Are you sick and tired of dorm life? Maybe it’s time for you to get your own apartment. Maybe share it with a few choice friends. Here are excellent tips on how to find your own abode:

Look early. I’m sure that there are a lot of students looking for their own accomodation especially before the beginning of a school year. Student properties are usually available at the beginning of the year, when university-recommended properties are already listed and made available to the public.

To make sure that you be the first to get the best property, you should already list down what you want. Make a checklist so you can easily narrow down your choices. Research on prices as well.

Shop around. Bring your checklist with you. You almost always never find the “perfect” place at one shot. Location is important as well. Some places near the campus could be more expensive. If you don’t mind traveling or walking a bit, then you can try to find accomodation a little further away where it is less expensive. However, weigh out the pros and cons, and find out which one suits you better.

Be realistic. “Perfect” doesn’t exist. If that is your goal, then you’d find difficulty looking. Remember to set goals, including time frame. Make allowances for compromise.

Never transact without a contract. Always read everything including those in fine print. Ask questions to your potential landlord and make everything clear before signing anything.

If you are sharing house with some friends, make sure that you set rules up front. Chores, payment, and other rules should be drawn even before moving in.