10. Needs versus wants

It is important for any student to consider their needs and wants before moving out of the dorms. Do you plan on biking, walking or taking a bus to campus? Is having a backyard a must, or will an apartment with some grassy area suffice? If you are living with others, consider how many bathroom spaces (showers, toilets, sinks, etc.) you and the others would need to be efficient and comfortable.

9. Total cost

Think about the balance of cost when it comes to living off-campus. Apartments closer to campus tend to run a bit higher in monthly rent, but would you be saving more living farther away while also paying for a parking pass and gas for the car? Also, consider the cost of time, as commuting from farther away could cut into your time spent preparing meals and doing homework.

8. Communicate with roommates

Make sure you know who is bringing what before you even move in – not having a couch because nobody mentioned it is everything but ideal. Be explicit; do not make assumptions that everyone is on the same page. Not everyone grew up the same way, so considering the differences and being upfront is key to sharing a living space.

7. To share or not to share

Another point on communication: Make sure your roommates know what you are willing to share, and also make sure that you understand their stance on sharing. You may not care if someone ate the rest of your snacks, but your roommate may feel differently. There may be instances where you split the cost of certain things like food, toilet paper, etc.

6. Friends are not always good roommates

You think you know someone until you live with them. Friends do not always make the best roommates, and you might find yourself not saying certain things to avoid damaging the relationship. Be cautious when considering moving in with partners as well for the same reasons.

It may be scary to live with strangers, but they could always become friends down the road. Some friends might make great roommates, others may not.

5. Pets

Since pets are adorable but not allowed in the dorms, it is easy to fall head-over-heels for one at the local shelter, but consider if both you and the pet will benefit from each other. Pets typically do not care for the irregular schedules of college students, nor do they care much for small living spaces. Also, consider the financial responsibility for your pet if it needs to visit the veterinarian as well as fostering a pet!

4. Leases and legal services

Most of us are not exceptional readers of legal jargon, but that is what CSU’s Student Legal Services are for. For the most part, apartment complexes work within the confines of the law, but your mom-and-pop landlords may not keep up to date on housing laws. Student Legal Services can give your lease a lookover before you sign to ensure the legality of your potential agreement.

3. School breaks

Ensure you have a plan if everyone is leaving for a break. If your sidewalk or driveway needs to be shoveled, make sure someone is there to help. While everyone is gone, have a plan to keep the home secure.

2. Safety

Bringing back communication with roommates, it is important to be on the same page with home security like locking doors and windows. People who grew up in rural areas may not have needed to lock their doors and windows, but the city provides its challenges and concerns. It may also be wise to look into the crime rate in the area you are interested in living in.

1. City ordinances

Be aware of different ordinances Fort Collins has implemented. Occupancy, trash, weeds, parking and even noise ordinances are something to consider. Off-Campus Life provides information about city codes on its website under the “Your Community” tab.