Student Travel

Do your best to find housing long before your arrival in the U.S. In many cases, your employer may have recommendations for short- or long-term housing near your workplace. If you are beginning the search on your own, use the resources below. Most importantly, don’t arrive in the U.S. without any pre-arranged housing.

For the first few nights in the U.S. you may need short-term housing. Hostels, affordable motels, or universities and colleges are good options. It’s even better if you can travel and share expenses with other CIEE Work & Travel USA students. Make reservations ahead of time to make sure you have a bed or room when you arrive.

When planning your long term-housing, consider living with other CIEE Work & Travel students -- this is a great way to make new friends and save money. Also consider whether or not the housing is furnished, includes utilities, and whether it is close to work or is close to public transportation, as these can all affect your monthly costs.

Rent, Sublet, or Share?

When you start looking for a place to live, you will find apartments that are available to rent, sublet, or share.

• Rent

When you rent an apartment you sign a lease, or contract, with a landlord. Pay close attention to the lease agreement, as there may be penalties for breaking the contract. For example, if you lease an apartment for four months but decide to leave after two months, there may be a financial penalty in addition to your rent.

CIEE strongly encourages you to find an apartment where the lease is month-to-month, and avoid long-term leases with firm rules and commitments.

• Sublet

A sublet is an apartment or room rented by the owner or leaseholder to another person. Finding a sublet is a good option because it gives you flexibility similar to a month-to-month lease.

• Share

If you share an apartment you will pay a portion of the rent and common apartment expenses. This can be easier than looking for a place yourself. If you decide to share an apartment, make sure to meet your possible roommate to get a feel for the situation. Your first instinct is always your best, and you should not accept a situation that you don’t feel comfortable with.

Questions to Ask

When looking at options, consider the following questions:

• What is the lease length?
• Are utilities included?
• Is furniture provided?
• Is it within walking distance of my job?
• Is it near public transportation?
• How accessible are stores, banks, entertainment, etc.?
• What's the average rent for a place this size in the neighborhood?
• How soon can I move in?
• How much do I have to pay before I move in (security deposit, first month's rent, etc.)?
• Is it safe? Do not accept the landlord's word. Be sure you are satisfied with the security of the neighborhood and the apartment/house itself. You can also ask other people for their opinion. Trust your instincts!
• Does it have laundry facilities?

Signing a Rental Agreement (Lease)

If you rent or sublet, you should make sure you sign a rental agreement. Keep a copy for yourself. A rental agreement may be optional, but you should still insist on signing one. The contract should define the terms you are agreeing to, including rental amount and dates, and protects the tenant and landlord. Before you sign any rental agreement, be sure to read it carefully and get an explanation of any terms that are unclear. Remember that only written information on a rental agreement makes an official legal contract.

Many leases last for one year so look for a lease that will allow you to rent month-to-month or for a shorter term. Do not sign a lease for a period longer than you think you are going to stay in the housing, because you may be charged a fee for breaking the lease if you move out early.

Security Deposits

All states allow landlords to collect a security deposit when a tenant moves in. Security deposits are usually one month's rent. Your security deposit will be returned to you when you leave, as long as there has been no damage to the apartment during your occupancy and you fulfilled the lease agreement. It is a very good idea to inspect your new apartment with your landlord before signing an agreement. Be sure to get a written record of existing damages and a list of all included furnishings and their condition. You can also take photos of the apartment's condition when you first move in to make a visual record.

Budgeting

When looking for an apartment, know how much you can afford to pay for housing and think about your additional living and entertainment expenses. Be smart with your budget so that you have enough money left for food and other necessities after you pay your rent. Make sure you have enough money to pay the first month’s rent and security deposit when you arrive in the U.S.

Eviction

"Eviction" means being removed from your housing, and there are many reasons your landlord can do this, including: not paying rent on time, making too much noise, or damaging property. If you are evicted from your housing, you should get an eviction notice and be given a deadline to leave the housing.

Do not let eviction happen to you! Be respectful of your living situation. This means paying the rent on time, taking care of your property, and following all of the rules in your lease or living agreement. If you have any concerns, talk to your landlord or the person responsible.