As a first-time student, the thought of heading off to college and living on your own, studying, and making new friends can be daunting. While you may also be excited, transitioning from high schooler to college student is a chaotic time in a person’s life. If you are studying in a different state, transporting not only yourself but your possessions is an immense task. What’s more, you have to decide whether to live on campus or find an apartment of your own near the college. For some, the latter is far more beneficial.

Living in your own apartment offers freedom and privacy. You are not surrounded by on-campus parties which can disturb your studying and keep you awake until the early hours of the morning. You can live how you like.

The University of Texas is ranked #8 in best-value public colleges, and #32 in best global universities. It is a popular and reputable university with top-ranked academics, brilliant facilities (the campus boasts 17 libraries and 4 museums), and strong athletics and research programs.

If you are heading to Austin for your first year of university or are entering your second or third year and are after a change in scenery from the usual halls of residence, here’s a guide on finding a student apartment in Austin.

Decide on Your Ideal Location

Austin is regularly considered one of the most exciting places to live in America, with its energetic music scene, incredible restaurant culture, unique vibe and beautiful, well-kept landscapes. While you will want to be close to the campus, when it comes to deciding where to live, the decision can become a difficult one to make.

Downtown Austin is only a stone’s throw away from the university’s campus and is considered the heartbeat of Austin, Texas. What’s more, Downtown is a thriving district, cateredto students looking to relax, have a good time and enjoy both modern and old architecture. Considered a hip metropolis, Downtown Austin has an incredible live music scene, and many delicious restaurants, bars, andcafes to indulge in.

Notable places of interest include live music at the Moody Theater, food on Rainey Street, indie films at the Alamo Drafthouse, and the Downtown Farmers Market for local produce.

West Campus is unsurprisingly heavily populated by students. The area is infamous for its colorful residential buildings and beautiful architecture. For lovers of nature, Pease Park is an extensive park, ideal for relaxing, walking, play and picnics. What’s more, there’s a running trail and a view of Shoal Creek.

North Campus/Hyde Park is another popular destination for students, due to its close proximity to the university and green surroundings. For students wanting peace and quiet, North Campus is much quieter than West Campus; it’s also a bike-friendly neighborhood and close to the university’s athletic venues. Being a student-oriented neighborhood, North Campus is home to many cafes and coffee shops so students can remain caffeinated.

Fly Solo, or Room with Flat mates?

You need to decide on whether you want to live on your own or with others. If it is your first year of university, then living with fellow students can allow you to integrate into university life much more easily. It is also easier to form a social group before you attend your lectures, and you’ll be able to rest assured in knowing that your flat mates will be feeling exactly the same as you. This can, therefore, ease any worries you may have had regarding meeting new people.

However, if you prefer to live alone, there are many apartment buildings catered to student living. You can then ensure to find students in your building and neighborhood.

What Amenities Do You Need?

Apartments are not one and the same. Some may come with luxurious extras (at a higher price tag) while others are simpler and only offer the minimum. While, of course, your budget will play a huge part in the amenities you require, you need to deduce what is useful and what is an add-on you can live without.

As a student, you may have to live without certain appliances. For instance, your apartment may not have a washing machine. If not, ensure there are laundromats close by. Amenities that are essential, however, include:

• A cooker
• A fridge
• Running water (hot/cold)
• Heater/Air conditioning
• Electricity

Arrange a Visit

Never trust what you see on a website. Always view the apartment before making a deposit. Of course, this can be difficult for those who live in another state; however, it is a necessity. Bring parents to the viewing so that you can get a second opinion, and make sure you are completely happy with the apartment, building, and neighborhood. You should not compromise on what you need from your apartment.

If you need help finding an apartment that suits your budget and you need assistance in seeing an apartment first-hand, be sure to hire professionals who can find the best location, price, and value for you.

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October 18, 2018