How to Find the Perfect Apartment Near Loyola University Chicago
Finding a new apartment in Chicago can be daunting, whether you are a resident or a student. With so many things to consider, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, the students of Loyola have some of the best options on campus and off. The biggest reward of finding a new place is coming home daily happy with where you live. Here are the top 10 tips for finding a new apartment near Loyola University.
Determine Your Apartment Budget
The price is one of the most important things to consider when moving into a new apartment. Since Chicago is a large city, there are tons of options, and rent can be cheaper with roommates. Price will also depend on whether you want a fully furnished apartment or will be bringing your stuff.
Prioritize Location on Or Off the Loyola University Campus
Depending on where your classes are and the locations you need the quickest access to, location is at the top of the list of where to consider living. When it comes to Chicago and Loyola apartments, there are updated options for those seeking modernism and apartments with the vintage charm that Chicago is known for. Start by identifying where you will need to be most often and start your search in that area. Expand if you can’t find exactly what you need, but keep your ideal location in mind when looking.
Here are some good locations near Loyola:
Rogers Park: Known for its diverse community, Rogers Park is the closest neighborhood to the school and is ideal for students and staff who want to walk to class or work.
Uptown: Known for being the entertainment neighborhood, when you’re a young college student, it can be fun and beneficial to live close to the bars and fun. A little further south, it can be a great location if you drive or take public transit every day.
Edgewater: With the best mix of modern charm and historic buildings, Edgewater has some of the area’s best shopping, dining, apartments, and more.
Start Your Loyola Apartment Search Early
Starting early could be the key to landing your perfect apartment. Ask around at the end of the school year and see if there are any preferred apartments by other students you know, and see if you can visit some spots before coming home for the summer. The sooner you start considering where and whom you want to live with, the sooner you can sign up for your first choice spot!
Consider Safety and Security
While Loyola and Rogers Park is a relatively safe area, it’s always good to ensure your building is doing everything it can to keep you safe. Are your apartment’s appliances up to code? Is everything fixed? Are there cameras outside and working locks on the doors? These are all good questions to ask before signing a lease.
Evaluate Building Amenities and Features
To some, this may be the most important part. Forget location and size; does the apartment have an in-unit washer and dryer? Do they have a dishwasher? Outdoor space? If you’re trying to get the most bang for your buck, deciding what is necessary for your apartment can easily help you cross apartments off your list.
Usually, the most important amenities for people are dishwashers and in-unit laundry, but tons of other perks come along with apartment life. For one, a full kitchen so you can finally cook and avoid the dining facilities. Also, consider whether you will need/want an outdoor space or balcony, a large closet, extra storage, etc.
View Apartments in Person
While you’re still on campus and in the city, touring apartments can be crucial for securing the one you want. There might be weird hours or scheduling conflicts that can make it hard to fit apartment viewings into your schedule, but trusting the pictures on the leasing websites is never what you want. Make sure to go in person to ensure the apartment meets expectations.
Consider Roommates And Apartment Size
If you’re coming from the dorms, any apartment off-campus will feel like a mansion! If you have a pet and are looking for an outdoor space or room for them to run around, make sure that it is at the top of your priority list when looking. If you want more bang for your buck and don’t want to live alone, considering roommates is the best option! You get more space, more amenities, and more time to hang out with your friends.
Check for Maintenance and Management
Inquiring about maintenance and management can be an easy way to weed out apartments you don’t like. Checking in about their response times, how requests are handled, and reading online reviews can all help you understand if an apartment will be a good fit for you.
Understanding Leases
A lease is a legally binding document, so pay close attention before signing. Get a second opinion from your parents or utilize the school resources for such a thing. By reading your lease, you will know when payment is due and the policies regarding subletting, maintenance, utilities, and more.
Review Your Options
Once you have visited everywhere you want, make a pros and cons list for each apartment to see what you like the best. It’s easy to get excited about the first apartment you see, but sitting down to think about what you need in a living space can be hard to do. Finding the perfect apartment is all about balancing your needs with what is available.