When to look
Note: there is NO housing shortage in Charlottesville. Take your time. There is no need to sign a lease in a hurry. Remember that the lease is a legal contract between you and the landlord.

The smart process
The place you choose is going to be “home” for the upcoming year, so choose accordingly. You've found the perfect apartment, but there is no washer/dryer in the building – how important will that be over the next 9 months? Make a list of things that are important to you in terms of everyday life and take it with you when you start shopping for a place to live next year.

Get a good map and think about how you'll get to class. Is there a close bus stop? Is there a safe and legal place to park your car?

Be prepared to have a conversation when the phone is answered. Have a copy of the OGH Search Sheet (available on the OGH website) ready for notes when you make the call. If you have to leave a message, and you'll probably do a lot of that, prepare a short “script” to promote yourself to encourage a call back. (see sample scripts on next page) Be accessible by phone. If you are not easily available, landlords will simply go to the next person on their call list. Keep your cell phone with you as well as a copy of the Search Sheet.