First plunge into college life and your new apartment

As a young renter, choosing the right type of housing during college comes with its challenges. Not only do you have to work very hard in school to get a good education, you also have to adjust to a whole new way of life that comes with paying rent and utility bills. Not easy, I know, yet looking back, I’d say it’s a defining experience; a sort of rite-of-passage into adulthood, there’s no way to go around it.

If you come from a background where somebody else used to handle the details of running a home, you’re probably not acquainted to some of the issues related to renting.

What to do first?

The first things to consider when looking for a new home are affordability, location and amenities. If you find a place that suits your personality and lifestyle but you cannot really afford it, consider getting a roommate. It’s an easy way to split expenses, share experiences and have fun.

Types of housing

Housing in Chicago is extremely diverse and varies a lot in terms of architecture, layout and amenities. You may choose to rent a condo or a studio apartment if you’re more of a lonely rider or join a group of friends and rent a house together to shelter all your parties and study sessions.

Most student-friendly apartment buildings feature nice recreational areas, gyms, media rooms and laundry centers where residents may enjoy convenience and a sense of community. Landlords usually take care of home maintenance issues, the property’s mechanical systems, plumbing, yard work, redecoration and repairs.

Best places to live in Chicago

There is no simple answer to this question as there are so many lovely neighborhoods in the city, each with its unique character and heartbeat. But if you don’t want to rely solely on auto travel, you should focus on the areas that are in close vicinity to your school. If you’re going to the University of Chicago for instance, you should concentrate all your efforts on finding a place in Hyde Park. You’ll get to school with minimal hassle and will have plenty of shops and grocery stores on the way to spend those extra bucks you’ve saved on transportation.