1. 📅Start Your Search 2-3 Months in Advance

Timing is important when looking for student housing near USC. To get the best options in the safest and most convenient neighborhoods, it would be better to start searching__ 2-3 months before your move-in date__. Many properties near campus are rented out quickly, especially those that are within USC DPS Area. Planning early ensures you can secure a spot in a desirable area before availability becomes limited.

2. 🔍Research the Area

As an international student, you may not be familiar with the different communities around USC, so talking with senior students, your school’s facebook groups or consulting the international student office can be invaluable! Get insights on which neighborhoods are safer or more convenient. For example, the north and west sides of USC are known for being safer, with quieter environments and new houses that are fully furnished.

Ensure that the room you are considering is legally available for rent and the management team is reliable. You can verify this by working with a trusted property management company like Moo Housinghttps://www.moohousing.com, which specializes in USC student housing.

3.🏠Virtual or In-Person Tours: Know What’s Included

Whenever possible, schedule a virtual or in-person tour of the property before signing anything. This allows you to get a clear idea of what the living space looks like and what amenities are included. For example, some properties may not come fully furnished, and this is something you’ll need to plan for if you don’t want to spend extra time and money on furniture shopping once you arrive. Also, be sure to check what is included in your base rent. Check this list to save your money.

4. 💰Go Through the Contract Thoroughly, Pay the Deposit, and Get Renter’s Insurance

Before finalizing your housing, carefully review the lease agreement. Make sure the terms align with what was discussed, including rent amount, concession, lease duration, and any additional fees like utilities or maintenance. Check for rules about moving out early or subletting, especially if your plans might change.

Once everything looks good, pay the required security deposit to secure the space. Be cautious of deadlines, as delays could cause you to lose your spot.

Lastly, don’t forget to get renter’s insurance. This protects you in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your belongings. Some landlords even require proof of insurance before move-in. It usually takes $10 - $30 per month.

Conclusion

Securing the perfect housing near USC as an international student requires planning, research, and attention to detail. Start your search early, gather insights from reliable sources, and always verify the legitimacy of the property and lease terms.

For a smooth and stress-free experience, consider working with Moo Housing, a trusted management company known for helping students find fully-furnished and high-quality housing near USC. With Moo Housing, you can be confident that your needs will be handled professionally—no surprises, just a comfortable place to call home during your new journey.