{"id":16856,"date":"2025-09-18T08:42:21","date_gmt":"2025-09-18T13:42:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/uwm.edu\/housing\/rental-process-guide\/"},"modified":"2026-04-14T08:31:34","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T13:31:34","slug":"rental-process-guide","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/uwm.edu\/housing\/off-campus-housing\/rental-process-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"The 51ÁÔÆæ Off-Campus Rental Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The 51ÁÔÆæ Off-Campus Rental Guide<\/h1><\/header>\n\n\n

Curiously exploring your housing options? This guide provides a clear roadmap for the entire process\u2014from your first apartment visit to signing the final lease. We recommend starting your search two to three months<\/strong> before your move-in date to ensure you have the best selection.
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The Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Step 1<\/a><\/div>
Complete the Preferred Tenant Program<\/div>
Before you move off-campus, we strongly encourage you to complete the Preferred Tenant Program (PTP)<\/strong>. This free, self-paced course is available online via Canvas and prepares you for the responsibilities of independent living.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 2<\/div>
Evaluate Your Lifestyle Needs<\/div>
Living independently involves more than just picking a room. Consequently, you should consider the extra responsibilities like paying utilities, shoveling snow, and maintaining good neighbor relations. Ask yourself what environment you specifically need to succeed academically.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 3<\/div>
Roommates<\/div>
Maintaining a healthy relationship with roommates is vital for a stress-free year. To avoid future conflicts, we recommend that you and your roommates complete a Roommate Agreement<\/strong>. By outlining standards for cleaning, guests, and noise now, you ensure everyone\u2019s needs are met later.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 4<\/div>
Budgeting and Finances<\/div>
When calculating your costs, remember that rent is only one part of the equation. You must also budget for:

Utilities:<\/strong> Internet, water, heat, and electricity.

Daily Living:<\/strong> Groceries, laundry, and household supplies.

Commuting:<\/strong> Parking fees or transit costs.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 5<\/div>
Determine “Needs” vs “Wants”<\/div>
Before browsing listings, list your “must-haves” versus your “nice-to-haves.” Decide which amenities are essential for your daily life and which ones you can comfortably live without to save money.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 6<\/a><\/div>
Search & Showings<\/div>
You can search for available apartments on the 51ÁÔÆæ platform, College Pads. Once you have found a unit you are interested in, we recommend reaching out to the landlord to set up a showing. Use showings as an opportunity to inspect the property thoroughly. Additionally, you should take your own photos and videos and ask the landlord any questions not covered in the original listing.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 7<\/div>
Submit a Rental Application<\/div>
After finding a unit you like, request a rental application. Landlords typically run credit and background checks, so prepare your financial and rental history in advance. Note that credit reports usually cost around $20<\/strong> and remain valid for 30 days.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 8<\/a><\/div>
Review and Sign a Lease<\/div>
Never sign a lease until you fully understand the terms. If you have questions about your lease, reach out to Law for Learners for free help and legal advice! Remember, once you sign, you are legally committed to the terms.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 9<\/a><\/div>
Move-In Checklist<\/div>
Student safety is a priority in our community. Before you move in, watch our neighborhood safety video to learn how to be a responsible resident. Once you have moved in, use a check-in sheet to document any existing damage within your first seven days<\/strong> to protect your security deposit.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 10<\/div>
Living Off-Campus<\/div>
Your new home comes with many moving parts. Stay on top of your responsibilities\u2014from trash pickup days to following local ordinances\u2014to ensure a smooth experience for you and your neighbors.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Step 11<\/div>
Plan Your Move-Out<\/div>
While moving out is the final step, it can feel overwhelming if you don’t plan ahead. Start your move-out preparations early to ensure you return the keys on time and leave the unit in good condition.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n
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Useful Information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Average Rent Prices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Average rent per person as of March 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bedroom Type<\/th>Monthly Rent per Person<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Studio<\/td>$1,344<\/td><\/tr>
1 bedroom<\/td>$1,052<\/td><\/tr>
2 bedroom<\/td>$589<\/td><\/tr>
3 bedroom<\/td>$613<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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