Douglas Olsen
Boston College offers on-campus housing to the majority of its students for three years, with some students receiving four years of guaranteed housing. However, students are required to live off-campus during their junior year. The college provides resources to help students navigate the off-campus housing process, including information sessions and housing fairs. Students are responsible for paying rent and related fees, and leases in Boston typically last for 12 months, from September 1 to August 31 of the following year. To secure a lease, students may need a co-signer or guarantor if they lack a regular source of income or a good credit history.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Boston College Housing | Majority of students receive three years of guaranteed housing. Nursing students, Presidential Scholars, and certain student-athletes receive four years of guaranteed housing. |
| Off-Campus Housing | Students are advised to wait until they arrive in Boston before searching or signing a lease. |
| Rental Process | Students are advised not to sign a lease, provide personal information, or make payments until they have seen the space, reviewed the lease, and made any changes to/inquired about any clauses that are uncomfortable. |
| Rental Requirements | Landlords may ask for a credit report and a U.S.-based guarantor to confirm the availability of funds to pay rent. |
| Lease Agreements | Tenants on the same lease are "jointly and severally liable" for rent payments. Leases are typically 12 months, from September 1 to August 31. |
| Roommate Agreements | Roommate agreements can help prevent conflicts. All tenants are responsible for rent payments. |
| Payment Methods | Boston College accepts payments for courses and fees. Students are individually responsible for paying tuition and fees. |
| Payment Plans | Boston College offers payment plans for delinquent accounts. Failure to comply may result in referral to a collection agency or attorney. |
| Housing Fairs | Off-Campus Student Living hosts housing fairs and information sessions to help students find apartments. |
| Housing Costs | Rental costs near Boston College vary, with studios starting at $2,670 and 6-bed apartments costing up to $8,900. |
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What You'll Learn
Boston College on-campus housing
Boston College is a private Jesuit Catholic research university located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA. The university offers on-campus housing for its students, with most students receiving three years of on-campus housing, with the live-off year taken during their junior year.
On-campus housing at Boston College provides students with convenient access to classes, amenities, and campus life. The university's residence halls offer a range of options, from traditional dorm-style rooms to apartment-style accommodations. These residence halls are typically located within walking distance of the main campus, making it easy for students to get to classes, libraries, and other campus facilities.
Students living in on-campus housing at Boston College can expect a range of amenities and services. These may include furnished rooms, common areas, laundry facilities, and access to dining options. Some residence halls may also have additional features such as gyms, study lounges, and recreational spaces. Boston College also provides resources and support services for students living on campus, such as residential advisors, maintenance staff, and community-building events.
The cost of on-campus housing at Boston College is typically included in the overall cost of attendance. Students can expect to pay for housing and meal plans as part of their tuition fees. Boston College provides information on tuition and fees through their Office of Student Services, where students can learn about payment plans, financial aid, and any additional costs associated with on-campus housing.
For students who choose to live off-campus, Boston College offers resources and support to help them navigate the rental process. The university hosts off-campus housing fairs and provides an online database for rental listings. They also offer guidance on lease agreements, roommate situations, and understanding tenant rights and responsibilities. Boston College encourages students to conduct thorough research, be cautious of scams, and make informed decisions when considering off-campus housing options.
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Off-campus housing fairs
Boston College provides a range of resources to help students with off-campus housing. The Office of the Dean of Students hosts Undergraduate Student Off-Campus Housing Fairs in October and February each year, and a Graduate & Law Student Off-Campus Housing Fair in May/June. These fairs are designed to help students find their next apartment rental and provide an opportunity to meet with rental agencies, internet providers, and furniture rental companies.
The Off-Campus Housing Database is also an essential resource for students, allowing them to review apartment listings, find roommates, and add sublet listings. Additionally, the university hosts information sessions for undergraduate and graduate students to educate them about the process of moving off-campus, including tips on researching the rental market, finding roommates, and understanding lease agreements.
It is recommended that students begin their search for off-campus housing early, up to three months in advance of their desired tenancy. Students should be aware of Boston's zoning ordinance, which prohibits more than four unrelated undergraduate students from living together in an apartment or house. Leases in Boston typically last for 12 months, from September 1 to August 31, and students are encouraged to negotiate an early move-in date if possible.
There are also flexible housing options to consider, such as subleasing, renting a room in a private home, or using short-term housing options like Airbnb. Students should be prepared to provide a credit report and/or a U.S.-based guarantor when applying for rentals, and to insist on having all agreements and payments in writing.
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Renting without a regular income
Understanding the Challenges
Firstly, it's important to recognize that landlords are often dependent on the rental income they receive, so they want assurance that tenants can pay rent in full and on time. This is why rental agreements typically require proof of income and a good credit history. Without a regular income, you might find it more difficult to secure your desired rental property, but there are alternative options to consider.
Providing Alternative Proof of Financial Stability
Even without a traditional paycheck, you can still demonstrate financial stability to landlords. Here are some suggestions:
- Bank Statements and Savings: If you have a substantial amount of savings or other financial assets, you can show bank statements, investment portfolios, or proof of savings to assure landlords that you can pay rent consistently.
- Unemployment Benefits: If you're receiving unemployment benefits, you can use this as proof of monthly income. It also shows how long you'll be receiving these benefits, giving landlords an idea of your commitment timeframe.
- Other Income Sources: If you have income from sources like freelance work, rental properties, or investments, you can provide bank statements or tax returns as proof.
- Co-Signers or Guarantors: If you have someone willing to co-sign or guarantee the lease, this can significantly strengthen your application. They will be held responsible for any unpaid rent or financial obligations that you may be unable to meet. However, be mindful that this could negatively affect your relationship with them if issues arise.
- Reference Letters: If you have a history of paying rent on time, ask previous landlords to provide reference letters confirming your reliability as a tenant.
- Future Income: If you're expecting income from a job offer with a start date in the near future, you can provide a letter or contract from your employer as proof of your impending income.
Strategies for Finding Accommodations
- Individual Landlords: Look for individual landlords who may be more flexible than larger property management companies. Communicate openly about your financial situation, and explore options that work for both parties.
- Rental Requirements: Some rental properties may not have strict income requirements. Search for accommodations that don't emphasize proof of income in their application process.
- Security Deposits: If you need a short-term rental, consider offering a higher security deposit. This may incentivize landlords to accept your application, but always check your state laws regarding security deposit limits.
- On-Campus Options: If you're a student, consider on-campus housing options, which may have different financial requirements and could provide more flexibility.
Remember, while these strategies can improve your chances of renting without a regular income, the specific requirements and considerations may vary between landlords and states. It's always a good idea to be vigilant, maintain a good credit score, and be transparent about your financial situation.
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Roommate agreements
Boston College offers advice and guidance to students on off-campus living, including roommate agreements. The college recommends that students do not sign a lease until they have viewed the property and are happy with the lease agreement. Leases in Boston typically last 12 months, from September 1 to August 31, and students are advised to negotiate an early move-in date as classes start before September 1.
The college also recommends that students draft a roommate agreement at the start of living together, which can help to prevent future conflicts. A template for this can be found on the college website. The agreement should not conflict with the terms of the lease. Students should also be aware that tenants on the same lease are usually "jointly and severally liable" for the unit, meaning that if one roommate cannot pay their share of the rent, the others are responsible for covering it.
Students are encouraged to do some prep work before moving in with a roommate, including sharing basic information and discussing expectations about sharing belongings, noise, guests, sleeping and studying habits, and cleaning and hygiene.
Boston College also provides information on finding roommates and selecting housing. Students can access the Housing Application via the My ResLife link on the Agora Portal and are encouraged to have conversations with potential roommates about living styles and forming a group. The college also hosts off-campus housing fairs in October and February to help students find rentals.
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Renting with a guarantor
Boston College students may need to consider renting with a guarantor if they do not have a regular source of income or a good credit history.
A guarantor, also known as a co-signer, is someone who agrees to pay the rent and take on the financial obligations of the lease if the tenant is unable to do so. This includes not only the monthly rent but also move-in and move-out fees, late fines, and other rent charges. For landlords, a guarantor offers assurance that the rent will be paid and their risk is mitigated.
To qualify as a guarantor, an individual will need to provide proof of income, bank statements, and identification for a credit and background check. Typically, guarantors are parents, relatives, or close friends of the tenant. However, there are also guarantor companies that can be hired, although these services are often expensive.
If a Boston College student is considering renting with a guarantor, it is important to be transparent about the responsibilities and provide all the necessary information to help the guarantor understand the commitment. Additionally, students should ensure they have seen the rental space and reviewed the lease before signing any agreements. They should also feel comfortable with all the clauses and insist that everything be put in writing.
There are alternatives to renting with a guarantor. For example, offering a larger security deposit or prepaying several months' rent can demonstrate financial reliability and convince landlords to waive the need for a guarantor. Providing documentation, such as proof of income, savings, and a good credit report, can also help address any concerns about financial stability.
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Frequently asked questions
Boston College students are individually responsible for paying all fees associated with housing. If a student does not have a regular source of income, they may need a guarantor. Many landlords will ask for a credit report as part of the rental application.
Leases in Boston are typically 12 months in length, lasting from September 1 to August 31 of the following year.
The majority of Boston College students receive three years of guaranteed housing. First-year students live in traditional-style rooms on either Newton Campus, Upper Campus, or Brookline Campus (for Messina College students only).
