Finding & Securing Housing

Finding an off-campus home is a big step—one that requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. This section walks you through the entire process, from search to signing.

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Finding Housing

  • Where to Search
  • What to Look For
    • Location: Prioritize proximity to campus, public transportation, grocery stores, and safety.
    • Commute: Use Google Maps to estimate transit or walking times.
    • Included Amenities: Does rent include utilities, internet, parking, laundry, or trash pickup?
    • Safety Features: Secure doors, smoke detectors, outdoor lighting, etc.

Securing Housing

  • Evaluating Listings
    • Watch for Scams:
      • Prices that seem too good to be true
      • Landlords asking for payment before showing the unit
      • Vague or unverifiable contact information
    • Tour the Unit (in person or virtually):
      • Check for damage, cleanliness, water pressure, pest issues
      • Test appliances, locks, and outlets
    • Ask Questions:
      • Are utilities included?
      • What’s the lease length?
      • Who handles repairs?
      • Are pets allowed?
    • Talk to Current Tenants or Neighbors:
      • If possible, ask about noise, maintenance response time, and neighborhood safety.
  • Lease Signing

    Be Prepared (Have these ready):

    • Government-issued ID
    • Proof of enrollment
    • Financial aid award letter
    • Bank statements or pay stubs
    • Co-signer (if required)

    Understand the Lease

    • Read carefully: term dates, rent amount, penalties for breaking the lease, guest policies, and responsibilities.
    • Ask for all verbal agreements to be in writing—including repair promises or utility agreements.

    Co-Signer Info

    • Most students will need a guarantor—often a parent or guardian—especially if you don’t have income.
  • Move-In Checklist

    Once you've signed your lease:

    • Document the condition of the unit with timestamped photos/videos.
    • Note any damage and notify the landlord in writing.
    • Store documentation for move-out disputes.
    • Confirm how to pay rent and when utilities start.
  • Provide Info to Vanderbilt (required)

    All off-campus residents, including those who lived off campus the previous year, must update their current local address and phone number in  Your Enrollment Services (YES). This information helps the University reach you in an emergency and gives you access to VandyRide Point to Point Service if you live within a half-mile from campus. 

    How to update your information in YES:

    • Log into YES 

    • Go to Personal Information.

    • Under Local (Mailing) Address:

      • Use Line 1 for your street address.

      • Use Line 2 for your apartment number, city, state, and ZIP code.

    • In the Phone Numbers section, enter your current mobile phone number.

    *Failure to provide your valid local address and phone number by the first day of class will result in a hold being placed on your student account.

    Questions? Contact housing@vanderbilt.edu 

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