Top 10 Apartment Hunting Mistakes LMU Students Should Avoid

Introduction:Finding off-campus housing as an LMU student offers the chance to live in beautiful Westside neighborhoods like Playa Vista or Marina del Rey. But the housing market near Loyola Marymount University can be competitive and costly if you're not prepared. To make your search smoother, avoid these 10 common mistakes LMU students often make.

Top 10 Apartment Hunting Mistakes LMU Students Should Avoid

1. Waiting Too Long to Start SearchingThe best apartments near LMU—especially in Playa del Rey or Westchester—go fast. Start looking at least 2–3 months ahead of your desired move-in date.

2. Underestimating the Total CostRent is just one part of the equation. Be sure to budget for utilities, Wi-Fi, parking, and renters’ insurance when evaluating affordability.

3. Ignoring Transportation and Commute TimeIf you don’t live within walking distance of LMU, make sure your location is accessible by bike or public transit, or consider LA traffic if you plan to drive.

4. Signing a Lease Without Seeing the UnitPictures can be misleading. Schedule a visit or virtual tour to check for issues like pests, outdated appliances, or poor maintenance.

5. Skipping the Lease DetailsRead every line of the lease agreement. Look out for clauses about subletting, breaking the lease early, or automatic renewals.

6. Not Considering Neighborhood SafetySome areas near LMU are safer and more student-friendly than others. Prioritize neighborhoods like Westchester and Playa Vista and always research crime stats.

7. Overlooking Parking LimitationsMany apartments near LMU don’t include parking, and street parking can be limited. Confirm parking availability and costs before committing.

8. Moving in With Roommates Without Clear BoundariesTalk through living habits, cleaning schedules, and financial responsibilities upfront to prevent future conflict.

9. Falling for Scams or Fake ListingsIf a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Use trusted sites or LMU’s off-campus housing resources to find legitimate listings.

10. Settling Out of ConvenienceDon’t jump on the first listing you see just because it’s close to campus. Compare at least a few options to ensure you're getting the best value.

Conclusion:Apartment hunting near LMU can be a rewarding experience when you know what pitfalls to avoid. By planning ahead, reviewing your lease carefully, and prioritizing safety and value, you’ll be well on your way to finding your ideal off-campus home.