5 Steps to Finding Your Future Isla Vista Home

Sarah Vitug:

Finals are here and our brains are reaching maximum capacity. But the pressure’s on and finding next year’s perfect pad just might tip the scale. Don’t fret, yet… keep these pointers in mind (that’s if your brain can handle it) when house hunting, and surely, you’ll be in good condition.

5.) Proximity to campus, beach, food places, etc.

Have a target location set so that you can manage your time wisely and spend it exactly where your heart’s desire leads you. If you insist on scoring one on the 65 block of Sabado, then don’t waste your time meandering through the 67 block Sueno, ok?! The point is, KNOW what you want, how much you value it, and act ACCORDINGLY.

How far do I want to live from campus?

How close do I want to be to the parties?

How much does an ocean view mean to me?

How badly will I want fast food at my fingertips?

4.) Budget

Have more than just a “range” when discussing money with landlords. Be specific. Know your limits and stick to it. This might be intimidating to some, but understand that prices are on the RISE and you gotta be upfront with yourself. If you know something is way beyond your budget, move on… there surely is better fit for you out there. Here’s what you should ask yourself:

How much am I willing to pay a month?

Is this place owned by a private landlord or though a company?
(*Private landlords tend to be less expensive than bigger companies)

Does this landlord have any other units that I can check out?

Is this place really worth it??

3.) Amenities, utilities, parking, perks…

Every place in IV seems to run its own course. Some landlords are nicer than others. Some care, some don’t. Get real, and get these questions about the real estate answered. Knowing exactly how much “bang” for your buck you’ll be getting is crucial.

Does this place have a sufficient amount of parking space?

Does this place have a washer/dryer?

Does this place come with complementary water, internet, cable, gas, electricity?

Does this place have a dish washer?

What else does this place have to offer? A pool, gym, big font/back yard?

Will current tenants be leaving any furniture behind?

2.) Potential Housemates

Trying to figure out who you might want to live with can be a pain. People say becoming roommates with your best friend ruins a friendship… Do your best and just make sure that the people you choose to live with aren’t complete psycho-paths… The point is, choosing the quantity of your housemates is just as important as choosing the quality of your housemates. Remember to ask yourself:

How many people do I want to live with?

How many bedrooms does this place have?

How many bathrooms does this place have?

Is there ample sink/mirror space if number of bathrooms is limited?

Does the size of the common rooms (living room/kitchen) seem proportional to the number of people I want to live with?

Can I trust all of my potential housemates with paying their financial share?

1.) The clock is ticking so pick your place ASAP

Time is running out and all the prime locations might be off the market by now! Most students are well underway with their house hunt, so if you haven’t already begun… this mustn’t be put off (like studying for finals!). You don’t want to be stuck living somewhere that will make everyday dreadful! Coming back from winter break without knowing exactly where you’ll reside next year can be a major setback on your house hunt. So go ahead… knock on those doors that catch your eye and ask if they’ll be living there next year!

Good luck!

For related articles check out: The Coolest Houses in Isla Vista or Housing Crunch – Perspectives on Renting in Isla Vista