College breaks can feel like a blessing until you realize you have to somehow deal with your Ohio University off-campus housing. Whether you’re heading home for winter break or staying in Athens for a summer internship, let’s break down your options to get rid of some of that stress!
Common Housing Scenarios During Breaks
If you haven’t yet decided what to do with your housing during breaks, here are some common scenarios that you might find yourself in.
Staying in Athens Over Break
Maybe you’re hoping to snag a summer internship, pick up extra shifts at your job, or take summer classes. Staying put has its perks—you keep your routine, avoid the hassle of moving your stuff twice, and stay close to work or campus. Plus, if you’re working locally, you’ll save on commute time and gas money.
Going Home Temporarily but Keeping Your Lease
This works great for shorter breaks or when you have a year-round lease. You get to enjoy home-cooked meals and family time while keeping your Ohio University off-campus housing secure. If this is what you choose, you’ll need to secure your belongings, unplug electronics to save on energy costs, and set up automatic rent payments so you don’t accidentally miss a due date.
Subletting to Another Student
Subletting can help you recoup some rental costs while helping another student find temporary housing. Just make sure you understand your landlord’s subletting policy first.
Some require written permission, while others have specific rules about who can sublet. If you choose to sublet, always get a written agreement with your subtenant that covers rent, utilities, and house rules.
First, Understand Your Lease Terms
Before deciding what your plan is for the break, check your lease to see if it covers that time or ends when the semester wraps up. Academic year leases typically run from August to May, which means you’re off the hook for summer rent. Year-round leases cover the full 12 months, so you’ll need to figure out what to do with your space during breaks.
Even if you’re not physically at your Ohio University off-campus housing, you might still be responsible for rent, utilities, and basic property maintenance. Some leases have specific clauses about subletting and guest policies during breaks.
Your Guide to College Breaks (Broken Up By Your Decision)
Once you’ve successfully created a plan for your break, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are our top tips for navigating college breaks based on your decision to stay on campus/in your apartment or go back home.
Scenario 1: You Decide to Stay Over Break
If you choose to stay on campus or in your apartment during breaks, here are some things to consider:
- Ask your roommates what their plans are. They might be going home, which could mean you’re flying solo for a while. Make sure you’re comfortable with the arrangement and that you have a plan for shared expenses like utilities.
- Let your landlord know you’ll be staying during breaks. They might have certain rules or procedures in place for break periods, such as locking up common areas or setting thermostat schedules.
- Consider whether you need security measures—you’ll want to be extra careful about locking doors and windows when you’re the only one around.
Scenario 2: You Decide to Go Home
If you decide to go home during breaks, make sure to communicate your plans with your roommates and landlord in advance. Use this brief checklist to ensure a smooth departure:
- Double-check that you have all your belongings and essential items, such as keys, wallet, and phone.
- Turn off any appliances or electronics that you won’t need while you’re away.
- Unplug electronics and consider turning off your water main if you’ll be gone for an extended period.
- Take photos of your Ohio University off-campus housing before leaving—this can be helpful if any issues arise while you’re away.
- Ask your landlord about their policy for entering your unit during breaks. Some do periodic maintenance or inspections, and you’ll want to know what to expect.
Scenario 3: You Decide to Sublet Your Space
Check your lease agreement before you decide to sublet!
If subletting is allowed, consider posting in local Facebook groups, on campus bulletin boards, or asking friends if they know anyone looking for temporary housing. Always screen potential subtenants and get everything in writing. Include details about rent, utilities, house rules, and what happens if something goes wrong.
The upside? You can offset some rental costs and help another student. The downside? You’re still responsible for any damages or issues that arise, so coordinate with your subtenant about logistics.
Scenario 4: You Decide to Find Temporary Housing
If you need a place for just part of the break—maybe you’re doing a summer internship that doesn’t cover the full break period—look into month-to-month rentals, extended stay options, or temporary housing through local student groups.
Some students also offer short-term arrangements through social media groups or campus housing boards. Just make sure any arrangement is legitimate and safe.
Bonus Tips to Plan Ahead for Next Year
Have you realized your Ohio University off-campus housing isn’t working out and you want to plan ahead for next year? We’ve created a quick list of questions to ask potential landlords:
- What is the rent amount and what does it include (utilities, furniture, parking, etc.)?
- Are there laundry facilities in the building or nearby?
- Is the apartment close to public transportation or within walking distance of campus?
- How long is the lease term and are there options for subletting during summer breaks?
- What is the process for maintenance requests and how quickly do they typically get resolved?
It’s also a good idea to consider whether you want an academic or year-round lease. Academic year leases can save you money if you’re definitely going home for the summer. Year-round leases offer more stability and might be better if you’re planning to stay for internships or summer classes.
Find Ohio University Off-Campus Housing at Wharton Rentals
Dealing with housing during college breaks doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right landlord and lease terms. At Wharton Rentals, we understand that college life doesn’t follow a typical schedule, and we work with students to find housing solutions that fit their needs!
Ready to find Ohio University off-campus housing that works with your schedule? Browse our available properties and discover why so many Athens students choose Wharton Rentals for their off-campus housing needs!
