Sophomore Environmental Studies major, Emily Jackson, lives in a student home owned by her roommate’s parents. She was kind enough to tell all about the ends and outs being a tenant in a student home. Below, Emily describes her experience and tells why she chose to rent from a friend’s parent.
1. Tell us about your home and its amenities.
“I live in a beautiful two-story house that has an open floor plan with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The kitchen and laundry room have nice updated appliances. Living in a neighborhood is wonderful. I love the park and jogging trail right by our house.”
2. How do you like your roommate’s parents being your landlords?
“It is wonderful and so convenient! They are great landlords, because they really care about the house!”
3. Why did you make the decision to live in the house vs. an apartment?
“The list goes on and on. We have our own yard and don’t have to worry about noise. It makes me feel more independent. Our house is conveniently located by a park and close to campus. Parking wise, it is a lot easier than at an apartment complex. We have an open driveway, and it is easier to entertain guests. I feel safer in our house too. We have an alarm system, and there aren’t parking garages or lots of people out at night. I love living in a family friendly neighborhood. It feels a lot better than being in a crowded campus dorm or large apartment complexe.”
4. How have your parents liked you living in a house owned by your roommate’s parents?
“My parents have felt safer knowing that we can trust the landlords. They feel more comfortable payment wise because they can trust my roommate’s parents. They love that I get to live with reliable and trustworthy roommates as well. They are very happy with the situation.”
5. How does having a trustworthy landlord make your living experience better?
“It is good to know that they have my best interest in mind when they take care of the house. It gives me peace of mind, and they are always willing to help fix things. It is so much easier to work with someone you know and trust. From our first night in the house, our landlords were so open and warm.”
6. Would you recommend your current living situation to someone else?
“Yes. I would strongly recommend living in a house owned by a family or friend’s parents. It was such a hassle when something broke when I lived in the dorms. It took a week to get one of my cabinets fixed! My roommate’s parents would have addressed any problems the same day. They are a much more reliable source.”
Purchasing a student home has more than financial benefits. It can be a way to give your student, and their friends, the safest and best living experience. Owning a student home can give parents and parents of tenants alike, peace of mind. Like Emily, your student can be living in a safe and trustworthy environment with their friends, while also saving money and having a good relationship with the homeowner. Now is the time to talk to your student about where they are going to live next fall. As a parent, homeowner, and realtor, allow me to help you find your student and their friends the
