This post has been updated current information for 2022
So, you’ve got the next year all figured out with your roommates lined up with the perfect place when somebody jumps ship. Somebody breaks up with somebody else; old friends who had each other’s backs for years now want to kill each other; your best friend found Vishnu and now sells elephant stickers at the airport. Hey, stuff happens, especially when it comes to student rentals in Athens Ohio. That’s what college is all about. Don’t panic. Here’s how to think on your feet and land standing up.
If You’re the Only One Left
You’ve got a three-bedroom Athens Ohio rental lined up, everyone’s signed their soul on the dotted line, and every single person flakes out on you. If you’re the only one left standing, it’s probably best to start fresh than find replacements. It’s easier to find somebody who needs a roommate than 2 to 4 roommates. Talk to your landlord to see if you can get out of the lease. They may be more flexible than you think, especially if it’s not totally at the last minute. You can also hit up the Student Legal Services on Court Street for some advice.
You might also consider talking to local realty companies for one bedroom or studio apartment rentals. Athens has a few, though they tend to go pretty quick. A few landlords will also rent a house by the room, which can be ideal if you’re trying to land a single bedroom at the last minute. Who knows, you might even make some new friends!
If You’ve Got a Room to Fill
If you’ve only had one or two roommates flake, don’t worry. You’ve probably got a few friends facing the other side of the housing dilemma – no lease or roommates in sight! First, hit your social networks. Post on Facebook, Twitter, hell, even Yik Yak asking if anybody needs a place. You might want to be selective and not rent to total strangers, depending on how courageous you are. Even for people you know, ask yourself honestly: Can I actually live with this person?
And don’t forget to get the new person’s name on the lease. That way, if they do destructive damage or flake out with unpaid rent, you’re not left holding the bag. Protect yourself legally.
Consider jumping on another lease
As stated earlier, there are some larger five- or six-bedroom houses in Athens that rent by room. Not every student rental works that way, though.
Most bigger rentals – five bedroom spaces and above, typically rent by floor or by the entire complex. But since COVID, many students prefer a smaller rental – two bedrooms being the happy medium. So, if you’re in a spot where your roommates have flaked, maybe consider signing on to a lease on a larger rental with missing people – say, four people in a five-bedroom house.
There are so many upsides to living in a larger rental. But benefits aside, you need to just focus on not being homeless. This method may be your best way to avoid that. Plus, if the rental comes with a yard and a parking space, are you really going to have much to complain about?
So, if you’re caught in a bind and need to find a space quick, consider filling up an empty house.