Off-Campus Apartments: Convincing Your Parents Its Time to Move

Deciding to move into off-campus apartments is a decision that students will most likely have to make with their parents. In order to properly convince them of your decision, it’s important that you prepare what you have to say in advance.

Picture this: You’ve just survived your freshman year of college. Your dorm experience was ok and your roommate wasn’t completely crazy. Now entering your Sophomore year, you’re ready to spread your wings and maximize your sacred college experience by moving into your own apartment. However, before you take flight, there are some serious things you must consider.

Searching for an off-campus apartment is similar to shopping for a new car: the thought of it’s thrilling, but the details can be a bit overwhelming. Also, finding the apartment is only half the battle; you’ve still got to get the “stamp of approval” from your parents, since they probably will be paying for it.

When your research is finished and you think you’ve found the one, it’s time to present your findings to your parents. Make sure you highlight these three key points somewhere in your presentation to them:

Facts

Start off with the fact that living off campus is cheaper than living on campus. Then divulge into the benefits of having your own place (responsibility, freedom, experience, etc.). Get creative and add in some personal testimony from your friends or family members who have had their own apartments in college. The point is to erase any doubt in their minds that this is a bad idea.

Finances

You want your parents to say yes, right? So they need to feel like they are getting the most for their money. Don’t forget to juxtapose on-campus to off-campus costs, so your parents can get a visual of where their money is going. Don’t limit your finances to just rent either; your findings should include utilities and leisure costs. Use this financial quiz to evaluate whether you can afford to live off campus, before talking to your parents. Use the results of the quiz in your family discussion and prove you’re truly able to afford off-campus housing.

Safety

Is the apartment in a gated complex? Is there an officer on duty 24/7? Is the apartment in a not-so-good part of town? These are all reasonable questions any parent would want to know, especially if your college is out-of-state. Besides convincing your parents to let you move, wouldn’t you want to know these same things for your own peace of mind? After all, you’ll be the one living there, not them. During the presentation, show your parents the extra steps you will take to make sure you’re safe.

These are just a few pieces of evidence you can use when convincing your parent it’s time to move. Now, it’s your turn, let us know how you convinced your parents to move or how you would go about convincing them if you haven’t made the move yet. Sound off in the comment section below.