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Off-Campus Living Guide

Finding and Securing Housing

Finding an off-campus home is a big step鈥攐ne that requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. This section walks you through the entire process, from search to signing.

Housing

Finding Housing

  • Where to Search
    • An Introduction to Nashville
    • Use the for vetted listings.
    • Use reputable websites like Zillow or Apartments.com.
    • Be wary of listings on Craigslist or Facebook unless verified.
    • Don’t underestimate word-of-mouth. Talk to students currently living off-campus.
  • What to Look For
    • Location: Prioritize proximity to campus, public transportation, grocery stores, and safety.
    • Commute: Use Google Maps to estimate transit or walking times.
    • Included Amenities: Does rent include utilities, internet, parking, laundry, or trash pickup?
    • Safety Features: Secure doors, smoke detectors, outdoor lighting, etc.

Securing Housing

  • Evaluating Listings
    • Watch for Scams:
      • Prices that seem too good to be true
      • Landlords asking for payment before showing the unit
      • Vague or unverifiable contact information
    • Tour the Unit (in person or virtually):
      • Check for damage, cleanliness, water pressure, pest issues
      • Test appliances, locks, and outlets
    • Ask Questions:
      • Are utilities included?
      • What’s the lease length?
      • Who handles repairs?
      • Are pets allowed?
    • Talk to Current Tenants or Neighbors:
      • If possible, ask about noise, maintenance response time, and neighborhood safety.
  • Lease Signing

    Be Prepared (Have these ready):

    • Government-issued ID
    • Proof of enrollment
    • Financial aid award letter
    • Bank statements or pay stubs
    • Co-signer (if required)

    Understand the Lease

    • Read carefully: term dates, rent amount, penalties for breaking the lease, guest policies, and responsibilities.
    • Ask for all verbal agreements to be in writing-including repair promises or utility agreements.

    Co-Signer Info

    • Most students will need a guarantor-often a parent or guardian-especially if you don’t have income.
  • Move-In Checklist

    Once you’ve signed your lease:

    • Document the condition of the unit with timestamped photos/videos.
    • Note any damage and notify the landlord in writing.
    • Store documentation for move-out disputes.
    • Confirm how to pay rent and when utilities start.
  • Provide Info to 国产原创 (required)

    All off-campus residents, including those who lived off campus the previous year, must update their current local address and phone number 颈苍听 . This information helps the University reach you in an emergency and gives you access to 聽if you live within a half-mile from campus.聽How to update your information in YES:

    • Log into聽
    • Go to Personal Information.
    • Under Local (Mailing) Address:
      • Use Line 1 for your street address.
      • Use Line 2 for your apartment number, city, state, and ZIP code.
    • In the Phone Numbers section, enter your current mobile phone number.

    *Failure to provide your valid local address and phone number by the first day of class will result in a hold being placed on your student account.Questions? Contact housing@vanderbilt.edu聽

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