There are many reasons California is a sought-after area to live in. Aside from the undeniably attractive climate, it’s close to the infamous USC (University of California). It’s here you’ll discover a variety of courses and programs, including majors and minors, a vibrant campus life, diverse food and culture, and Hollywood!
Whatever your reason for wanting to be near USC, there are plenty of factors to consider when sourcing housing in this area. From beginning your search early to researching the options available to decide on a budget, these tips will help you secure a house in your desired location. Read on to discover more.
1. Start Searching Early
When searching for housing near USC, you must begin your search early. This is particularly important if you’re moving at a busy time of year, such as the start of a new term or in the summer months. To put this interview perspective, 47000 students currently study at USC, which means the competition for housing is high. Getting in early is key if you want to secure a quality place in a good location.
If you leave your property search until the last minute, you may have to settle for lodging that isn’t up to your standards, is overpriced, or sits in the wrong location. All of these factors can affect your quality of life and your happiness.
2. Consider Various Housing Options
Instead of setting your sites on one type of housing, explore your options. This may open your horizons. One-bed apartments can be more costly than shared housing, whilst on-campus accommodation is hassle-free for those who intend to study long hours. Write a list of your accommodation and location requirements before beginning your search. This will help to whittle down the housing that isn’t suited to your needs or those of your families.
If you need to stick to a budget, you can even look into a homestay opportunity. Aside from lowering costs, this is a great way to immerse yourself in a more cultural experience and meet the locals at the same time.
3. Embrace Online Resources
From social media to real estate websites to university housing services, there are various online resources at your disposal. These handy and insightful resources provide rental listings, housing groups, and official housing services. These are great places to look if you require assistance finding accommodation.
If you’re not yet in the area, you can sign up for groups and forums before your move. This will allow you to ask questions, meet like-minded people, and even find housemates or rooms and apartments for rent.
4. Set Your Budget
Setting a budget in advance of looking for housing will ensure you avoid disappointment. It will also ensure you don’t waste pressure time reviewing housing options below or above your price point.
When considering your budget, factor in what you will spend on groceries, utility bills, gas prices, and university fees. This will help you to set a realistic budget. If this is your first time moving to this area, you may find certain items are less or more expensive than what you’re used to.
If you’re on a budget, it may be worth searching for accommodation in areas a little further afield. These are often lower in the rental cost, yet providing they have good transport links, or you own your vehicle, they can be an affordable option. Alternatively, look for shared accommodation closer to USC. You’ll be splitting the bills with others, which keeps costs down.
5. Arrange Inspections
You must arrange an inspection before signing the lease or agreement for a new home. If you cannot be in the area yourself, ask a friend, agent, or family member to attend an inspection on your behalf. Alternatively, you can arrange a video viewing. This is particularly beneficial if overseas.
If you sign for a property based on pictures alone, you may be in for a surprise when you move in. It’s impossible to get a feel for the neighborhood and the property condition unless you view it in person.
When viewing properties, always ask questions. These could regard the lease terms, the utilities, the shared areas, cleaning rotas, and how long the rental agreement is. In addition, look at local bus and transport links, restaurants, shops, medical centers, and gyms. The answers to these questions will help you determine whether the property and location suit you.
The Bottom Line
There are plenty of reasons to live in Southern California, and being close to USC is certainly one of them, especially if you’re studying at this institution or have family about to enroll at this university.
If you enjoy residing in a city boasting a vibrant lifestyle with numerous opportunities, Los Angeles is an ideal choice. To give insight into its popularity, it’s currently home to over 12.8 million people. Your quality of living, however, comes down to your accommodation.
Following the tips above will give you a better chance of finding suitable housing. The main aim is to find accommodation close to USC that meets your budget and lifestyle requirements.
