Housing Options for Next Year
As early as October and November, your student may begin to feel pressure from his or her friends about where to live next year. Often, this happens because—beginning in November—many campus-area property owners begin advertising fall 2009 vacancies. Many students mistakenly think that if they don’t make a decision in November, there will be “nothing left.” That is simply not true. Encourage your student to take his or her time in making this important decision. Below are some factors to keep in mind.
Consider staying on campus. There are many benefits to living in the University Residence Halls. Returning students have the privilege of choosing which hall, floor, and room they will live in. In addition to the academic initiatives, University Residence Halls offer dining facilities featuring fresh, nutritious meals as well as resume-boosting employment opportunities. Also included in the room rate are high-speed internet connections, cable TV with premium channels, and all utilities. Information about selecting rooms for 2009–10 is advertised in late fall, along with Open Houses that offer students a chance to visit other buildings and learn about different residence hall communities, explore single-room options, and meet the staff. Even though the process starts before winter break, Housing contracts are not due until the spring semester, allowing plenty of time to make a decision.
Students who choose to live off campus should take their time before signing a lease. Although some housing units are advertised as early as November, the greatest selection and choice exists December through February. Students who sign leases early are more likely to overpay and find themselves in unfavorable roommate situations. As a reminder, a lease is a binding legal contract. The Campus Area Housing (CAH) Listing Service features an online, consolidated, and searchable listing of campus-area rentals. These include privately owned apartments and houses, roommate searches and sublets, private residence halls, co-ops, and rooms in private homes or rooming houses. The CAH Web site includes frequently asked questions, average rent prices, and links to other important housing-related resources. Visit www.campusareahousing.wisc.edu for more information.