Top Mistakes Students Make When Renting Apartments

Top Mistakes Students Make When Renting Apartments (And How to Avoid Them)

Renting your first apartment is a big step. It’s exciting—but it’s also easy to mess up if you’re not careful. From budgeting slip-ups to signing sketchy leases, here are some of the most common mistakes students make when renting—and how you can avoid them.

1. Not Setting a Real Budget

Rent isn’t the only thing you’ll be paying for. There’s also electricity, water, internet, food, and maybe even furniture. If you don’t plan ahead, it’s super easy to end up broke halfway through the semester. Figure out your monthly income and expenses before you even start looking.

2. Ignoring the Neighborhood

Don’t pick a place just because it looks cute in the photos. Is it safe? Can you walk to class or catch a bus nearby? Are there grocery stores, cafés, or laundromats close? Visit the area at different times of day—especially at night—to see what it’s really like.

3. Not Reading the Lease

Yes, leases are boring—but skipping this part is risky. Read every section carefully, especially stuff about rent increases, deposits, maintenance, guests, and what happens if you need to move out early. If something feels off, ask questions or have someone else read it too.

4. Skipping the Apartment Walkthrough

Never rent without seeing the place in person. Photos can be outdated or misleading. Check for damage, test appliances, and look at things like water pressure, windows, and closet space. Take photos and write down any issues so you’re not blamed for them later.

5. Rushing Into It

You might feel pressure to grab the first decent-looking apartment you find—but rushing can lead to regrets. Visit multiple places, compare options, and make sure the lease terms and roommate situation feel right before you commit.

6. Not Thinking About Roommate Compatibility

Living with someone is way different than being friends with them. Talk openly about cleaning habits, overnight guests, study hours, and sharing food or bills. The more honest you are upfront, the less drama you'll have later.

7. Being Afraid to Ask Questions

You have every right to ask stuff like:

• How’s maintenance handled?
• What’s included in the rent?
• Are utilities extra?
• Can I sublet if I leave for the summer?
  A responsible landlord or property manager should be happy to answer.

8. Forgetting Renter’s Insurance

It’s not just for adults. Renter’s insurance is cheap and protects your stuff if there’s a fire, flood, or theft. Most policies cost less than $15/month, and it could save you a ton if something goes wrong.

Final Thoughts

Renting an apartment as a student doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t skip the small stuff. A little extra effort now can save you money, stress, and awkward roommate conversations down the line.