How to rent a house as international students in USA? How can I find a house for rent? Go to college is one of the most exciting times in a person’s life. It’s a time when international students are exposed to new people, new ideas, new experiences and new country. It is also a time when international students have the freedom to create their own space and decide how they want to lease a house in America. One of the biggest decisions international students make is whether to live on-campus or off-campus. While on-campus dormitories are ideal for college freshmen who are new to campus life and who doesn’t want to commute, off-campus apartments and cheap houses to rent in America could be a better option for college students who want more freedom and amenities.
In order to help international students know how to rent a house in USA, we have created this blog on tips of how to lease a house as international students with details.
Types of Rental Properties
There are numerous types of rental properties for international students both on and off campus. In order to become acquainted with the school environment, have convenient access to campus resources, and maintain relationships with other students, some first-year international students choose to live on campus. While others choose to live off campus such as cheap houses to rent in America in order to take advantage of the cafes, eateries, and recreational areas in the surrounding area. When studying in the USA, international students will probably be able to select among the following types of rental properties.
On-Campus Dormitory
Generally, school dormitories are divided into independent small house apartment buildings and high-rise apartment apartment buildings, usually for 1 person/2 people/4 people per room. The biggest advantage of living in a school dormitory is that it is close to the school. Most of the school dormitories are located around the school. Students can walk to school without driving. But the disadvantage is that the privacy is poor when multiple people live in it. Bathrooms and living spaces need to be shared. Kitchens, washing machines, dryers, etc. also need to be shared.
Off-Campus Apartment
How can I rent an apartment? What do I need to rent an apartment? Renting of apartment is a very popular choice for international students. Many apartments are close to schools, making commuting very convenient. How to rent an apartment? The renting of apartment also has a community and property center, with relatively good security conditions and surrounding environment. At the same time, renting of apartment also has many supporting facilities, such as community parking lots, swimming pools, entertainment gyms, etc. uhomes.com will provide students with comfortable, reliable and affordable student apartments in USA.
Renting of apartment generally provides large appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, ovens, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, etc. However, most apartments do not come with furniture, such as beds, mattresses, sofas, coffee tables, etc., which need to be purchased by yourself.
Compared to living in a dormitory, international students who live in an off-campus apartment have less structure and more independence. But they are fully accountable for managing the apartment, which includes meals, cleanliness and maintenance, safety precautions, and monthly bills covering rent and utilities.
Off-Campus House
An independent rent house in America with a backyard, which we often call a villa. The advantage of cheap houses to rent in America is that it has a large area and is suitable for multiple people to share. The cost per person is much lower than that of an apartment, and it can be lively when there are many people. The disadvantage is that rent house in America it offers less privacy and requires a shared living space, and roommates may have conflicts in trivial matters due to personality differences.
Off-Campus Homestays
For international students under the age of 18, homestays can be a good alternative, especially for those who are anxious about moving away from home and into a new country. They will be placed with an American family in a homestay arrangement that within 20 to 45 minutes from their university. Meals will be served, and each student will have a private room. Students can completely immerse themselves in American culture by living with an American family and adjusting to their way of life. Even when they are abroad and far from home, they can still enjoy the conveniences of family life and home.
Types of Houses
Studio
The bedroom, living room and kitchen are integrated, with only the toilet separated. Studio is like Loft, suitable for single living.
1B1B (One Bedroom & One Bathroom)
One bedroom, one bathroom and one living room, with separate bedroom and living room, suitable for individuals or couples, with high privacy.
2B1B, 2B2B, 3B2B, etc.
These are multi-bedroom units suitable for sharing with friends. The first B is the bedroom, and the second B is the bathroom. The master room usually has its own bathroom, which is shared with other bedrooms.
Average Rent in the USA
The average rent in the USA is $1,498/month. This is 0.7% higher than this time last year.
| Apartment Type | Average Rent | Average Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,544/month | 470 Sq Ft |
| One Bedroom | $1,536/month | 699 Sq Ft |
| Two Bedroom | $1,791/month | 999 Sq Ft |
| Three Bedroom | $2,197/month | 1,288 Sq Ft |
Considerations of How to Rent a House
Monthly budget
Consider the cost of leasing a house for available housing option and whether the rent, utilities, commuting, food, and other expenses within your budget.
Location
Think about convenience and safety. Living close to the university and having access to public transportation, grocery stores, and pharmacies is very convenient, but can be expensive. A secure neighborhood is important for your safety and provides a peace of mind for you.
Amenities
Check for the availability of high-speed internet, laundry, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, and other facilities you may need during your leasing a house.
Duration of stay
If you will be staying off campus in an apartment or home rental, clarify the details of your housing choice with your landlord or homestay administrator — whether you are going to stay for a very short period of time, moving back to your home country for the holidays, or hoping to stay in the same home over the long run.
Requirements of How to Rent a House
Valid visa: Ensure you have a valid student visa or working holiday visa that allows you to reside in America and lease a house.
Proof of enrolment or employment: Provide documentation proving your enrolment in an educational institution or employment status, demonstrating your ability to pay leasing a house.
Rental application: Complete a rental application form, including personal details, references, and financial information.
Rental history or guarantor: International students with limited rental history may need to provide a guarantor, such as a family member or guardian, who can vouch for your credibility as a tenant.
Bond: Landlords usually require a security deposit, known as a bond, which is refundable at the end of the tenancy, provided no damages occur.
Where to Find a house
School Rental Website/Office
How can I find a house for rent? For international students who have just come to study abroad, they can first go to the school rental website to check the dormitory accommodation requirements. Some school dormitories are only open to freshmen, and some require application.
CSSA
Chinese American associations or the Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) at universities usually compile information on housing suitable for students to rent.
Rental Information Integrated Website
uhomes.com provides comprehensive housing information, suitable for finding high-quality houses. It has an extensive property database that provides detailed housing information and rental estimates.
Property Management Company
Many landlords in America will entrust their houses to property management companies for rent. Such companies have websites where students can directly search and submit rental applications. Usually, property management companies also have full-time property managers (Supers) who are responsible for solving various property problems for residents. This method of renting is more formal and sometimes requires the tenant to provide SSN and related credit records. For international students who have just arrived in the United States, it is recommended to understand the rental conditions in advance to avoid unnecessary troubles.
Website Evaluating Condition of House
Rent Jungle: International students can find out whether the rent they pay is reasonable in the local area.
Spotcrime: Find criminal records near their house to ensure a safe rental environment.
Apartment Rating: Provides detailed ratings of houses and facilities, including noise, maintenance, security, parking, etc., for reference.
Tips of How to Rent a House in USA
1. Buy Renters Insurance
In the United States, insurance is required when renting a house. Insurance is generally divided into landlord insurance and renters insurance. If international students choose to live in an apartment, many apartments require purchased renters insurance when signing a contract, so be prepared in advance.
Landlord Insurance
Landlord insurance mainly protects the structure of the house and does not cover damage to tenant’s property. Therefore, in the event of fire or theft, tenant’s property damage is not covered.
Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance (also called Tenant Insurance) protects the rights and interests of tenants. Its claims coverage includes personal property insurance, liability insurance and additional living expense insurance.
2. Confirm Identity ofLandlord
Before signing a contract, be sure to ask the landlord to produce a property title certificate and proof of identity to confirm the ownership of house. Try to avoid renting a house from a second landlord, but if students really need it, be sure to ask the other party to provide supporting documents such as a rental contract to avoid being deceived. Sometimes the main tenant of the house will find other roommates to share the rent with. In this case, it is also important to understand the terms of the contract of the main signer in detail to avoid getting into disputes.
3. Sign a Contract
This is the best way to protect students’ rights and interests. If landlord does not ask for a formal contract, or is unwilling to sign one, students should consider looking for other rental options.
4. Outline Cost-Related Details
Clearly outline the tenant’s rights and responsibilities, as well as the landlord’s obligations in the contract, including details such as the rental date, lease period, rent, deposit, and rent payment date, as well as mention the rental furniture, electrical appliances and other equipment and related maintenance responsibilities.
5. Rental
Determine the rent amount and included expenses (water, electricity, gas, telephone, cable TV, garbage, Internet, property management fees, parking spaces, etc.). Determine how rent will be paid. The landlord does not have the right to unilaterally adjust the rent before the contract expires (unless otherwise provided in the contract). Note that if students plan to rent for a year, don’t sign a half-year contract to avoid the landlord raising the rent midway.
6. Security Deposit
Landlords usually require students to pay the first and last month’s rent in advance as a deposit when signing a contract.
The security deposit is used to cover damage or cleaning costs caused by the student’s fault, and also to prevent tenant theft. If the property is in good condition when students check out, the landlord will refund the deposit in full.
7. Negotiate Utilities
Clarify in the contract the payment responsibilities and methods for water, electricity, gas, telephone, cable TV, garbage, Internet, property management fees, etc. Determine whether it is included in the rent, paid based on usage, or shared equally. In addition, the method and period of bill payment must be determined.
8. Negotiate Liability for Breach of Contract
Liabilities for breach of contract should be clearly stipulated in the contract, such as liability for compensation if the landlord delays delivery of the house or the tenant returns the lease after the deadline. Avoid trouble when disputes arise and protect the rights and interests of both parties.
9. Negotiate Check-Out Conditions
Although the possibility of a temporary break-out is little, having it agreed upon beforehand can provide assurance. Discuss with the landlord whether to allow the sub-tenant to cancel the lease early to avoid paying additional compensation.
10. Read the Contract
Don’t be lazy and read every clause of the contract carefully. Some contracts may win students’ rights, or they may result in losses due to negligence. If necessary, students can seek help from the school’s tenant services office or seek professional advice.
11. Inspect the Property
Before signing and moving in, inspect the home with the landlord or property manager and document any existing damage (students can take photos as evidence). Be sure to clearly explain the problems of the house in advance, including lighting, water and electricity facilities, etc., to avoid future disputes.
Conclusion
How to rent a house as international students in USA is very important. Rental properties for students in the USA is an impactful part of the study abroad experience. Living in a pleasant, safe, and comfortable rental property environment influences international students’ physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, their academic performance and social life. With help of this comprehensive blog, you will have a better knowing of how to rent a house.
FAQ
The median rent in US is $2,150. Houses in US rent between $25 – $1,000,000 with a median rent of $2,150.
The dominant methods for paying rent are cash (22 percent), check (42 percent), and money order (16 percent). Electronic methods are still rarely used, at 8 percent for bank account number payment and 7 percent for online banking bill payment, and less than 2 percent for debit and credit cards.
Here are the top ten cheapest places to rent a home in the USA, according to Apartment Guide:
Killeen, Texas – $595 a month.
Youngstown, Ohio – $615 a month.
Henderson, Kentucky – $615 a month.
Springfield, Missouri – $625 a month.
Gulfport, Mississippi – $637 a month.
Ashland, Ohio – $640 a month.
New York tops the list with an average monthly cost of $4,200 for a one-bedroom apartment. Not only is it expensive, but due to high demand, living in the Big Apple can be competitive.
A property can rent in 30-60 days or less if priced right. A good property management company will be able to do research to set a price that is based on the local market and advertise aggressively to get vacancies filled quickly.
Winter. When Is the Best Time of Year to Rent an Apartment? The best time to rent an apartment for lower rates is during winter (October to April) when rates and demand are lowest, especially from January to March.
