Hidden Fees Exposed: Understanding Off-Campus Rental Costs Before You Sign

by Apr 12, 2024

Moving off-campus in Scranton, PA for the first time is an exciting adventure. Freedom! Independence!

But hold on to your Electric City Scranton tees, there can be a hidden monster lurking in those seemingly affordable rent prices: surprise fees!

Fear not, future Electric City tenant! This guide will shed light on the murky world of off-campus rental fees in Scranton, empowering you to make informed decisions and avoid financial surprises.

The Deceptive Dollar Signs:

Rent is just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some commonly hidden fees to be aware of for Scranton apartments, houses, or townhomes:

Application Fees: Landlords often charge a non-refundable application fee to process your paperwork. This can range from $25 to $100 per applicant.

Security Deposits: This is a refundable deposit held by the landlord as collateral for any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Security deposits can be equal to one or even two months’ rent.

Move-In Fees: Some landlords charge fees for things like administrative tasks or setting up utilities in Scranton. Be sure to ask about these upfront.

Pet Fees: If you’re a furry friend enthusiast, expect additional fees like pet rent (monthly), pet deposit (refundable), or even non-refundable pet fees in Scranton rentals.

Parking Fees: Not all Scranton rentals include parking. Factor in the cost of a designated spot or a parking permit if needed, especially near The University of Scranton or Marywood University.

Utilities: Don’t be fooled by “rent includes water” – electricity, gas, internet, and trash collection are often separate charges in Scranton. Ask for an average monthly utility bill to get a better idea of the full cost.

Renter’s Insurance: While not always mandatory, renter’s insurance is highly recommended. It protects your belongings in case of fire, theft, or other covered incidents, especially for off-campus housing in Scranton.

Become a Fee-Finding Master in Scranton:

Read the Lease Carefully: This is your legal agreement with the landlord. Don’t just skim it – understand every fee mentioned for Scranton rentals and ask questions if anything is unclear.

Ask Questions: Don’t be shy! A good landlord will be upfront about all fees associated with the Scranton rental property.

Compare Before You Commit: Get quotes from multiple Scranton rentals and factor in all potential fees, not just the base rent.

Don’t Waste Another Minute Searching!

Skilled Property Finders is here to help you find your perfect off-campus match. We’re pre-leasing select Scranton rental units for the upcoming semester, and offering exclusive discounts to students who book early.

Check out the link below:
https://www.axelpm.com/lehigh-valley-homes-for-rent/505/1513-vine-street-unit-1-scranton-pa-18510

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