Hunting for Ohio University rentals for the next school year is an exciting time. While part of you is focused on the current semester, you also get to daydream about what your life could be like next school year in a brand new college apartment that’s a stone’s throw from campus.
While an affordable apartment for Ohio University students or a rental home in a prime location like Court Street are always at the top of the list, be sure to consider the amenities that come along with the rental home too. The right amenities can have a major impact on your experience while away at college. Whether you’re viewing an Ohio University apartment in-person or browsing properties online, keep the following amenities in mind during your search.
Amenities That You Can’t Do Without in a University Rental
There are conveniences that most people wouldn’t want to do without. If they did without amenities like laundry, wi-fi, and nearby parking at their OU rental pad, it would make things, well, inconvenient.
In-Unit Laundry
In-unit—or at least on-site—washers and dryers are one of those conveniences that are hard to do without once you’ve gotten a taste of it. It’s one of those rare things that does, in fact, save you both time and money. Not only do you avoid having to lug laundry across town to the laundromat while you wait around for your load to finish, but you also don’t have to carry a sack of quarters either. If you find an Ohio University apartment with in-unit laundry, consider yourself one of the lucky ones.
On-Site or Nearby Parking
In the city of Athens especially, an Ohio University rental with a convenient parking situation is also at the top of the list. For those who don’t know, the law of the land is that cars parked alongside the streets must be moved every 24 hours, or else you risk getting a parking ticket. Not fun. That money could go towards more important activities—like a round of drinks with friends. Fortunately, if your college apartment rental has on-site parking, you’re in the clear.
If not, don’t fret—there are plenty of parking spots for rent in Athens close to campus that let you avoid having to remember whether you moved your car in time or not.
Reliable Internet Connections
This last one doesn’t happen too often in today’s age, but with some of the older homes in town, it’s important to make sure they have reliable internet connections. Having a speedy wi-fi connection is all but essential for your college career.
Conveniences in OU Rental Homes that Enhance Your Day-to-Day
These aren’t necessarily make-it-or-break-it amenities, but depending on the type of person you are, some of them might come close.
Central Air Conditioning in Ohio University Apartments
Take air conditioning, for example. The summer and early fall in Athens is notoriously hot and humid. While most Ohio University apartments will come with a window unit at the very least, some won’t have central air conditioning. If you know you need that extra comfort during the warmer months, consider an OU rental with upscale amenities like central air conditioning.
Close-to-Campus Rentals Save You Time
You’ll also want to consider the closeness of your apartment to Ohio University’s campus. Are you able to walk to campus from your student rental? If your rental is further away, does the CATS bus service come by your Ohio University apartment? If you didn’t bring a car along to school with you, having a straightforward commute to classes is essential.
Questions to Ask About Amenities in Ohio University Rental Homes
Say you’ve found your dream Ohio University apartment for rent with everything a student would need. It’s spacious, in a great area, and has all the modern conveniences you’ve come to know and love back home. While you’re in talks with the rental company, consider asking the following questions about the amenities to make sure everyone’s on the same page:
- Are the amenities included in the cost of rent? This is important, especially for electricity and water usage. Knowing the full cost ahead of time makes it easier to plan and budget.
- Are there usage limits or restrictions? This might apply for things like on-site laundry and the internet connection.
- What is the process for reporting maintenance issues? Knowing exactly where and how to report a maintenance request will make things way less stressful if and when the time comes.
Keep these essential conveniences in mind, and you’ll be well-equipped to find an Ohio University apartment available for rent that fits your needs and enhances your college experience.