If you’re a student at the Ohio State University in Columbus, you may be getting ready to sign your first lease near campus. With so many on- and off-campus options, the leasing process can sometimes be challenging to navigate.
Read Next: The Top 8 Student Apartments in Columbus, Ohio Near Ohio State
At Rambler Columbus, our team has guided numerous students and parents through the leasing process, and are often asked questions about apartments built for students.
For this reason, we will be answering some of our most commonly asked questions, including:
- What is purpose-built student housing?
- What are the advantages of choosing purpose-built student housing?
- Are student housing apartments right for me?
What are student housing apartments?
Student housing apartments, sometimes referred to as purpose-built student housing, are a rapidly growing segment of the housing market specifically designed to cater to the unique needs and preferences of college students. This type of housing has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional off-campus housing options, offering a range of amenities, modern facilities, and a vibrant student community. This type of housing is particularly appealing to students and parents looking for a convenient, secure, and supportive living environment near the Ohio State University.
Since purpose-built student housing is built to specifically accommodate a student lifestyle, it offers a variety of amenities and features that traditional apartments do not.
What are the advantages of living in apartments built for students?
Designed with students in mind, student housing apartments provide unique amenities not found in traditional apartments. These distinctive features cater to the needs of students and include:
- Lease terms aligned with the academic calendar
- Individual bed leases
- Fully furnished units for convenience
- Dedicated study spaces for academic success
- Convenient proximity to campus for easy access to classes and campus life
Read Next: Student Housing vs.Traditional Apartments near Ohio State University: which is right for me?
Of these benefits, the two key differences of purpose-built student housing are the leasing model and furnishing.
Purpose-built student housing apartments are designed to align with the academic calendar, typically starting in early-mid August and ending on July 31st. This makes them ideal for students who want a hassle-free living arrangement that complements their academic schedule.
Instead of leasing the entire apartment, student housing apartments typically use individual leases, also known as by-the-bed leases. This means that each tenant signs their own lease and is responsible for paying rent for their individual room or bed, as well as their share of the common areas.
For example, in a three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment (3×3), each of the three roommates would sign their own lease for their respective bedroom, bathroom, and use of the common areas. This system clearly defines each roommate’s responsibilities and reduces potential conflicts over rent payments.
Read Next: 5 Benefits of Signing an Individual Lease in Columbus, OH
The other major differentiator is that purpose-built student housing apartments typically come fully furnished.
Fully furnished apartments not only reduce furniture costs but also allow you to avoid the process of selecting and moving furniture. Moreover, if you choose to study abroad or take an internship in another city, you won’t need to worry about renting a storage unit to store your furniture.
Read Next: 8 Ways to Save Money When Living in Student Housing
Are student apartments the right choice for me?
Of the many housing options near Ohio State, student housing apartments have become an extremely popular option in recent years.
While traditional apartments and houses are plentiful around campus and the nearby areas, there are many benefits to choosing purpose-built student housing over traditional housing as a student. Though purpose-built student housing developments may be slightly more expensive than traditional apartments, they provide several advantages such as simplicity and less financial risk, which make them a worthwhile investment for both students and parents.
We hope this article helped you understand what purpose-built student housing is, what the benefits are, and if it is right for you.
Although purpose-built student housing is becoming increasingly popular, there are many options available near Ohio State for those who prefer to live on-campus or in a traditional apartment setting. To help you understand all your housing options, read our article on What Types of Housing Are Available for OSU Students?
If you have any questions about leasing a student housing apartment on campus, feel free to contact our leasing team, who are happy to answer any questions you may have during your housing search.
