As a UW–Madison student, did you know there is a campus resource designed specifically to help you navigate the off-campus housing market? Off-Campus Housing Services within University Housing provides resources and offers follow-up support to help students make informed housing decisions. Their services include educational programs, building relationships with landlords, and meeting individually to answer student questions.
We asked Erin Warner, Assistant Director of Off-Campus Housing Services, to share some advice for students exploring off-campus housing options in the coming year
Before Your Housing Search
As a first step, Warner suggests taking time to develop a budget that includes not just rent, but also utilities, household goods, food, security deposit, renters’ insurance, and other secondary expenses. This is also a great time to meet with the Office of Student Financial Aid to get assistance with your budget as well as how your financial aid package can be applied to off-campus housing.
If, through this process, you’re wondering: “How can I save money?” you’re not alone. In fact, this is the number one question Warner gets from students. Here are some considerations you can make during your search:
- Roommates/Room Sharing: The most common way students save money is by having roommates and/or sharing a bedroom. A May 2024 survey of UW students showed 25% chose to share a bedroom and 67% did so to save money.
- Needs vs. Wants: Another way to save is prioritizing your needs vs. wants. For example, do you need a washer and dryer in your unit or would it be sufficient to have one on the premises? These decisions, as well as some flexibility, can help you find what’s most important to you while avoiding unnecessary costs.
- Location: Properties further from the center of campus are often less costly. If you’re willing to take on a walking, biking or bus commute of 10-20 minutes, you’ll likely find more options at lower prices. Plus, with your ASM student bus pass, a quick bus ride is also free!
- Plan Ahead: Factors like study abroad, internships, or winter graduation may alter your off-campus lease plans. Meet with your advisor to determine your academic plans for next year. Then, consider how subletting or shorter-term leases may be a better fit for your situation.
- Part-Time Employment: Finally, getting a part-time job allows you to earn extra money toward living expenses, while also gaining new skills and real-world experience. You can find current openings for on- and off-campus jobs on the Student Job Board.
Once you create your budget and think through these factors, be sure to stick to your plan. Don’t feel pressured by friends or fancy marketing to choose a living arrangement you’re not comfortable with. The campus area has options with a wide variety of features at a wide range of price points.
During Your Housing Search
A great place to start are the online resources provided by Off-Campus Housing services. These include a recently updated Rental Resource guide, as well as postings for housing, parking, roommates, and sublets at campusareahousing.wisc.edu. Then, once you’ve done your research, Warner has some tips on navigating the process, from scheduling the tour to signing your (potentially first) lease:
- Tour the Property – Whenever possible, be sure to visit a property in person before signing a lease. This is an ideal time to ask questions about price, security deposit, lease terms, and amenities. Not sure what to ask? Enlist the help of a trusted family member or support person.
- Lease – A lease is not only a legally binding financial obligation, but it might also be your first step toward establishing rental and credit history. Warner says that it is critical to understand your rights and obligations as a tenant, as well those of your landlord. If you have questions or are unclear on the terms of a lease, contact the Tenant Resource Center for free support and services.
- Cosigners – Since many students don’t have rental or credit history, it is common for landlords to require a cosigner on the lease. This might be a parent or other family member. This article by the Tenant Resource Center provides tips and advice to share with potential cosigners.
For questions on these topics and more, contact UW–Madison’s Off-Campus Housing Services at off-campus@housing.wisc.edu. Students and their families can also reference the most recent Badger Family Forum, “Helping Your Student Find a Home Away from Home” for insights Off-Campus Housing Services, the Parent and Family Program, University Housing, the Tenant Resource Center, and LZ Management.