenants are usually committed to their leases and there are Since most apartments are already rented out not many people who suddenly decide to leave their apartment or have during the year, a sublet may not have many the ability to do so. There are times where it can work out but deciding choices in location or style. Depending on how to sublet should only be done under certain circumstances. many people decide to rent out their place, the whole process of choosing can either be really 4. Consequences for illegal subletting easy or difficult but in the end a sublet has to be Although there are landlords who allow it, subletting able to settle with a certain place. is still looked down upon by a lot of people. If there is a landlord that does not allow subletting and it is 5. Hasty moves can cause issues done anyway then this could lead to eviction and Being a sublet does have its benefits but overall there are more bad other legal problems. If there are any uncertainties experiences than good. If being a sublet is an option then there then it is best not to sublet. should be extensive research and nothing should be done too quickly. Many students do not recommend subletting. It is best to either lease directly from a landlord or choose other living options.
CLASS ACT REALTY Now Renting for
Spring 2014 and Summer/Fall/Spring 2014-2015!!
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C l a s s A c t R e a l t y 3 0 9 . 4 5 4 . 2 9 6 0 c l a s s a c t r e a l t y . c o m
F l e x i b l e U t i l i t i e s I n c l u d e d F l e x i b l e P a y m e n t O p t i o n s F l e x i b l e A p a r t m e n t S h o w i n g s
10 THE VIDETTE
Beef up your college
One of the biggest adjustments going from dorm life to apartment life is cooking. Some of you may choose off-campus meal plans, but in general, you will have to prepare most of your own food. This can be challenging when figuring out what to prepare while trying to be cost-effective. The key to creating delicious, inexpensive meals is to learn multiple recipes using the many of the same ingredients, giving you the ability to stock up on the basics and go from there. Ground beef is an essential that can be used for much more than hamburgers. Here are a few quick, easy recipes that will make your mouths water and your wallets full!
Beef and Bean Chili Verde Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 Tbl chili powder Âź tsp cayenne pepper 16 oz green salsa Âź cup water 15 oz black beans, rinsed 1 cup Mexican cheese Directions: Cook beef and bell pepper in large saucepan over medium heat, crumbling the meat with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Add chili powder and cayenne pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 15 seconds. Stir in salsa and water; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in beans and cook until heated through, about 1 minute. Sprinkle cheese on top and serve.
Recipes adapted from eatingwell.com. Compiled by Grace Johnson
Do you think the realty companies selling student leasing to ISU students are ripping students off? answer at
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 11
cuisine with saucy classics Baked Pasta and Beef Ingredients: 1/2 pound ground beef 8 oz tomato sauce 4 oz pasta of choice 3 cups mozzarella cheese Grated Parmesan cheese
Directions: Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Cook beef in a saucepan over medium heat, crumbling the meat until browned. Drain to remove excess grease. Follow instructions on pasta box to boil. Mix beef and tomato sauce. Mix pasta and sauce mix in baking dish. Top with cheese. Bake dish in oven until the cheese is golden. Remove from oven. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve.
REDBIRD APARTMENTS 200 N LINDEN 309.454.4888 REDBIRDAPTS.COM
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2 BEDROOM FOR 2: $360 - $565/month Hovey - Hester - Irving - Locust - Willow
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All prices are per person, per month based on 12 equal installments. Payments are due April 1, 2014 to March 1, 2015 $50.00 Security Deposit per Person Co-Ed Rental Arrangements Available NDEN 301 N. LI M 4 BEDROO
12 THE VIDETTE
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 13
Follow us
14 THE VIDETTE
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 15
Getting more bang for your buck Kellie Flaherty News Editor
Making the transition from living in the residence halls to an apartment or house off campus offers ample benefits to ISU students. However, the lack of a meal plan means buying groceries, which leaves many students’ wallets feeling lighter. Although grocery shopping may seem overwhelming at first, it is possible to shop on a dime if the proper steps are taken. Abbie O’Ryan, junior public relations major, said the best way she knows how to save money while grocery shopping is to make several laps around the store to ensure the best value of each item. “I’ve always taken notice of my mom’s shopping habits, so I make sure I’m buying the food that is on sale or the cheapest brand,” O’Ryan said. Coupons and advertisements in local newspapers or magazines are other vital options that students living in off-campus housing should take advantage of. “So far this year, I’ve looked at the ads in the newspaper at home or at Walmart,” Ally Palhegyi, junior biology major, said. “My parents cut out a bunch of coupons for me to use while I was at home for Labor Day weekend.” Palhegyi said it is also a good idea to share certain food products with roommates including milk, butter, coffee creamer and bread. “You should minimize your snacks so you’re not wasting money on useless food,” Sara Gulino, junior elementary education major said. It is important for students to go to the grocery store on a full stomach to avoid over shopping, Gulino added. Another way to save your wallet is buying groceries in bulk. Gulino said she shops at Costco each time she goes home because she is able to buy many products in bulk. She recommended stocking up on certain items with extended expiration dates like
Photo by Vivianne Velazquez
mac and cheese, frozen pizzas, frozen chicken breasts and other canned or boxed foo. “You should try to set a limit on how many times you go to the store because when you go too many times for just one item you’ll end up buying more than you need,” Palhegyi explained. Upperclassmen living off-campus should be able to get the most out of their money if they follow the advice provided by fellow roommates. Grocery stores in the Bloomington-Normal area include Kroger, Walmart, Schnucks, Jewel-Osco and Meijer.
16 THE VIDETTE
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 17
Wheels and deals: the true cost of
having a car on campus Matt Johnson Reporter
The idea of having a car in college conjures the image of freedom and flexibility, but it can also bring a long list of unexpected problems. Some of the spots on campus a person can park include metered spaces, pay lots, red reserved spaces, commuter surface green lots, red reserved zones, green reserved zones, residence hall student storage (blue) lots, motorcycle/moped parking and visitor parking. The use of any posted parking facilities requires the purchase and display of an appropriate parking permit, unless displayed otherwise such as a meter space. If a person wishes to buy a permit the prices can range for a whole year as high as $409. A commuter permit will cost $85 for a year. Another cost associated with having a car according to the Office of Parking and Transportation is ISU assumes no responsibility or liability for loss or damage to any vehicle. ISU does not assume any personal liability in connection with its parking program. As for students living off-campus, most
apartment complexes will offer a parking spot built into your lease or housing contract. A few of the leasing companies who do this practice are the Flats and the Edge. A person should check the lease for designated parking spaces. If a leasing company does not offer a parking space, a student would then have to talk with the Office Parking and Transportation for a permit as an additional cost to the already existing apartment lease. The time and energy it takes to find an empty spot in a lot can be troublesome too. Standard maintenance is another factor to consider with having a car. Oil changes and 50,000 mile tune-ups are vital for the upkeep of a vehicle. Oil changes can start around $20 depending on if a person can change their own oil. “The beneficial freedom of having a car is worth the cost when you are searching for future opportunities,� Tom Hornacek, junior marketing major, said. When deciding to have a car on campus it is important to understand the pros and cons involved with this process.
18 THE VIDETTE
6
5
7
2
4 1
3
8
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 19
Reduce, reuse, recycle here in Normal, IL
1
Chiddix Junior High School/Anderson Park 300 S. Walnut
5
Normal West High School 501 N. Parkside
2
ISU Parking Lot 100 N. University
6
Prairieland Grade School/Carden Park 1300 E. Raab
3
Jewel-Osco 901 S. Cottage
7
University Center 1101 N. Main
4
Normal Tax Assessor’s Parking Lot 304 E. Mulberry
8
Wal-Mart 300 Greenbriar
Delivery • Carry-out • Catering • Dine-in
Home of the Famous Gondola™
407 S. Main, Normal, IL 309.452.4436 avantisnormal.com 3302 E. Empire, Bloomington, IL 309.662.4436 avantisbloomington.com /AvantisBN
20 THE VIDETTE
Cats, dogs, petcera
Julia Evelsizer Features Editor
L
iving on your own, away from home has its perks, but after the excitement of having your own place wears off, it can get a little lonely. Your roommate may never be home, all of your friends are busy with homework, and your beloved childhood pet is miles away at your parents’ house. While some apartments have a strict no pet policy, others do allow small pets after certain guidelines and fees. SAMI apartments only allow fish, birds, and small reptiles that are caged or in a tank. If residents do sneak pets into their apartments, they will be fined $300 and risk possible eviction. While the thought of sneaking a kitten or puppy into your apartment may be strong, it’s not worth forking over nearly a whole months rent when you get caught.
Vidette Archive
Some Young America apartments allow pets while others don’t. If you ever have the slightest bit of doubt whether your apartment allows pets or not, call the office and ask. Young America also charges a hefty fine to those who are caught with an animal in a no-pets apartment.
We’ve helped you nd the right apartment. Now, let us help you nd everything else. The Vidette | videtteonline.com | The Vidette App | The ‘Bird
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 21
If you find that you do live in an apartment where pets are allowed and you’d like to bring one into your home, be sure to meet with your landlord or leasing agent to discuss any fees or restrictions. After all fees are paid and boxes are checked, it’s time to start the search for your own little furball. If you’re new to having pets, and you don’t have much free time, it might be best to stick with a low-maintenance pet like a gold fish or hermit crab. If you’re feeling adventurous and up to the task of caring for something a little bigger, one of the best places to visit is the Humane Society of Central Illinois located on 423 Kays Dr. in Normal. Stacey Bill is an adoption councilor at HSCI. She would like students to remember that owning a pet is a huge responsibility. “Consider the whole
picture,” said Bill. “Think about the animals life span and the cost of caring for it. Also, lay some ground rules with your room mates so the pet is disciplined, rewarded, and fed the same way by everyone.” Some animals need more attention than others, and sometimes a college student’s busy schedule doesn’t have room for pet care. “Do some research on what pet would be the best match for you,” said Bill. “And think about where you will be living in a year and if you’ll still be able to care for the pet then.” Pets are a big commitment. Remember that the average life span of an indoor cat is 16 years and for a dog it’s around 15. Also remember that if your parents bought the pet food, cleaned the litter box, or took your dog for a walk back at home, all of those tasks and expenses are now on you.
DON’T WAIT IN LINE FOR HOURS! Accepting appointments for open leasing day starting Sept. 23rd.!
22 THE VIDETTE
Quiz yourself on the options Is this your first time living off-campus? YE
S
NO
Do you know with whom you want to live next year? NO
NO
NO
YES
Do you consider yourself responsible enough to handle multiple bills?
YES
Is there a potential for you to need to change plans?
S NO
BE A SUBLET
YES
NO NO
YE
S
YE
Do you care about special features (i.e. pool)?
RENT A HOUSE
Do you have plans to study abroad, graduate early, or student teach next year?
YES
Do you have a large budget allotted?
YES
Would you consider location the most important aspect?
RENT AN APARTMENT NO One of the biggest decisions in college is deciding where to live, but a lot of you might not have considered all of the available options. Houses and apartments both have their benefits, and sometimes being a sublet is the answer, even though you might not expect it. This quiz is designed to help you make your housing decisions a little easier. Each option has an extended explanation available at videtteonline.com/housingresults. Now go figure out where your ideal place to live next year is and go you Redbirds!
BIRDHOUSE RENTALS 23
5 BEST WAYS TO FIND A SUBLET Lindsey Clark Vidette Staff Writer
One of the best parts of college for many students is leaving dorm life behind in favor of living off campus. This usually means apartments or houses for most, with one or more roommates to help split the expenses of offcampus life. But there may come a time in which you find yourself unable to commit to a full year’s lease—and you need someone else to take that lease over. Finding a sublet is not as daunting as it may seem—in fact, here are a few options you have if you end up in this position. Make use of the ILSTU public Facebook groups
1. The easiest thing you can do first is to tell your friends and
acquaintances that you are looking for a sublet. If your friends do not need a place to live themselves, they probably know someone else who does. The power of networking goes a long way.
3. “I would print flyers and hang them around campus,” Peter Hansen, senior TV production major, said. This strategy works well in several ways; the more you hang your flyers in the buildings and around campus, the more likely people are to see your information, and the closer you are to closing the deal.
4. “Young America has subleasing options available on their website,” Mackenzie Patterson, senior public relations major, said. Another option is to use http://www.mycollegesublets.com/. Obviously, this site is dedicated to finding sublets and will be able to help you find a sublet close to your area. Another website geared specifically toward ISU students is http://ilstu.uloop.com/housing/index.php/sublets. This site will help narrow down your search even more. 5. If all else fails, there is always Craigslist. Of course, use your own judgment with this one. Craigslist is full of a variety of people, so there is no such thing as being too careful.
Communities
Flexible leasing options starting at $499
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(ex. Class of 2014). In addition to other posts students make (such as job information and clubs and activities openings), many students also post and communicate with each other about apartment subleasing. These groups are a great way to find out who is looking for a sublet and who is looking to sign a lease.
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What you see is what you
FirstSiteApartments.com | 309.888.4444 LIST OF ALL COMMUNITY FEATURES. EXCEPTIONAL 3D COLOR FLOOR PLANS. RESIDENT TESTIMONIALS
24 THE VIDETTE
1 Bedroom & Studio
2 Bedrooms
Starting 1 from Bath
Under $650 917 W. Market 3 $595 1307 Roosevelt (IWU) $599 Campus Court (Studio) 309 & 311 S. Main $605 $650 to $749 101/103 W. Willow $699 602 Dry Grove $699 604 Dry Grove $715 112 W. Locust $725 Campus Court (Remodel) 309 & 311 S. Main $745 803 Franklin $754 $750 to $799 112 W. Locust $775 602 Dry Grove $775 102 E. Cypress 3 $785 701 N. Fell 3 $795 $800 & Above 304 Linden $825 406 W. Locust $870 The Colburn 602 S Kingsley $975
2 Bedrooms
Starting 1 from Bath
Starting 1 from Bath
Under $450 901 Market 3 $350 2 309 & 311Lindell $399 1505 Hancock $420 309 & 311 S. Main $435 $450 to $525 117 W. Willow $485 908 S. University $485 412 N. Main $489 608 Hester $489 602 & 604 Dry Grove $489 800 S. University $495 114 W. Locust $499 102 E. Cypress 3 $499 410 W. Vernon $499 101/103 W. Willow $509 116 W. Locust $510 98 W. Locust $510 99 W. Phoenix $510 112 W. Locust $515 109 W. Willow $515 306 Normal $519 3 701 N. Fell $525 107 W. Locust $525
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10 Pay Options - highlighted in Yellow
$526 to $549 803 Franklin $529 1 801 S. University $535 1 98 W. Cherry $549 1 304 Linden $549 1 505 Broadway $549 1.5 115 W. Locust $549 1 $550 to $599 604 Dry Grove $550 1 98 E. Locust $559 1 901 & 901.5 Hovey $585 1 303 N. University $589 1 111 W. Locust $595 1 106 W. Willow $595 2 800 S. University $599 1 202 W. Locust $599 1 410 W. Vernon $599 1 $600 & Above 105 W. Locust $615 1 406 W. Locust $670 2 The Colburn 602 S Kingsley $725 2 The Big House 607 Broadway $735 2.5
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Prices as of 8/28/13
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID DIRECT MAIL SIMPLIFIED, INC.
311 S. Main Street • Normal, IL
www.YArealty.com 309.454.2338
sing Open Lea . 25th pt Begins Se tm en t
Voted #1 Customer Service 5 Consecutive Years!
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908 N. Center 1002 N. Center 1204 N. Madison 1209 N. Madison 1007 Park 205 Seminary
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603 S. Broadway 602 S. Fell 605 S. Broadway 304 N. Fell 9 Delaine 614 N. Scholl 401 N. School 13 Delaine 409 N. School 204 W. Cypress 501 S. Broadway 505 N. Fell 206 W. Cypress 402 W. Locust 503 N. Fell 509 N. Fell 701 S. Kingsley 725 Osage 511 N. Fell 204 W. Willow 416 W. Willow 917 W. Market 3 507 N. Fell 205 W. Cypress 104 W. Willow 108 W. Phoenix 604 N. Fell 606 N. Fell
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375 450
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435 425 515 515
2014 - 2015
The Widest Selection of Student Housing in Bloomington/Normal Apartments • Suites • Townhomes • Houses
1. Sept 3rd – Sept 1 8th Renewals at 3% discount off new rates 2. Sept 20th – Sept 24th YAR residents fi rst choice of any available Young America Property 3. Sept 25th Open leasing is available to everyone
3 Bedrooms
Starting 1 from Bath
Under $499 410 W. Vernon $429 1 1006 Samantha $430 1.5 701 S. Franklin $479 1 801 S. University $485 1 3 bed/w den $495 1 306 Normal $489 1 602 Dry Grove $499 2 405 Broadway/den $499 1 $500 to $549 109 W. Willow $515 1 803 Franklin $515 2 406 Broadway/den $535 1 908 S. University $539 1 3 bed/w den $545 1 208 W. Locust $545 1 $550 to $599 705 Franklin/den $555 1 310 W. Willow $560 1 98 W. Cherry/den $569 1 410 N. Main 3 $575 2 Rutherford Suites 202 N. Fell $595 1 $600 to $649 111 W. Cherry $610 2 707 S. Main $624 2 The Big House 607 Broadway $630 3 406 W. Locust $645 3 $650 & Above Cherry St. Townhomes 100 E. Cherry $655 3 Willow Trails 101 & 103 E. Willow $679 3.5 The Covington 102 W. Cherry $699 3.5 Patriot Manor New Construction 601 Broadway $715 3.5 The Lodge 214 W. Willow $720 3.5
REMODEL SPECIALS
104 W. Locust $525 4bd/2bth 111 E. Willow $545 4bd/2bth 400 W. Vernon $549 4bd/2bth 504 W. Willow $565 4bd/2bth
4 Bedrooms
4 Bedrooms
Under $400 1505 Hancock $339 1 701 S. Franklin $349 1 208 W. Locust $350 1 801 S. University $360 1 306 Normal $369 1 117 W. Willow $379 1 400 W. Vernon $385 1 405 Broadway $389 1 908 S. University $395 1 110 W. Locust $398 1 503 Broadway $399 1 905 S. University $399 2 406 Broadway $399 1 101 W. Stewart $399 1 $400 to $449 705 Franklin $423 1 406 Broadway $425 1 101 E. Locust $445 1.5 310 W. Willow $437 1 98 E. Locust $439 1 200 W. Mulberry $445 1 407 W. Willow $445 1 210 N. School $449 1 98 W. Cherry $449 1 112 W. Mulberry $449 1 $450 to $549 206 W. Mulberry $460 1 102 W. Phoenix $465 2 Chic & Unique 104 W. Irving $489 2 309 & 311 S. Main $499 1 Chic & Unique 105 W. Willow $515 2 106 W. Willow $520 1 104 W. Locust $525 2 400 W. Vernon $525 2 406 Broadway $525 2 204 N. Fell $530 2 111 E. Willow $535 2 Wellington Suites 404 N. Main $539 2 Chic & Unique 100 E. Locust $540 2 106 W. Willow $540 2 504 W. Willow $545 2 111 W. Cherry $549 2 Huntington Suites 99 W. Cherry $549 2
$550 to $599 707 S. Main $584 2 Huntington Suites 99 W. Cherry $589 4 Rutherford Suites 202 N. Fell $595 2 Kensington Suites 216 W. Mulberry $599 4 The Wells House 606 Hester $599 4 109 W. Willow $599 2 $600 to $649 Rutherford Suites 202 N. Fell $610 3 Cherry St Townhomes 100 E. Cherry $615 4 Linden/Cherry Townhome 205 N. Linden $625 2.5 111 E. Cherry $625 2.5 Hovey Lofts 800 Samantha $629 4.5 920 Hovey $629 4.5 Broadway St Townhomes 602 - 604 Broadway $639 4.5 Patriot Station 600 Hester $645 2.5 602 Hester $645 4.5 $650 to $699 Patriot Station 600 Hester $655 3.5 Willow Trails 101 & 103 E. Willow $669 4.5 The Covington 102 W. Cherry $679 4.5 Patriot Manor New Construction 601 Broadway $689 4.5 $700 & Above The Lodge 214 W. Willow $710 4.5 Patriot Station 600 Hester $715 3.5 Willow Trails 101 & 103 E. Willow $735 4.5 The Lodge 214 W. Willow $850 4.5
Starting 1 from Bath
10 Pay Options - highlighted in Yellow Prices as of 8/28/13
Starting 1 from Bath
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DILLON STABLES
Dishwasher A/C Heat Laundry Furnished Hot Tub
OPEN LEASING SCHEDULE
Bathrooms
311 S. Main Street • Normal, IL
Voted #1 in Customer Service by Our Residents 5 Years in a Row
Bedrooms
www.YArealty.com 309.454.2338
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102 W Phoenix #9 Theatre Suite #10 Lotus Suite #11 Oak Suite #12 Box Stall Suite #13 Siesta Suite #14 Cool Heat Suite #15 Hayloft Suite #16 Santa Fe Suite
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RESORT STYLE LIVING The Oaks is the only resort style community on campus. Whether you want to relax at the pool, grill on your patio or stay fit in our workout center, you’ll find the lifestyle you deserve at The Oaks.
FALL/SPRING LEASES
(limited number) During the summer of 2014, we will continue our $850,000 upgrade project on our award-winning community. Apartments will receive new hardwood flooring, granite countertops, tile backsplash in kitchen, stainless steel appliances, modernized lighting and more. We are always improving our award-winning community to meet your needs!
STATE OF THE ART SECURITY
WANT SPACE TO PLAY ? • • • • • • • • •
Over 10 acres of luxury 1550-1850 Sq. Ft. townhomes 2 and 3 level floor plans Grill and Picnic areas Oversized sundeck Individual parking spaces - no stack Private patio for each townhome Immense yard space Free broadband internet and Cable TV
• Nightly on-site contracted security guards • Fully fenced property with single entrance • Emergency blue phones • HD color camera monitored complex • Access controlled fitness center & pool • Photocell light on exterior
The Oaks is just 1 of 34 Locations. Look inside for more First Site Ads!
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