Housing

OTC is considered a commuter campus and does not offer student housing on or off campus. We recognize more students don’t live in the area and want to offer you valuable information and resources to address your housing needs.

You can research off-campus housing possibilities by clicking on the links listed below. These choices are managed by private companies and are not affiliated with any campus entity. You can contact these student housing companies directly for apartment availability, cost, location and facility tour.

• Apartment Guide
• Apartment Finder
• Rent College Pads
• International Student housing Guide

Housing Tips

• When looking at apartments, ask to see the unit that you are looking at renting, not a model. This way you can see if there are any issues beforehand.
• Make sure to complete the move in inspection. This way if there are any existing issues, you will not be held liable for them when you move out. You want to do everything you can to get your deposit back!
• Read and understand your lease.
• Consider getting a rental with washer and dryer hookups. You can find a used washer and dryer set for around $200 at local used appliance shops. This will help ensure your are doing your laundry and avoid having to find time to use the public laundry areas. Many times they will offer delivery for a small fee or for free.
• Amenities are nice, but not everything. Just because the complex has a movie theater, pool, gym, volleyball court, etc, doesn’t mean you have to rent there. Consider the price and how much you will actually use them.
• Consider getting a roommate(s). This can help cut costs, but make sure they are responsible and someone you trust. Paying bills on time may not sound like fun, but it keeps the lights on and internet working. Make sure to communicate, pick up after yourself, and respect each other. It will go a long way.
• Don’t forget to clean. Create a schedule and stick to it.
• While it may be tempting to get a pet, be sure to check your lease. Most places charge more for one and may automatically forfeit your deposit. Remember, you are going to have a lot of new responsibilities. Ask yourself if taking care of a pet is another one you want to have.
• Check for 24/7 access to maintenance.
• Learn basic home maintenance. If you don’t have a tool set, this is the perfect time to get one.
• Don’t make any major changes to the rental. It may be tempting to paint the walls, hang up art, or make the place your own. Be careful. It could mean you not getting a deposit back and having to pay for the damage later on. If you want to hang stuff on the walls, consider getting Command Strips or something that is easily removable.
• Consider visiting thrift stores and online marketplaces for used furniture.