Eric Johnson, a liberal arts sophomore, said he started his search early. Johnson spent the last two years in Bailey Hall, but said he thinks it is time for a change. Johnson plans to live in St. Paul. But many of those listings are not posted until late June. Like Johnson, many students seeking off-campus housing for the first time find the department useful.
Officials can help students understand what landlords look for in tenants, as well.
Ralph Rickgarn, an executive assistant for Housing and Residential Life, said landlords often contact residence halls for information on lessee applicants, but the office cannot release anything without student consent. Rickgarn said landlords typically want verification of a student's housing records. These include disciplinary records and lengths of stay.