Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start looking?

You should start looking whenever you begin thinking about moving off-campus!  Generally, we recommend at least one academic year, but no later then one semester before you plan to move. 

Remember...

• You will need to pay a security deposit, and sometimes first and/or last months rent, to hold most spaces. The space you want may go to someone else if you are not prepared with these funds.
• Most leases are for one (1) calendar year (although some properties may make special arrangements for college students). Plan for how you will pay for all living expenses in advance. 

Should I rent a furnished or unfurnished space? 

Your decision! Things to consider:

• If you choose a furnished property...
  • You may have to keep furniture in the space you do not want.
  • You will be responsible for making sure the furniture does not get damaged.
• If you choose an unfurnished property...
  • You will need to borrow, purchase, or rent any furniture you wish to use.
  • You will need to move the furniture into your space at the beginning of your lease and out of your space at the end of your lease.
  • You may need to rent a storage space for your furniture if there is a gap in your lease. 

In addition to rent, what other costs should I plan for?

As you determine what you can afford, keep in mind the other expenses you will be responsible for. These include:  

• Utilities (electric, water, sewer, trash, internet, etc.)
  Generally speaking, many properties do not include utilities as part of your rent. However, properties that focus on college students may provide some or all of your utilizes as part of your rent.
• Renters insurance
• Living Expenses
  • Food (Will you cook at home and purchase groceries? Will you eat on-campus and purchase a meal plan?)
  • Toiletries
  • Household goods
  • Clothing
  • Cell phone
  •  
• Tuition and Fees
• Textbooks
• Parking

For tips on money management, budgeting, and more, visit the UTC Financial Wellness Center at utc.edu/financial-wellness. 

How do I choose a property?

Choosing a property is largely based on your preferences. Some things to consider:

• Read property and landlord reviews thoroughly.
  • Do other people recommend the property?  
  • Does the property manager upkeep the property and make repairs quickly?
• Visit the property at different times throughout the week.
  • Is the property secure?
  • Do you feel safe?
  • Is there parking available?
• How far is the property from campus?
  • Do you own a car?
  • Will you bike or walk to campus?
  • Do you need to be near the CARTA bus line?
• Does the property have the amenities that you need?
  • What is the length of lease?
  • What utilities, if any, are included in the rent?
  • Is there a washer and dryer available (Is there a laundry facility onsite? Is there a washer and dryer within the apartment? Are there hookups available for machines that you will need to purchase)?
  • Are pets allowed?
  • Is there fitness equipment?
  • Is there a pool, hot tub, or other leisure amenities? 

Do I need to visit the property in-person before I sign a lease?

It is highly recommend that you visit the property, in-person, prior to signing a lease. While it is not required, without seeing it in-person you have no way to ensure that all of your expectations are met. If possible, walk the property and ensure things like hardware, faucets, thermostats, and smoke detectors are working properly. Make sure doors and windows open and shut easily, and can be locked (secured). Take pictures and video of the entire space that you have control over before you move in to ensure you are not held responsible (charged) for things that are broken, damaged, or otherwise non-functioning at the end of your lease.

Can I still get a Meal Plan even though I live off-campus?

Absolutely!  There are so many options offered by Mocs Dining that you are bound to find one that meets your needs at a great price.  Check out the Aramark Non-Resident Meal Plans now.

Do I need to get Renter's Insurance?

Need, no, but it is strongly encouraged.  Like any insurance, Renter's Insurance provides coverage and assurance should anything happen.  It provides the peace of mind to protect not only your home but also your things in case tragedy strikes or simply an accident like a spilled soda on your laptop.  Check out your options on our Resources Page.

What are the Top 10 mistakes new renters make?

1. Signing a lease without reading it thoroughly
   1. This is a legally binding contract, so read every word carefully, be sure you understand it all, and don't sign unless you are sure it has everything it should.
2. Signing a lease without visiting the property or meeting the landlord
   1. While sometimes renting a property from afar is necessary, do everything you can to ensure that you are secure in what you are renting.  Technology makes it easier to "see" places even when you are not physically here.
3. Forgetting to consider transportation options
   1. Think about parking both at the property as well as at school, think about utilizing CARTA to get around, think about the property in relation to the things you do most, and think about the flow/patterns of traffic.
4. Not conducting a pre-move-in walk through (Conditions Checklist)
   1. You must document, with the landlord, the condition of the apartment before you move in to ensure you are not charged for damage or poor conditions when you move out.
5. Not factoring the cost of utilities
   1. Rent is not the only monthly expenses you must pay...utilities usually run about $100-$150 per month, but this depends on the size of your place and if you are splitting any costs.
6. Not communicating clearly with new roommates
   1. Make sure you understand your new roommates needs, preferences, and habits and establish clear "house rules" as that will go a long way to prevent future roommate issues and ensure a positive home environment.
7. Not clarifying or being aware of tenants' responsibilities
   1. The lease should specify these items, but it is good to ask about these items and then make sure they are clear in the lease...who's mowing the lawn, setting up the utilities, watering the flowers, taking out the trash, etc.).
8. Not checking/using safety features
   1. It should be part of your tour or walk through to ensure that the locks, smoke detectors, and other safety features work...and then be sure to use them!
9. Late with communications or payments
   1. Part of living off-campus includes being attentive to your communications and payments.  If a property communicates with you, read the email and respond.  If you have a payment due, be sure to pay it on time.  The negative consequences from being late with these things can be very costly and long lasting.
10. Not speaking up
    1. Whether is a question during the tour or lease signing process or giving notice about a problem/issue, not speaking with someone right away to address your potentially easily fixed concerns now can lead to larger, potentially irreversible problems later.

My question wasn't answered! 

We're sorry your question wasn't answered. We are constantly adding more information and answering more questions! Send us an e-mail at [email protected] and we'll get your question answered as soon as possible!