Divison of Student Affairs
CSUN HEART
Divison of Student Affairs
CSUN HEART
Home – CSUN with A HEART – Resources – Housing Stability – Off-Campus Housing Navigation Resources

Off-Campus Housing Navigation Resources

Finding Local Apartments and Potential Roommates

If you are a CSUN student looking for off-campus housing, the following non-affiliated resources may be of support.

Please note, California State University, Northridge does not endorse the listings contained herein. The information is provided only as an aid in your search for housing. It is the responsibility of the prospective tenant or renter to determine the suitability of the off-campus housing options listed. CSU Northridge does not conduct site visits or inspections of listed rental locations. Additionally, the University does not make any recommendations nor assume any responsibility for the businesses or referrals listed. Students are under no obligation to use the above services or rent from companies listed/ engage with individuals seeking potential roommate arrangements. Students are strongly encouraged to use due diligence and to obtain references and other information regarding listings and facilities. Below are some helpful tips when searching for off-campus rental options.

Tips When Looking for Off-Campus Rentals

  1. Are you looking for a room or an apartment to rent?
  2. What is your housing budget? Consider deposits, move-in costs and utilities as well.
  3. Do you have any pets? Please know that most places will require a pet deposit and monthly pet rent.
  4. Do you have reliable transportation?
    --> If not, how far from CSUN are you willing to live, depending transportation?
    --> Consider living nearby public transportation routes to get to and from CSUN.
  5. What is your timeline to move, e.g., when do you plan to move into your new space, and how long do you intend to stay in a particular place?

  1. How long is the lease?
  2. What is the security deposit amount and when is it due?
  3. How are maintenance and repairs handled?
  4. What is the policy for renewing the lease or moving out?
  5. What is the screening process for tenants?
  6. Are utilities included in the rent?
  7. Are guests allowed?
  8. Are pets allowed?
  9. Does the unit come with a parking space?
  10. Are there any other fees to consider beyond rent and utilities?

  1. What is your monthly income?
  2. What is your budget for a room/apartment? Is this budget inclusive of utilities?
  3. Have you had difficulties paying your rent on-time before? Any past evictions?
  4. What does your schedule look like? School, work and sleep schedule may be important considerations.
  5. Do you have any pets/emotional support animals/service animals that you will be bringing with you?
  6. Do you have a timeframe as to how long you might want to rent this space?
  7. What are your expectations around guests and visitors?
  8. Do you have any potential concerns or “deal breakers”?

  1. Beware of deals that seem too good to be true: If you come across a listing that is significantly cheaper than average, it could be a scam.
  2. Visit the property in person: scammers often use fake pictures or descriptions.
  3. Do not fill out an application or lease agreement prior to viewing the unit and meeting your potential landlord.
  4. Only provide the application fee after a contract has been offered/signed.
  5. Trust your gut! If something feels off, do not rent there.
  6. If you suspect a potential rental scam or fraud, you can report to the Federal Trade Commission.
  7. Refer to the Best Colleges Student Renters Guide.
  8. Refer to California Tenants – A Guide to Residential Tenants & Landlord Rights.

Housing Navigation Support

Housing Navigation can be provided for CSUN students who currently have safe and secure housing and the financial resources to support their housing needs, however at the same time, may need some additional guidance in securing a new housing solution.

  • Identification of strategies to address barriers to obtain housing, for example, exploring financial aid options and/or development a household budget.
  • Assistance identifying off-campus housing websites, search engines, Facebook groups and others.
  • Guidance with identifying and securing supporting documentation that may be required as part of rental application process.
  • Support when preparing for meetings with potential landlords, including questions to ask a landlord, and questions that might be asked by a landlord from the student.

  • We do not complete or submit applications/documentation on behalf of students.
  • We do not tour or assess potential rental properties, nor do we provide reviews of contracts/rental agreements.
  • We do not provide legal advice regarding landlord/tenant issues. Students may contact the Student Legal Support Clinic through Associated Students to explore the possibility of this type of support.

If you would like to request housing navigation support, please fill out the Housing Stability Support Application.

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