Page 44 - UMKC Parent and Family Insider

MOVING OFF CAMPUS
Consider your budget
Decide what you can afford for your student’s monthly living costs and use that figure as a starting point.
Things to research:
Before going online...
Help your student pin down what they have in mind: How many roommates (i.e., how many bed/bathrooms)? Apartment or house? Do they need storage for bikes, skis, etc.? How close to campus would they like to be? Are there safety concerns?
Next, encourage them to utilize local student housing support services. The college housing office may have information about off-campus life. Some property management firms specialize in student rentals and
can be a helpful place to start.
Meet the landlord and see the rental in person
Encourage your student to take a friend along to meet the landlord and confirm that the property is as advertised. This gives your student a chance to ask questions such as: What are typical utility costs? Is subleasing allowed and on what terms?
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What are typical rental rates in the community? You may need to pay more for a well-maintained property.
Can your student afford a single room or will they need to share?
What are typical utility costs? How about “extras” like cable and internet?
Will there be transportation costs to get to campus?
How about furnishings and appliances?
Look closely at food costs. Students who cook for themselves can save money, but for many it’s convenient (and healthier) to keep a partial campus meal plan.