It’s that time of year again. Underclassmen are ready to move off campus and are apartment searching, while those already in apartments have to make the decision to either stay where they are or find somewhere new. I’m sure most students would, at first, automatically plan to stay in their current apartments. After all, moving again is too much work, and you’re already situated. While yes, moving is a pain (trust me, I had to move in and out of places three times within eight months) it could pay off in the long run.
If you were to ask anyone that lives off campus if they thought their apartment was perfect, I’m sure the majority would say not a chance. That may sound pessimistic at first, but bear with me. As I have been learning, the actual quality of the apartment runs deeper than the building you’re currently calling home. A lot of the problems my roommates and I have been facing come from the management and overall system of operation that controls the apartment complex. Personally, I don’t think it should take almost two months and at least ten emails and physical visits to the leasing office before the top half of a dresser is delivered, especially when it was supposed to be there on move-in day.
Another worry that comes from unorganized management is terrible communication. No matter how nice the apartment or building may seem at first, you will eventually find yourself having minor complications suddenly turn into big things or even have unannounced maintenance or adjustments without warning. Nothing is more stressful than seeing someone take the lock off your door and only finding out that this was scheduled after having to ask about it yourself.
Obviously, most of the living areas for Clemson students have more good than bad, and most people choose to stay where they are because of the reality that there will be some issues no matter where you go. This is simply more of a warning to carefully look at all your options before committing to somewhere for the next year or more. College is eventful enough already without having to add apartment problems to the list.
