I'm transferring to the University of Florida from my college in Orlando, any tips for finding housing if I'm a transfer student?

Congratulations! Choosing to transfer schools is a big decision and one that likely came with a lot of planning and hard work. Here at 407apartments.com, we know it might be common for students at local colleges and universities to transfer to another institution to complete their undergraduate studies. A common choice is moving to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida to complete their education. Whether you're transferring from The University of Central Florida to UF, transferring from Valencia College to UF, or transferring from Seminole State College to UF, we've compiled a few tips to help ease your transition and plan your apartment search to set you up for success in your new community.

Tips for Finding Housing if You're a Transfer Student

Get to know Gainesville and the University of Florida

UF is a vibrant college town with plenty of school spirit (Go Gators!). When beginning your search for an apartment near UF, you'll want to focus on neighborhoods in the Archer Road, Midtown, and Sorority Row & South regions. To learn more, read through our Gainesville Neighborhood Guide. These neighborhoods are closest to the UF campus and offer prime transportation routes on the RTS bus line, as well as plenty of bike lanes, to make for an easy commute. Additionally, these neighborhoods offer plenty of student housing options with individual leases entertainment and dining options to suit all tastes. You'll be close to campus for the best cultural and sporting events, from Gator game days in the Swamp to the next exhibit at the Harn Museum of Art.

Best Time to Search for Apartments and Sign a Lease

If you need help understanding the best times to beginning apartment hunting, narrowing down your housing options, and signing your lease, SwampRentals.com has a complete guide outlining the Best Time to Sign a Lease. If you're planning to start your program during the Fall semester, the best time to plan to sign a lease is between December through February for a Fall move-in. It's also not uncommon for transfer students to start during a Spring or Summer semester. If you're planning a move to start your program during the Spring, you'll ideally want to sign your lease between September through early December of the year prior to the Spring Semester. For a Summer start, plan to sign a lease during February or March.

Roommate Tips for Transfer Students

As a transfer student to UF, you may not know other students in the community to share housing with. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of roommate matching programs common at student housing communities. You'll be able to share some information about your interests and habits and get matched with other roommates to share an apartment with. If living solo in a one-bedroom apartment, which is also an option, doesn't appeal to you then roommate matching is a great way to begin meeting companions in your new community. Aside from getting involved in campus activities that appeal to your interests, you may also consider looking for apartment amenities that offer organized resident events which are another great way to meet neighbors and new friends. 

Whether you're transferring to the University of Florida from another great institution like UCF, Valencia, or Seminole State, these tips will prepare you for a great transition to apartment life in Gainesville.