Renter's Guide

For most of you, this is going to be the first or second time you rent an apartment of your very own. Whether you rent from us or someone else, there are things you should know. We'll help you make a more informed choice.

Before you call a landlord

• Who do I want to live with? The people you choose to live with will most likely become life-long friends. Choose people you can get along with and who share your interests, goals, and living habits. In other words, weed out the slobs.
• Cost-splitting. The least expensive way to rent is living with four people — you split living expenses four ways. If you choose a two-bedroom apartment, plan to pay more per person. The City of Platteville has a hard-and-fast law that only four people can live in a house or apartment unless it's a rooming house. Make sure there are adequate bathroom facilities.
• Account for everything, including:
  • Water and sewer
  • Heating / cooling — electric, oil, gas, or propane
  • Internet ($100+ per month if not included)
  • TV entertainment
  • Trash removal and recycling
  • Who mows the grass, shovels snow, rakes leaves, etc.

  You can contact Alliant Energy for a 12-month average of utility costs.

Questions to ask when calling a landlord

Obviously, the first question most people ask is "How much is rent?" But other questions matter just as much — often more — in the long run.

• What utilities are included? Our buildings include built-in gigabit internet — a $25–$35/month savings per person. That turns "$250/month/person" into an effective $225. Is there zoned heating? Zoned heating lets you turn down unused rooms and save real money each month.
• Are the interior walls insulated? Are there insulated windows?
• Is there adequate parking? Parking is tight around the UW–Platteville campus. Does the landlord have enough off-street parking for everyone in the building?

Extras we offer

Because students helped design our buildings, we include everything above and more.

• Renew your lease at the same rate for as long as you're in school. A big financial-planning benefit.

One final point

It's so important to know your landlord. If you have more questions, please give us a call at (608) 778-7606.

Thanks,
Brian and Sonya Kirsch