The Insider Take
Free insider tool

The Property Comparison Worksheet

Compare up to three finalists on the two numbers that matter (true monthly cost and total move-in cost) plus the questions that predict how the year will actually go. The money rows total automatically.

Print the worksheet →
 
Advertised base rate ($/mo)
Amenity / technology fee ($/mo)
Utility billing fee + expected overage ($/mo)
Damage waiver ($/mo)
Credit reporting fee ($/mo)
Renters insurance ($/mo)
Parking ($/mo)
Other recurring ($/mo)
TRUE MONTHLY COST$0$0$0
Individual or joint lease?
Lease term offered (12 / 9 / 5 month + premium)
Total one-time move-in cost ($)
Deposit or damage waiver?
Utility cap per bed
Distance / commute to campus
Management company (see our directory)
Resident-satisfaction ranking (J Turner)
Bed/bath setup and unit type
Furniture + mattress condition
Safety: entry system, lighting, after-hours staff
Resident events calendar shown?
Quote in writing with expiration date?
Gut feel after the tour (1-10)

Compare on the all-in numbers, not the advertised rate. Nothing you type leaves your browser. Print a blank copy to fill in during tours.

Take the checklist on the tour

The comparison is only as good as the answers you collect. The tour checklist has every question, in order.

Open the tour checklist →