State College apartment tips for PSU students when moving off campus

October 1, 2021
Moving to a new State College apartment off-campus and away from the safety and convenience of PSU dorms can be really stressful and hard to plan. With many options for State College housing, it's essential to choose an apartment that best suits your needs and budget. Here's a convenient move-out checklist that will help make your move as easy as possible while being fun and exciting.

Choosing the place
Choosing an apartment or house to live in comes with a variety of choices - from how many roommates to have, to the time it will take to drive or walk back to Penn State campus for class. When choosing a location, keep the following in mind.

Apartment or house?
State College apartments can be convenient with many buildings close by campus and some apartments offering cheaper rent options for students than renting a house. Apartments offer the experience of being free from the dorms, without the need to take on someone else's mortgage payment - as happens when you rent a house. 

Getting a roommate or two can help cut the cost of renting an apartment. Living alone will cost more than living with others, so prepare yourself mentally and emotionally to be dealing with a few other people in similar situations.

Checking the living space
It's essential to check the apartment you want to move into before you sign the lease. Most apartments in State College will allow you to come and tour the place before you sign a lease. If you're looking at apartments, ask if you can take a look at the place you'll actually be living in. Check under the sinks, in drawers and around the corners of the rooms for signs of bugs or rodents. Keep a lookout for water damage.

Remember to ask any questions that come to mind about laundry, noise level, quiet hours, etc.

Convenience and accessibility
Know what the State College neighborhood is like around the building, including grocery stores, gas stations and walkability. Have an idea of how accessible parking will be during different hours of the day and confer with roommates about their needs concerning location and nearby neighborhood. Make sure you're comfortable walking around the area and don't strain yourself when running errands or going out for jogs. Knowing the area beforehand is essential to comfortably moving into your new State College apartment.

What to bring
Before moving off-campus for the first time, assemble a list of items you have and items you'll need to live comfortably. Check in with roommates to see what they'll be bringing so no one overlaps.

Appliances
Many apartments in State College will already have stoves and fridges. You might need a microwave, coffee pot or toaster depending on your preferences and any other kitchen appliance that suits you. Some State College apartments come furnished with TVs and beds but you'll likely need to bring your own TV and potentially a washer and dryer depending on the location. Apartments usually opt for a laundry area on the first or basement floors or no area at all on the premises.

Know ahead of time what is included with the living space and what you'll need, going through each room to determine a list. From the kitchen to the bathroom to the living room, each room will likely need something that isn't provided.

Furniture
From nightstands to beds to kitchen tables, something is sure to be missing and will need to be included in your list of needs. Unlike appliances, which are immediately helpful and can be necessary, not all the furniture will need to be bought when moving in. If you're on a budget, focus on the important items and move down the list. For example, a bed should be a high priority item while a couch might be lower. Compile all the belongings you have between you and your roommates and slowly work toward other items to buy in the future. Thrifting is a great way to get unique and affordable furniture without breaking the bank.

Comfort items
Blankets, clothes and towels are essential items to start off with which you'll likely have from your time living in the dorms. Most if not all of your items from your previous housing can be brought to the new location to make it more homey and less strange in the beginning. Decorate the space to fit your interests and feel confident and comfortable in your location decision. Bring items like signs and posters, candles, dish towels with unique sayings and more to personalize the space. It may take some time to completely decorate the living space just like with the furniture but each new comfort item is an achievement.

Cleaning supplies
Cleaning supplies are essential with antiseptics, bleach, sponges, scrub brushes, gloves and more greatly helping to clean the place up before moving in. Taking care of an entire apartment with no breaks for spring or summer can mean a lot of maintenance, cleaning and vacuuming. Prepare ahead of time based on total carpeting, the type of kitchen and bathroom cabinets and even the paint on the walls. All of these details will affect how easy it is to clean and what sort of cleaners and scrubs you should be using in order not to cause damage.

Conclusion
Moving off campus can be a scary ordeal with a lot of unknown factors, from dealing with a new environment to new neighbors. With enough informed preparation and knowledge when choosing a State College apartment and the ability to make a cohesive list and communicate with roommates, moving into your new apartment can be a wonderful time of change and independence.

Nevins Real Estate Management rents apartments in State College. Contact them at 814-238-0153 to learn more.

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March 28, 2025
Smart, Stylish, and Stress-Free Guide To State College Apartments
March 14, 2024
As thousands of Penn State University students embark on the journey of finding their perfect State College apartment, the process can seem daunting, especially for those navigating this terrain for the first time. To shed light on this critical transition, we spoke with Matt Perkins, the General Manager at Nevins Real Estate Management in State College , who has been assisting students in finding their ideal apartment in State College for years. Establishing a Budget: The First Step "One of the most significant steps a student can take when entering the off-campus housing market is to establish a budget they're comfortable with," Perkins emphasizes. This initial step is crucial, especially for students who might have financial support from parents or guardians. "The State College apartment market caters to a broad spectrum of budgets. However, without a clear budget, students can quickly become overwhelmed by the options," Perkins says. This piece of advice serves as a cornerstone for students to begin their housing search on solid ground, ensuring they live within their means and avoid financial strain. Location and Price: A Balancing Act When selecting an off-campus apartment, Perkins recommends that students consider the location carefully. "The closer to campus you are, the higher the rent will be. If you're willing to take a bus or endure a longer walk, you might find more affordable options." This advice is vital for students to balance their desire for convenience with their financial realities, possibly leading to significant savings over time. Navigating the Application Process "The application process varies between management companies in State College," Perkins notes, advising students to contact management companies directly to fully understand application requirements. This proactive approach can smooth the path to securing an apartment, preventing last-minute hiccups that could jeopardize their housing plans. Lease Agreements: Read and Understand A critical aspect that Perkins highlights is the importance of thoroughly reading lease agreements. "Students often overlook key clauses. It's essential to understand what you're signing, as these clauses protect all parties involved." He underscores that lease terms are rarely negotiable, so understanding and accepting these terms before signing is paramount for a happy rental experience. Effective Communication with Landlords To address issues like maintenance requests, Perkins advises following the management company's set procedures. "In cases where your initial request isn't addressed promptly, don't hesitate to follow up," Perkins says. This approach ensures that concerns are dealt with efficiently, maintaining the quality of the living environment. Security Measures: Stay Alert Don't overlook the importance of security for students living off-campus. "Be aware of your surroundings," Perkins emphasizes. "Problems often arise from non-residents. Being cautious about who enters your apartment is crucial for your safety." This advice is a reminder of the shared responsibility in maintaining a secure living environment. Creating a Comfortable and Personalized Living Space Living off-campus offers a unique opportunity to create a space that reflects your personal style and meets your needs. Unlike the often restrictive rules of dorm living, off-campus apartments allow for greater freedom in decoration and customization. Embrace this opportunity to make your apartment feel like home. Invest in comfortable furniture, plants, and personal touches that inspire relaxation and productivity. However, always be mindful of your lease agreement's terms regarding modifications to ensure any changes you make are permissible. Engaging with the Community Living off-campus doesn't mean you have to be disconnected from the vibrant Penn State community. Take advantage of the numerous events, clubs, and activities on campus. Additionally, explore State College itself, which offers a variety of local shops, cafes, and community events. Engaging with both the university and local community can enhance your college experience, providing a well-rounded social life beyond academics. Managing Living Expenses One of the realities of off-campus living is the need to manage living expenses carefully. Utilities, groceries, and other monthly expenses can add up quickly if not monitored. Perkins suggests setting up a budget for these expenses and sticking to it. Consider using apps or spreadsheets to track your spending and identify areas where you can cut costs, such as opting for more energy-efficient appliances or cooking meals at home rather than eating out. Building a Supportive Living Environment For many students, living off-campus means having roommates. This arrangement can be a fantastic way to share expenses and create a supportive living environment. To ensure peace, it's crucial to establish clear communication and set shared expectations early on. Discuss topics like cleaning responsibilities, quiet hours, and guest policies to avoid misunderstandings. Remember, effective communication and compromise are key to a positive roommate relationship. Safety First Lastly, never underestimate the importance of safety in your off-campus living situation. Perkins's advice to be aware of your surroundings is especially pertinent here. Take proactive steps to ensure your State College apartment is secure, such as using proper lighting outside your apartment, not letting strangers into your building, and keeping your doors locked. Familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and campus resources available to you in case of an emergency. Living in an off-campus State College apartment presents an exciting opportunity to grow independently, create a personalized living space, and engage with the broader community. By applying the insights shared by Perkins and adopting a proactive and responsible approach to your living situation, you can make the most of your off-campus experience. Enjoy the freedom, embrace the responsibilities, and make lasting memories during your time in State College.
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