Guide to Off-Campus Living

GUIDE TO LIVING OFF-CAMPUS

TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to Life Off-Campus Off-Campus Student Services Finding Off-Campus Housing Take Time Before You Sign Roommates 101 Cost Comparisons Budgeting Worksheet Understanding Your Lease Signing the Lease Living Off-Campus Moving Into Your New Home Being a Responsible Renter Getting Involved Getting Around Responsible Citizen and Student On- and Off-Campus Guidelines Emergency Planning Safety Reminders and Guidelines

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WELCOME TO LIFE OFF-CAMPUS The Guide to Living Off-Campus will enhance your living adventure while at Mississippi State University. This guide offers off-campus housing information, renter insights, and access to university and city resources to help you get acquainted with all available options.

As you become a part of the Starkville community, we encourage you to learn about your rights, responsibilities, and available resources by reviewing this guide.

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OFF-CAMPUS STUDENT SERVICES Off-Campus Student Services (OCSS) at Mississippi State functions as a link between students, faculty and staff, and the off-campus community.

Housed within the Dean of Students’ Office and aligned with the Division of Student Affairs, OCSS is dedicated to providing the university community with valuable tools to help navigate off-campus living.

LOOKING TO LIVE IN A SPECIFIC AREA OF STARKVILLE? Scan the QR code to explore local listings, use filters to refine your housing search, use our interactive map, and access additional features.

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OFF-CAMPUS STUDENT SERVICES CONT. ONLINE SEARCH To explore Starkville housing options on our Off-Campus Housing Marketplace portal, go to ocss.msstate.edu and click on "Explore Housing Options."

This portal will allow you to: Customize your housing search based on your preferences.

Utilize the interactive map to explore specific locations.

Reach out to properties directly and save favorites for future reference or to share.

Post and browse subleases.

Find potential roommates.

EVENTS AND SERVICES Throughout the fall and spring semesters, OCSS organizes pop-up interactive sessions with our off-campus partners every Tuesday and Thursday on the lower level of the Colvard Student Union. Additionally, a housing fair is held each semester, showcasing all off-campus partners and providing guests the opportunity to make in-person connections.

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FINDING OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING Everyone has different priorities when choosing the right place to live. Ask yourself “what is important to me?” Before you make the decision to sign a lease, there are several things to consider.

DO NOT sign more than one lease.

Once you have signed a lease, it is LEGALLY BINDING, even without a co-signer/guarantor.

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR NEW HOME Visit Off-Campus Student Services and click on “Explore Housing Options.”

Know your budget.

View and tour multiple properties.

Take time to visit in person, not just online.

Do not rent the first and only place you look at.

Compare the properties you are most interested in.

Consider commuter access to and from campus.

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TAKE TIME BEFORE YOU SIGN

Pro Tip: When narrowing down apartment lease options, create a personalized checklist of must-haves, such as location, amenities, and budget. Prioritize your needs to streamline your search.

Safety and security should always be considered when researching properties of interest.

Would you feel safe living there, day and night?

How comfortable are you with the property management?

Are there working smoke/carbon monoxide detectors?

Is there a security system and does it work?

Are there cameras on the property?

Are there gates to the property and how often are they closed?

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TAKE TIME BEFORE YOU SIGN CONT. Prioritize safety by visiting the property at different times. Assess street lighting, maintenance, and proximity to parking. Consider traffic and any potential safety concerns.

Take time to schedule an appointment to meet with the property management of each property you are interested in. Learn what each property offers, how it benefits your needs, and if the property is a good fit for you personally and financially.

ASK YOURSELF Is the unit furnished or are there furnishing options?

Who is responsible for maintenance?

Is parking available?

Does the property have laundry facilities on site?

Does the property have amenities? (i.e., pool, study room, gym, etc.)

What is included in the property rental agreement? (i.e., utilities, furniture, Wi-Fi, etc.)

What utilities are included? (i.e., water, gas, electricity, etc.)

WHAT AMENITIES ARE MISSISSIPPI STATE STUDENTS MOST INTERESTED IN?

30.15% Access to Laundry Facilities 25.50% Access to Parking 17.45% Internet 16.65% Furnished or Option to Furnish 12.35% Utilities Included (water, gas, etc.)

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ROOMMATES 101 Who are you going to live with next year?

This is a significant decision and should be considered carefully since there are legal, financial, and personal implications that will affect everyone living together. Even though your best friend may appear to be the perfect roommate, they may not live up to your expectations.

Finding a compatible roommate is important. Take the time and care to choose your roommate(s).

COMMON ROOMMATE ISSUES Privacy Noise Guests Pets Bills/Deposits Security of Personal Belongings Parties Cleanliness Parking Groceries Smoking/Alcohol/Drugs

WHO DO MISSISSIPPI STATE STUDENTS LIVE WITH One or More Non-Students 21.9%

Alone 16.3%

One or More Students 61.9%

Access the ROOMMATE tool by scanning the QR code.

Create a roommate interest post or search for a roommate.

Only Mississippi State students can access this tool.

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COST COMPARISONS

There is more to a move than just paying rent and associated fees. For example, you need to consider the cost associated with groceries, household supplies, laundry, parking passes, renter’s insurance, and utilities.

Be sure to ask what additional fees are included in the property you’re most interested in.

For example, parking passes may be an additional fee.

Pro Tip: Many landlords or property managers require the first and last months’ rent as a security deposit. Your utilities often require deposits to have service initiated, as well.

AVERAGE RENT PAID PER MONTH AS REPORTED BY MISSISSIPPI STATE STUDENTS $150-$499

25%

$500-$999

70%

$1,000-$1,499

15%

$1,500-$1,999

2%

Compare different housing options. You may find that living on your own is too expensive.

Make a list of what each property has to offer. Amenities cost extra, so having things like pets, on-site laundry, a pool, tanning beds, or a gym will factor into the cost of the property and likely make it more expensive.

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BUDGETING WORKSHEET Try to be flexible and open-minded while weighing the pros and cons of your off-campus housing search. Utilize the Rental Budget Worksheet on page 11 to help plan out your finances.

Plan for the year and establish a monthly budget.

Use the budget worksheet to see where you need to cut back and where your money is being spent.

Compare each housing option, making a list of what each property has to offer.

Most lease agreements cannot be broken. A property may provide an early termination option at a cost, but once a lease has been signed, it becomes binding.

Did you know that Mississippi State Dining Services offers meal plan options to commuter students?

Scan the QR code to view on-campus dining options.

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BUDGET WORKSHEET Semester Income - per Semester Financial Aid and/or Grant Refund Scholarship Refund TOTAL School Expenses - per Semester

Monthly Personal Debts/Expenses

$

Tuition & Fees Books/Codes (hardback and/or electronic) Supplies Organizational/Club Dues On Campus Parking Decal3 Meal Plan TOTAL Remaining $ (total sem income - total sem expenses) Divide remaining total $ in the cell above by 4 (to get the monthly amount left from sem income)

$ $

Credit Card Payments Loans (student/personal) Savings ($$ into savings account) Investments Personal Products Haircut/Manicure, etc.

Laundry/Dry Cleaning Clothing/Shoes/Accessories Recreational/Gym (dues/gear/trainer) Gifts/Donations Food Deliveries Paid Apps

Monthly Income

Monthly Transportation Expenses

Job Wages (after taxes) Stipends (GI Bill, Graduate, etc.)

Allowances (from parents/family, etc.) Other Monthly Income TOTAL

Vehicle Payment Gas Radio/Assistance Services (xm/OnStar/etc.)

$ Monthly Living Expenses

Rent & Fees Electricity Natural Gas City Services (water/sewer/waste) Cell Phone Internet/Cable Groceries Household Goods & Supplies Parking Off-Campus (garage, etc.)

Security System Household Services (cleaning/lawncare/pest) TOTAL Monthly Medical Expenses Co-Pays Prescriptions/Other Medication TOTAL Monthly Insurance Expenses Vehicle Medical (Health/Dental/Vision) Renter's Life TOTAL

$

TOTAL

Maintenance/Repairs/Carwash Rideshares/Public Transportation TOTAL Monthly Pet Expenses

$

Veterinary Care (shots/medical care) Food/Toys Grooming/Boarding/Sitter/Trainer $

TOTAL Monthly Entertainment Expenses Vacation/Travel (fares/accommodations, etc.)

Subscriptions (gaming/streaming/music) Tickets (concert/games) Eating/Going Out/Tips TOTAL $

$ Other Expenses Not Listed

$ $

TOTAL TOTAL MONTHLY INCOME TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES TOTAL +/$

NOTE: ·On-campus parking decals are applied as a yearly, one-time fee for commuters purchasing their permit prior to the fall semester. For commuters purchasing a decal at the beginning of the spring semester, a one-time semester fee will be assessed prior to the start of the semester.

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UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEASE Make sure your lease is in writing.

Written agreements protect you and the landlord by defining rental terms, rules, and expectations.

Before you sign a lease, make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions.

ITEMS TO LOOK FOR IN A LEASE Lease term: How long is the lease?

Rent amount: What is the monthly rent and due date?

Deposits: What deposits are required and are they refundable?

Landlord access: When can a landlord enter your property?

Maintenance: Who is responsible for repairs?

Subletting: Are you allowed to sublet the apartment and/or house?

Early termination: What are the penalties for breaking the lease early?

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SIGNING THE LEASE When signing a lease, realize that you are agreeing to a contract. With a contract comes real world obligations.

Contracts are promises that courts enforce if one side doesn't fulfill their obligations. If you sign a one-year lease but move out after three months, refusing to pay rent, you can be sued for the unpaid rent and other damages.

Keep a copy of your lease and a record of the monthly rent payments on file. In any realworld business transaction, good recordkeeping can save you a lot of headache and expense later.

Carefully read lease agreements before signing, as they are LEGALLY BINDING and vary.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and those of your landlord is crucial for a smooth rental experience. Here are some key points to consider: TENANT RIGHTS

Right to a Habitable Home: Your landlord must ensure the rental property is livable, safe, and meets local health and building codes.

Right to Privacy: Landlords must give proper notice before entering your rental unit, except in emergencies.

Right to Repairs: You have the right to request repairs for any issues that affect your health and safety.

Right to a Written Lease: Ensure your lease is in writing and clearly outlines terms and conditions.

TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES Pay Rent on Time: Always pay your rent on the agreed-upon date.

Maintain the Property: Keep the rental unit clean and undamaged. Report any maintenance issues promptly.

Follow Lease Terms: Adhere to all terms and conditions stated in your lease agreement.

Respect Neighbors: Maintain a reasonable level of noise and be considerate of your neighbors' rights to a peaceful environment.

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SIGNING THE LEASE CONT. LANDLORD RIGHTS Receive Rent: Landlords have the right to receive rent payments on time.

Property Access: Landlords can enter the property for repairs, inspections, or showings, but must provide notice in accordance with state laws.

Evict for Breaches: Landlords can initiate eviction proceedings if tenants violate lease terms, such as non-payment of rent or property damage.

LANDLORD RESPONSIBILITIES Maintain the Property: Ensure the rental property is in good condition and comply with health and safety regulations.

Respect Tenant Privacy: Provide proper notice before entering the rental unit.

Address Repairs: Promptly address repair requests for issues that affect the habitability of the property.

Return Security Deposit: Return the security deposit within the timeframe required by state law, minus any lawful deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

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LIVING OFF-CAMPUS Transitioning from on-campus housing to off-campus living is a significant step in your college journey, offering newfound independence and responsibility.

Whether you're a seasoned renter or navigating your first lease, this section aims to provide valuable insights, tips, and resources to make your off-campus experience fulfilling and manageable.

This section equips you with essential knowledge and tools for thriving off-campus, covering neighbor responsibility, community involvement, transportation, and safety.

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MOVING INTO YOUR NEW HOME Moving into an apartment as a new renter can be exciting and overwhelming. With proper planning and organization, you can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help.

ORGANIZE YOUR MOVE Create a moving checklist, declutter your belongings, schedule movers or rental trucks, and gather packing supplies.

INSPECT THE APARTMENT Before unloading your belongings and after receiving the keys to your new place, thoroughly document the condition of each area to prevent disputes and safeguard your deposit. Note any existing damage in writing, along with photos, and promptly inform the landlord to prevent future issues.

CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS Update your address with the post office, banks, employers, subscriptions, and any other relevant institutions.

CONSIDER PURCHASING RENTER'S INSURANCE It is best practice to protect yourself and your personal property with renters insurance. Pro-Tip: You may be able to save on renter's insurance if you are covered while away from home by a Homeowners Insurance Policy.

BE A GOOD RENTER AND ROOMMATE Be respectful, communicate openly, practice cleanliness, be mindful of shared spaces, and be responsible.

SET UP UTILITIES Contact utility companies to set up services such as electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable prior to moving in.

EXPLORE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Get to know local shops, restaurants, parks, and community events.

This will help you feel at home.

Needing to set up utilities, obtain a driver’s license, find a job, or get to know the area?

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Scan the QR code to view a list of local resources to help you settle in.

BEING A RESPONSIBLE RENTER Communication is the foundation to a successful relationship with your roommate(s) and your neighbor(s). To minimize conflict, introduce yourselves, communicate openly, understand expectations, and address issues promptly and respectfully.

THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF CONFLICTS INCLUDE: NOISE COMPLAINTS Loud music, parties, noisy pet(s) and/or guests, loud vehicles, etc.

PARKING ISSUES Taking a roommate’s or neighbor’s assigned spot, blocking in their vehicle, etc.

COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWNS Lack of communication, disagreements, or misunderstandings can escalate if not addressed promptly and effectively.

ANIMAL DISTURBANCES Excessive odors, sanitation concerns, property damage, aggressive behavior, etc.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Unsightly garbage, unkept space near unit entrance and inside/outside property, unpleasant odor, etc.

OVER-OCCUPANCEY CONCERN Having other individuals stay with you that are not under contract can lead to additional problems.

Having your own place can bring many freedoms, but your neighbors, roommates, and landlord deserve respect when hosting a large group of friends or a party.

REMEMBER THESE IMPORTANT TIPS TO MAKE SURE CONFLICT DOES NOT ARISE: SET HOUSE RULES WITH ROOMMATES Before hosting a gathering, whether with friends or for an event, establish house rules with your roommate(s), including agreement on gathering size, duration, alcohol serving, noise levels, cleaning, and other details.

BE RESPONSIBLE Designate a responsible organizer for gatherings to ensure safety and success. They should remain sober, enforce house rules, manage uninvited guests, interact with authorities if necessary, and arrange safe transportation.

INFORM YOUR NEIGHBORS Notify nearby residents about your event and encourage them to contact the organizer with any issues. Clearly communicate the event duration and stick to the schedule. Invite your neighbors to join the gathering as well.

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BEING A RESPONSIBLE RENTER CONT. MONITOR YOUR GATHERING Monitor your gathering closely and ensure control over the noise, guest size, parking, and sobriety. Advise guests to be quiet upon arrival and departure, as most neighbor complaints arise from these times.

TAKE ACTION, IF NEEDED If the party gets out of control, contact law enforcement for assistance. Let a sober host handle communication with the police respectfully and accept the consequences. For assistance, call the non-emergency police number at 662.323.4134.

CLEAN UP Clean up thoroughly, ensuring the surrounding area is tidy. Collect all trash and ask neighbors if they encountered any issues during the gathering.

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GETTING INVOLVED

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Get involved in one of over 200 student organizations at Mississippi State for lifelong friendships, transferable skills, and a meaningful college experience.

Explore opportunities at the Center for Student Activities or Cowbell Connect.

MISSISSIPPI STATE ATHLETICS Mississippi State's vibrant culture encompasses athletics, providing unforgettable experiences for students and the community. Stay up-to-date with team schedules, upcoming events, and announcements at Mississippi State Athletics.

STARKVILLE COMMUNITY The Greater Starkville Development Partnership hosts various events, such as New South Weekends, Pumpkinpalooza, and the Cotton District Arts Festival. For details on events and programs scheduled within the Starkville community, visit Starkville Mississippi’s College Town.

SAM D. HAMILTON NOXUBEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE The Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee Wildlife Refuge, located 13 miles south of Starkville, spans 48,000 acres and houses various native animals, such as bald eagles, alligators, and bobcats. It's a popular spot for birdwatchers, hikers, and photographers, offering nature trails and observation decks.

OTHER OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES In Starkville, the Parks and Recreation Department manages numerous public parks and recreational spaces, offering diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement.

Near Starkville are the John W. Starr Memorial Forest, an 8,200-acre natural woodlands park to the south, and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway to the east that offers 1,000 miles of shoreline and 110,000 acres of land and water for fishing, boating, and camping.

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GETTING INVOLVED CONT.

JOE FRANK SANDERSON CENTER - UNIVERSITY RECREATION University Recreation (URec) offers two gymnasiums, fitness training areas, group exercise studios, a jogging track, and more at the newly renovated Joe Frank Sanderson Center.

Full-time students enjoy complimentary access.

URec offers group fitness classes, outdoor adventures to promote outdoor engagement, intramural sports with an annual participation of over 9,000, sport clubs, and the aquatics program.

For further details about URec programs, visit University Recreation or call 662.325.7529.

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GETTING AROUND

The Department of Transportation works to ensure safe and reliable campus parking. Any individual who parks a motor vehicle on campus must purchase a digital permit or pay to park in a timed zone space.

ADA-accessible parking spaces are reserved throughout the campus to accommodate mobilityimpaired individuals with a state-issued handicap parking placard. An official university permit is required to park in any non-metered zone and a state-issued handicap permit must be registered with the Office of Parking and Transit Services.

The Department of Transportation also offers transportation for campus, Starkville, and the Golden Triangle area. Starkville – Mississippi State University Area Rapid Transit (S.M.A.R.T.) shuttles provide daily routes covering campus and Starkville, with free connections to the Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTRA Express Routes). S.M.A.R.T. welcomes all passengers, offering wheelchair lifts and accommodating service animals.

Visit Mississippi State Transportation to learn more about services, parking polices, shuttle tracking, maps, routes, announcements, and service times.

AVERAGE DISTANCE COMMUTING TO MISSISSIPPI STATE

MINUTES <15 15-29 30-45 >45

HOW DO MISSISSIPPI STATE STUDENTS COMMUTE TO MISSISSIPPI STATE Personal Vehicle Property Shuttle Campus Transit Bicycle/Scooter/Motorcycle Walk

30.15% 25.50% 17.45% 16.65% 12.35%

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RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN AND STUDENT When you live off-campus, you’ll have to take on more responsibility for your daily life.

This can help you develop a strong sense of self-discipline and personal responsibility.

Being a responsible citizen and/or college student means actively participating in your community, respecting others, fulfilling civic duties, attending classes, completing assignments on time, and/or contributing positively to society.

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ON- AND OFF-CAMPUS GUIDELINES All cities and municipalities have codes or guidelines that are strictly enforced. In order to ensure that these codes and guidelines are not broken, you and your roommates should educate yourselves on what is expected of you as an apartment renter or home owner.

The Dean of Students’ Office (DOS) handles violations of the student conduct code, ensuring fairness, honesty, and integrity while supporting the university’s educational mission. Our goal is to uphold student responsibility and conduct standards through a fair process, fostering fairness, civility, and personal responsibility to ensure a safe, healthy university community by: Administering the Code of Student Conduct while ensuring the principles of due process.

Serving as a consultant and resource for students, faculty, staff and parents concerning student conduct expectations and rights, including university policies and procedures related to student life.

Assisting and counseling victims and those accused of conduct violations.

Offering conflict and dispute management.

The Code of Student Conduct helps you understand your rights and the policies you must follow. Off-campus, you must know and respect city codes and ordinances while also adhering to Mississippi State standards.

As a Mississippi State student, abide by the Code of Student Conduct. For details, visit Policies Relating to Students and University Policies.

The Student Handbook provides information on campus contacts, departmental offerings, and involvement opportunities. Access the handbook through the Office of Parent and Family Services.

New to the area and not sure where to start?

Scan the QR code to view the City of Starkville City Codes and City Ordinances.

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EMERGENCY PLANNING EMERGENCY NUMBERS In case of an emergency 911 Mississippi State University Police 662.325.2121 Starkville Police Department 662.323.4134 Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office & County Jail 662.323.2421 Dean of Students Office of Parent and Family Services 662.325.3611

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Starkville Fire Department 662.323.1277 Highway Patrol 662.323.5315 Student Health Center 662.325.2431 OCH Regional Medical Center 662.324.4320

SAFETY REMINDERS AND RESOURCES PROTECT YOUR NEW HOME When moving into your new home, prioritize safety by making sure all locks are in good working condition, test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for functionality, and inspect for hazards like loose wires or unstable handrails. Secure windows, familiarize yourself with emergency exits, and prepare an emergency kit with essentials. Building a rapport with neighbors and childproofing, if necessary, also contribute to a safer living environment.

MAROON ALERTS FOR THE UNIVERSITY (those with a NetID & Password) Maroon Alert is Mississippi State University’s official emergency notification system and includes several methods for obtaining information about a current or anticipated crisis.

Maroon Alerts are only sent for emergencies or periodic tests. To learn more about the Maroon Alert System, visit the Office of Emergency Management.

MAROON ALERTS FOR THE COMMUNITY Families and friends can sign up for Maroon Alert by texting “MAROONALERT” to 888777.

This keyword is not case-sensitive. You will be enrolled in the Maroon Alert Community Engagement and will receive a text from 888777 anytime an alert is issued. You may text “STOP” to 888777 at any time to be removed from the system. Community members are also encouraged to follow @MaroonAlert on X to receive advisory and emergency update information.

WEATHER SAFETY Severe weather refuge areas have been identified in several campus buildings as places that may offer additional protection during severe weather events. In general, these are located centrally in the structure on lower floors away from exterior windows and doors. The city and the university are equipped with emergency alert sirens that will warn you if bad weather is in the area. As a reminder, do not drive during an active weather warning.

OFF-CAMPUS SAFETY TIP: A FEMA 361 certified storm shelter [capacity 1,500] designed to withstand winds of 250 mph is located at the corner of Lynn Lane and Industrial Park Road, approximately 2.5 miles west of the Mississippi State campus.

Scan the QR code to learn more about severe weather refuge areas and emergency guidelines.

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662.325.3611

FOLLOW US VISIT US ONLINE OCSS.MSSTATE.EDU

@MSUOCSS