First-Time Renters in Gainesville, FL
Getting a student apartment for the first time is in exciting experience. You will soon have a place to yourself, and your roommates of course, that is separate from your family and a place you can enjoy your new independence. However, if you have never rented apartments in Gainesville, FL before, there may be many factors that you are not aware of. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as signing a piece of paper. Below are a few steps you may need to take before you officially have a place of your own.
Tips for Renting Your First Student Apartment
Pay Necessary Deposits
Each UF housing option has their own regulations when it comes to your application and processing. Some require you to pay an application fee, first and last month rent, a flat rate security deposit or some combination of the three. You will want to be aware of these costs when you are determining if you can afford to live at each apartment.
Figure Out if You Need Renter’s Insurance
In the event that there is a fire or natural disaster, your landlord is not responsible for replacing any of your possessions. That is where renters insurance comes in; it covers the cost of your belongings and will also pay for any medical bills if anyone gets injured while in your apartment. At many apartment complexes, you have the choice whether you get this feature while others require all residents to have insurance. You will want to be aware of this cost as well if it is required.
Decide Who Pays Utilities
Because it is your first time renting Gainesville student living, you may be unaware of all of the monthly bills you will have to pay such as water, power, internet and cable. However, these companies do not conveniently bill you and your roommates separately. Instead, you will need to assign one person to be responsible for paying for it and then each of your other roommates will pay them for their part.
Pay Pet Deposits
If you have a pet that you are hoping to bring with you, make sure your apartment allows them. UF student apartments frequently have restrictions on the type of animals they permit you to have and limits to their sizes. Often you will also need to pay an extra deposit for having a pet. This covers the cost of extra cleaning or repairs relating to your animal.
Move In Properly
After your application gets approved and you sign the contract, your job is not complete; you still need to move in. Make sure you ask the management at your Gainesville apartments about restrictions regarding moving in or out. Many places have certain days or hours devoted to this process. This helps prevent students from making loud noises in the middle of the night and disturbing their neighbors. Further, if they have an elevator you can use, you may only have access to it for specific periods of time. You will want to wait to schedule your move until you find out what their policy is.
Know the Rights of Management
Though your new University of Florida housing represents your freedom and independence, your management has rights. They are allowed to enter your apartment while you are not home in order to make repairs or if there is cause for suspicion. It is important to review your lease thoroughly in order to find the extent of their power.
Off Campus Apartments Near UF
When you are looking for student housing in Gainesville, FL, you want a choice you can trust. The Retreat at Gainesville offers everything you want and need such as a prime location near campus, security, fitness center and variety of floorplans. Contact us today for a tour.