What To Consider When Searching For Student Housing

NorthPoint • December 19, 2022

Are you looking for student housing for the upcoming academic year?


Moving out of home and living alone is an important milestone in anyone's life and can often be an intimidating decision for most people. Most students who go through this process will tell you that choosing suitable student housing can be both one of the most exciting and one of the most stressful aspects of the university experience. 


This is because the student housing you live in will not only be where you will be calling home for the next few years, but it will also be a place that will teach you a variety of valuable life skills such as budgeting, cooking, and, most importantly, how to manage adult life.

Making such a big decision requires planning and preparation. That’s why here at NorthPoint, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most important things you need to consider when searching for student housing. 


Budget

Before looking at student residences, you need to consider your budget. As a student, you might not have much money to spend on accommodation, so you’ll need to create a realistic budget and estimate how much you can spend on rent each month. 


If you’re fortunate enough to have some kind of financial support from family or employment and are willing to spend more money on student housing, make sure it is worthwhile and includes everything you will need.


In addition to rent and utilities, students living off-campus should account for the costs of furniture, appliances, and other personal pleasures each month. Also, when you apply to rent a unit, you may also have to pay extra fees, such as a background check. Other unanticipated costs can sometimes be included in leasing agreements, so make sure you read your lease agreement before signing.


Remember that while college dorm rooms are usually the cheapest, you will have to deal with a lack of privacy. Living off-campus in an apartment might be a better option if you value privacy. 


Number of Roommates

Another important factor to consider when searching for student housing is how many people you’re comfortable living with. 

You can generally choose between college dorms, university-managed housing, privately owned halls of residence, a privately rented house, flat with other students, or a privately rented property, which normally sleeps four or five people. 


Before signing the dotted line or even considering viewing student housing, consider who your housemates will be. Since almost everyone has different living habits, it's worth learning more about your potential student housemates' expectations for next year. Will there be a cleaning schedule? How will you cohabitate? 


If you intend to live in a shared apartment with other people, make sure you are familiar with their quirks and habits before deciding to move in. If you and your friends are looking for a place to stay together, look for a place with enough space to give everyone privacy. You can follow our tips for getting along with your roommates to help you figure out how to live together and get along during your college year.


Safety

If you're looking for off-campus housing, think about where you'll be living and observe the surrounding neighborhood to determine if it's safe. Talk to your classmates who live in that area to get a sense of the atmosphere. If it sounds good, go check it out with your potential roommates. Take a walk through the streets to get a sense of the neighborhood where the student housing is located.


You should consider the area you've chosen as well as the security of the building. Some student accommodations are more secure than others in terms of safety. Remember that many locations will have common rooms downstairs that are only accessible to those who live there. It's something you should consider when looking for a place to live.


The property's proximity to your preferred university is another critical deciding factor. Low-cost student housing that requires a long commute to school may cause additional stress and costly expenses. If possible, choose a student housing complex close to your college or university. Aside from being cheaper and more convenient, living close to your university may also help you study because it's easy to get to. This is also important if you have free time between classes.


Don’t let the price of student housing property sway your decision until you’ve considered all these factors to ensure that your college experience is pleasant.


Furnishing and Appliances

Another thing to consider when searching for student housing is furnishings and appliances. You’ll need to research if your prospective student housing will be furnished. 


When education is your primary goal in college, you'd also like to be comfortable and convenient while studying. This is why you should evaluate off-campus housing to see if it has all the features that will enhance your experience.


A student's daily life will be easier with comfortable furniture and functional appliances. Because different types of lodging provide various benefits, evaluating preferred facilities is entirely subjective. 


Depending on the type of accommodations you choose, you may have restrictions on the types and sizes of appliances. For example, you may be limited to a microwave or a small personal refrigerator in most dorm rooms. On the other hand, apartment-style accommodations typically allow you to bring in all of your own appliances. Also, ensure you coordinate with roommates on what to bring; sometimes, you can share certain appliances. 


If you're sharing a place that already has appliances, find out which ones you're allowed to use. And if you have complete access to the available appliances, ensure they're all in good working order.


Storage

Storage is another important factor to consider when choosing where to live during your college year. Does the place you're considering have storage facilities? If so, are they big enough to meet your needs? These are both important questions to ask before deciding whether the place will be right for you. 


Most college students will need enough storage for textbooks, clothes, personal items, etc. If you can find a place that offers extra storage capacity, it will make things much easier.


Wi-fi

When looking for student housing, make sure the place has a reliable internet connection that’s strong enough to let you take online classes. This can be done by researching the student housing possibilities you've narrowed down or by asking previous residents or tenants about internet speed.


Most college students will need a fast and stable internet connection for research or writing articles online. Also, for students to stay in touch with their families back home, they’ll need a reliable connection to make video calls and communicate online.


During the pandemic, many universities switched to online classes, making more people want safe and reliable internet.


Amenities

When living in student housing, amenities are definitely something you should consider when making your selection. Amenities can enhance your residency experience, safety, and convenience.


Here are some examples of amenities you should consider when looking for a place to live:

  • Entertainment options: For entertainment, consider a smart TV, which you can use to decompress and relax after a long day of studying. The more entertainment options you have, the less monotonous your stay will be.
  • Laundry facilities: These include a washer and dryer. Eliminating the need to travel further to off-site laundromats can save time and money.
  • Heating and cooling systems: Consider a unit with air conditioning to keep you cool, especially in the summer. If you’re living in colder climates such as Idaho, make sure a heating system is installed to keep you toasty in the winter.
  • Parking: Many students drive and require a safe and secure parking spot for their vehicles. If your student accommodation includes a parking spot, this can provide convenient and regular parking.
  • Gym & fitness studios: Having access to a gym or fitness studio, like a yoga studio in your housing complex, is another practical advantage. It can be a motivator to stay fit and healthy while you study. 
  • Shared community spaces: If rooms are used for sleeping and general privacy, then your property requires an area where people can express themselves. A shared community room can generate a strong sense of belonging. A residence that feels like home can make your stay feel comfortable and homey.


Lease Flexibility

The last factor on our list is lease flexibility. Although no one truly enjoys reading the small print in contracts, keep in mind that your contract and the terms are not something you should just gloss over. Make sure you understand how long the contract is, how much the deposits are, and the contractual grace periods if you decide to leave before the end of your lease.


Ever since the pandemic, more and more students are looking for flexible lease terms, like being able to sublet the space or sign leases at a later date, as well as clear information about how to return the rental and any fees that come with it.


It's natural to feel pressed to sign the lease as soon as possible after (finally) finding a place. However, it is critical that you take the time to understand all of the terms and conditions that you are agreeing to.


Your NorthPoint Experience

Moving away from home to live in a new apartment can be both exciting and challenging, and NorthPoint wants you to feel at ease in your new surroundings, especially if this is your first time living on your own! We invite you to visit the best BYU-I-approved housing in Rexburg. 

Now, student housing developments are less of an exception and more of the norm regarding luxury. That’s why we’ve designed each apartment with incredible features such as laundry facilities, multiple sinks and bathrooms, garbage pick-up service, and extra storage. 


Outside our apartment buildings, you'll find music rooms, exercise facilities, gaming rooms, theater rooms, study areas, and more! Plus, there are always fun events happening that you can take part in. We try to ensure that every student feels at home and enjoys the full college experience.


Contact us or call us today, and we will get back to you as soon as possible so you can sign up for an apartment while they are still available. Spaces fill up quickly!

BYU-I Men’s Housing: Unexpected Essentials

By Jenn Handy • October 1, 2025
Before starting your first semester at college, it is important to pack well so you are sufficiently prepared. This helps you start college smoothly, settle in, and manage stress levels effectively. If you have read any articles detailing basic college necessities, then essentials such as school supplies, clothing, and bedding will likely make it into your suitcase. However, some key items tend to be forgotten during the packing process. Discovering some unexpected essentials that you might not have on your packing list yet can help to make your men's housing experience at BYU-Idaho all the more enjoyable. Organizers A well-organized space makes life smoother on multiple fronts. Not only does it make it easier to keep your new home clean and tidy, but it can also support your studying. Multiple studies demonstrate a link between cluttered spaces and decreased mental performance. Investing in a few space-optimized organizing products will allow you to maintain a tidy space that promotes healthy study habits. There’s no shortage of products on the market that can help you maximize your space. Space-saving clothing hangers , drawer organizers, and under-the-bed storage solutions are all effective ways to keep your room from looking and feeling overly “busy,” without having to be too selective about what makes it into your suitcase and what gets left at home. Outlet Options College housing and outlets are a bit like cars and cup holders; there’s never quite as many as you’d like there to be, and in some cases, the ones that are there are located in awkward positions. Yet as a modern college student, you’ll depend on outlets to maintain your academic and social lives, not to mention keeping your sanity in check. Having to decide between charging your laptop and phone is an inconvenience you should not have to endure. You can’t change how many outlets your room has, but you can get creative with how you manage the ones it does have by packing an extension cord and a power strip . The extension cord opens up additional flexibility, allowing you to choose your furniture placement without being confined to outlet location, while a power strip can significantly multiply the number of outlets. Large power strips can power up to twelve devices from a single outlet. Just make sure the outlet has a surge protector, which can help keep your devices safe in the event of a sudden spike in electrical voltage. Rain Protection You might arrive at BYU-Idaho at the tail end of summer, but those warm days will soon give way to fall and winter conditions. Packing with October-March in mind will make your early months at BYU-I all the more enjoyable. Remember: there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. You’ll likely have earmarked space in your luggage for warm clothing, but many newly-arriving students forget that having rain-ready clothes can be just as important for navigating Rexburg’s climate. Make sure to bring a rain jacket, and save it for a rainy day (literally). The weather is famously difficult to predict, but you can prepare for stormy days by investing in an umbrella and keeping it by the door so you do not forget to grab it on your way out to brave the elements. First Aid Supplies Packing first aid supplies is not likely to be at the top of your priorities list, but it can go a long way towards ensuring you can roll with the punches. Dealing with illnesses, allergies, and minor cuts and scrapes becomes much more manageable when you have a few key first aid essentials in your room: Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relief medicine, such as ibuprofen, offers a quick and convenient way to deal with minor aches and pains. If you ever get hit with a headache during your college experience, you’ll be thankful you made space for it in your suitcase. Allergy medicine: Rexburg can be delightful during the spring and fall months, but keep in mind that allergies can begin to flare around this period. Packing some antihistamines will allow you to enjoy all that the season has to offer to the fullest. Bandages and dressings: Accidents happen. A few bandages and dressings will allow you to treat minor cuts and scrapes at home, without having to visit the doctor. Cold and flu medicine: Spending so much time with your fellow students can be fun, but it always increases your chances of catching a cold. Packing some cold and flu medicine will be a lifesaver when you wake up with a sore throat and a runny nose. Transportable Storage Options College students are constantly coming and going. Just as you’ve gotten comfortable, you’ll be heading home for the holidays and or going on a trip for spring break. You’ll find the process of visiting home and other fun spots infinitely less stressful by investing in easily transportable storage that allows you to effortlessly move your belongings from one place to another (and then back again). Some smart solutions include:  Plastic storage bins: They’re strong, stackable, and easy to carry. Portable storage carts: Getting picked up? Storage carts have wheels, allowing you to simply roll your belongings to the car. Duffel bags: For lighter loads, duffel bags offer a convenient and flexible method of transporting your items. Enhance Your BYU-I Men’s Housing Experience At Northpoint, our luxury apartments provide the perfect place to live during your time at BYU-Idaho, providing the space you need to fit all your college necessities and enjoy life to the fullest. Contact us today to learn more about our men's housing availability or to schedule a tour.

Morning Routine Tips for BYU-I Women Living in Shared Housing

By Jenn Handy • June 16, 2025
We share advice for creating a morning routine as a BYU-I student living in shared housing, including planning ahead, getting up quietly, and more.

How to Ace Your First College Presentation

By North Point • February 21, 2025
Success starts with preparation, and at NorthPoint, we’ve got you covered. We share strategies for acing your first college presentation, such as practicing at your BYU-I student housing.

How to Fight Boredom at Your BYU-I Student Housing Complex

By Jenn Handy • February 20, 2025
Looking for your BYU-I-approved student housing? NorthPoint offers incredible amenities, including outdoor areas, an on-site gym, communal study spaces, and regular social events.

Fitness Tips for Busy BYU-I Students

By North Point • February 4, 2025
Whether you utilize the campus fitness center, participate in group classes, or take advantage of the top-notch amenities at NorthPoint, staying active at BYU-Idaho is within reach.

How to Handle Visitors When Living in BYU-I Student Housing

By North Point • December 12, 2024
Like most BYU-I-approved student housing, NorthPoint adheres to visitor policies. Knowing the rules can help prevent conflict with your roommates.

Fall Festivities Near Your BYU-I Student Housing

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NorthPoint Apartments is conveniently located near Rexburg's most popular fall activities. Secure your BYU-I student housing with us today so you can partake in all the seasonal fun.

How to Keep Your BYU-Idaho Housing Clean as a Busy Student

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Keeping your living space tidy when you are busy can be challenging, but there are plenty of ways to save time and improve your efficiency. Try out these tips to see what works best for you.

Balancing Privacy and Social Life in Shared Student Housing

By North Point • August 12, 2024
Sharing student housing with others comes with its challenges. It might be the first time you share a room with others. Having roommates can be an advantage, making getting to know others and having a vibrant social life more effortless. However, you may find it difficult to get alone time. Finding the right balance between privacy and your social life is important. You don't want to be so involved with your roommates that you never get time alone, but at the same time, you don't want to shut yourself away. If you're smart about how you use your time, you can achieve this balance. Setting boundaries, creating your own space, and setting up a schedule with roommates can all help. Why Privacy and Social Interactions Are Important Everyone needs privacy. At college, it helps you maintain your well-being and can be essential for achieving academic success, too. You need space to study in peace and time to examine your thoughts and feelings or just to unwind. But a vibrant social life is just as important, and college gives you the chance to really develop one. Spending time with others is good for your mental health . It helps you avoid loneliness, sharpens your mind, and boosts your mood. It could even help you live longer . Socializing enables you to build connections during college that could last a lifetime. How to Set Boundaries with Roommates Setting boundaries with your roommates is one of the best ways to create personal space for yourself. When you communicate with each other about your needs, you can all devise a solution that works for everyone. If you want to respect each other's boundaries, it's best to be upfront instead of waiting for tensions to rise. Try to have a polite discussion where everyone has their say. Set clear expectations and rules when you move in. These agreements might include dedicated hours for quiet studying or solo time in a shared bedroom. You could also talk about things like keeping the apartment clean and tidy and making sure you each know your responsibilities. It’s wise to draft a quick roommate agreement so you can refer to it later. Sometimes, conflicts and misunderstandings can arise. When this happens, there's no need for drama. If you can approach each other with kindness and understanding, you can get on the same page without fighting or falling out. If you feel compelled to address an issue, avoid being accusatory. Similarly, if your roommates want to discuss something with you, try not to be too defensive and remain open to resolving the concern. If you need help, consider bringing in a neutral third party to help mediate. To prevent problems from building and boiling over, it's a good idea to have regular check-ins. During these brief meetings, you'll have the opportunity to discuss how things are going and how you can collectively improve them for everyone. Creating Personal Space It can be tough to have your own space when you share an apartment and a room with others. But there are ways to do it so you and your roommates can have the personal time and space you need. Some of the steps you could take include: Using room dividers to separate rooms into smaller spaces Making use of noise-canceling headphones to block out noise from others, as well as keep your preferred audio to yourself Setting up a schedule to ensure everyone gets their alone time at some point during the day/week One of the most beneficial things you can have in shared student housing is a space you can retreat to. Even if it's just a corner or a space on your bed, it gives you somewhere to decompress, think, and relax without the pressure of having other people around. Managing Social Activities Your solo time matters, but it's also crucial that you don't retreat too far into your own world. College offers many opportunities to make new friends and create a fantastic social life. At the same time, you need to find a balance and make sure you're not spending too much time socializing instead of studying or recharging your batteries. You might want to get out there and start making friends, but it can be overwhelming. There's so much to do and so many people to meet, and you might feel like you can't miss out on anything. If you want a rich social life without getting overwhelmed, it's important to allow yourself to take a break. Set limits on your social time to ensure you have plenty of personal downtime. Respecting your roommates’ schedules and preferences is essential when planning social events at your apartment. If one of your roommates needs to study, it's not fair for you and your friends to disturb them–especially without warning. Respecting Each Other's Schedule and Space Everyone likes to organize their schedules for study, sleep, and other activities. Respecting each other's schedules helps to create harmony in your apartment. To be respectful of each other's space, try some of these strategies: Set quiet hours and use signals for when you want alone time. Set rules and schedules for using common areas. Schedule usage times and keep these spaces tidy. Be respectful of each other's belongings and personal space within common areas. Private and Shared BYU-Idaho Student Housing Sharing your home with others can be challenging, but you can make it work if you're respectful of each other. Start by aiming to communicate well and show each other respect and understanding. When you can respect each other, you can share your space in a way that works for everyone. Are you looking for the best student housing in Rexburg? Contact NorthPoint to learn about our private and shared student housing options .

Summer in Rexburg: 8 Fun Activities to Try

By North Point • July 16, 2024
Being in an unfamiliar town during the summer can feel frustrating or boring if you aren’t sure how to spend your time. Luckily, there are many fun and exciting things to do in Rexburg if you know where to look.