So you don’t want to live in Drexel housing but aren’t really sure where to start? Off-campus living at Drexel can be tricky, you just have to know where you want to start. First decide your desired price range and location (more often than not they may not line up).
LocationKeep in mind your schedule for the next year when determining location. Are you a big fan of night classes? If so, then you may not want to live somewhere you’re not comfortable walking to in the dark later at night. Do you want to be able to walk to campus? Bike? Take public transportation? Keep in mind that the Drexel Shuttle runs between campus and Center City with a few stops along the way on weekdays to get you to class. Check out the Drexel bus routes and see if there are any locations around the routes you would want to live to avoid having to pay for public transportation. Keep you’re options open there are many other neighborhoods to live in besides Powelton Village.
PriceWe all know that price is a huge factor when deciding where to live, but make sure you look past the sticker price. Living on your own means taking care of cable, Internet, electric, gas, and even water bills. All of these expenses can vary from month to month depending on use, something you have to factor in when thinking about paying your base pay rent. Keep in mind other costs such as transportation when living off campus and weigh your options for the worst-case scenario. Talk to your realtor or the property manager about the apartment, sometimes utilities such as water may be included.
Building StyleLook into what type of building you want to live in. Do you want an apartment building with a front desk and security? If you’re looking for your own house, keep your options open. Some houses are divided up into floors with apartments on each floor. Think about the key amenities you want as well. Maybe you want laundry in your unit or you’re okay with sharing, and maybe you’re dead set on a porch. Make a list of the things that are most important to you but be willing to sacrifice on some things.
Research OptionsDrexel has off-campus housing fairs popping up in the springtime, which can be a great place to start. Also check out apartment sites such as Zillow or Trulia. On Trulia you can set up a profile for what you are looking for in what area at what price, and they will send you an email when new listings are posted. Play around on the Internet looking for new places being posted daily, but watch out: it can get addicting. Find something you like? Schedule a walk through ASAP and come with questions for your relator to make the most out of your walk through!
Get Personal RecommendationsSometimes your friends can have the best information regarding off-campus housing. Asking around it won’t hurt! Whether they tell you horror stories of roofs leaking for weeks or having issues with squirrels in the walls, people you know will always give you the raw review of a particular location or landlord. Leaving names out of it, some are better than others!
Off-campus living can be fun, just make sure you do your research! Don’t sign a lease without asking all the questions you have and be sure to read through it. Keep your mind open and have fun looking for your own place!