Housing Expenses

Housing Expenses

If you do not have confirmed housing, may want to arrive two to four weeks before your UMass Chan appointment or graduate studies begin in order to locate suitable accommodations. Families generally need more time to locate housing.

Housing costs vary widely depending on the neighborhood, the condition of the dwelling, and amenities included. I would not rent a house or an apartment if you have not seen it. Rent usually does not include costs for heat, electricity, hot water, gas for cooking, telephone charges, parking fees, or furniture. Most apartments are unfurnished and very few are air-conditioned. Always ask the landlord or realtor to clarify what is included in the monthly rent.

• Leases: A lease is a legal contract between landlord (property owner) and tenant (person renting). Do not sign any lease until you have read it thoroughly and understand all of its provisions. Almost all property owners require the tenant to sign a lease for one year, committing the tenant to 12 months' rent unless a subtenant acceptable to the owner can be found. Leases usually start on the first of the month.
• Rental Costs: Most owners require one month's rent in advance. You should be prepared to pay up to three or four months' rent before occupying an apartment (first month in advance, last month in advance, a refundable security deposit, and possibly a realtor's fee). Please note that you should have the ability to pay for these initial expenses immediately.  Rent is typically due on the first of each month.
• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment ranges from $600 to $1,200 per month or more depending on the condition and location of the unit. The cost of a two-bedroom apartment varies anywhere from $800 to $1500 per month or more. Utilities, such as heat, hot water, gas, and electricity will vary.  In some cases, one or more of the utilities may be included in the rental cost.