Consider using a realtor as another avenue to find an apartment. In Chicago, using a realtor for rentals is free, similar to other locator services. Realtors can assist in refining your search if you are unsure where to start. Realtors often list properties on websites like Zillow and their company's site. Typically, the realtor will show you the property instead of the property manager.

Many apartment locator services offer free assistance to renters (they are paid by the owners of the apartments after the apartment is rented). Their listings are constantly updated, and most companies offer to drive prospective renters to their listed properties. Popular rental services include:

• The Apartment People
• Chicago Apartment Finders
• Planned Property
• Smart Living Chicago
• Student Space
• *Access Living (Resources for students with disabilities)

*Access Living is an organization that advocates for fair housing for people with disabilities. Notably, Access Living is less than a mile away from Loyola's School of Law. Additionally, Access Living has a page with information about accessible listings; they also have a housing counseling program.

The internet is a great place to start your apartment search. Though you may be overwhelmed at first, many students do find that the Internet is the easiest way to narrow their options for price and location. Online resources that our students have found most helpful are:

• Apartments.com
• Zillow
• Apartment List
• Craigslist
• Facebook Marketplace Individual property
• Individual property management companies websites

Depending on where you choose to live, there may be fees associated with moving into the property. Some examples of these include a security deposit, a move-in fee, and/or a pet deposit. The landlord can charge a refundable security deposit before you move into the property. When you move out, the landlord will inspect the rental unit and deduct the cost of repairing any damages you caused, beyond normal wear and tear, from the deposit. Some landlords will require a non-refundable move-in fee in place of a security deposit, which is generally less than a security deposit. Pet deposits and fees depend on the landlord, and can be a one-time payment or smaller monthly charges.

Most states do not allow the landlord to raise the rent during a lease agreement, however, the landlord can raise the rent before you renew your lease, provided the landlord gives you written notice of intent to do so. Most properties will start showing your unit two months before your lease ends. If you have a month-to-month rental agreement with your landlord, different rules may apply.

If you have a pet or are considering getting a pet or already own one, check with the landlord. Some apartments only allow cats or dogs under a certain weight. Many properties will require a pet deposit or monthly pet fee.

The owners of apartment buildings carry general insurance that only insures the building structure itself. Any damage to your possessions due to fire, smoke, flood, theft, etc. is your responsibility. Renter's insurance is relatively inexpensive and a very wise purchase. Management companies may have specific criteria for renters insurance, so check with them before purchasing a policy. Most insurance companies that insure cars also offer renter’s insurance. Ask if they offer a bundle.

A lease is a contract between you and the lessor. A basic lease lists the amount of rent due and the length of time the agreement is valid. Some examples of what may appear on a lease include: guest policy, pets, security, storage, building amenities, utilities and maintenance. Make sure to read the whole contract and view the property (if possible) before signing. Always request a copy of the agreement in writing.

Bringing a car to Chicago can be costly. If you plan to bring a car to Chicago, there are several parking options depending on where you live. Parking spaces can be available for rent with your apartment for an additional fee ($150-$300 monthly). Free street parking is available in certain neighborhoods but make sure to check signage on the street for any important parking information. All cars are required to obtain a City of Chicago sticker and some parking zones can require a permit, more information regarding the cost and zones can be found here.

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) carries over 1.6 million customers a day throughout Chicago and 35 suburbs, operating as the nation's second largest public transportation system. Several daily bus routes and a 24- hour railway system allows students to travel to any area of the city. The 8 different rail lines are identified by their color: Blue, Green, Red, Orange, Purple, Yellow, Pink, Green, and Brown. The Blue and Orange lines connect directly to both major airports in Chicago.

Bus fare is $2.25 ($2.50 using cash)and train fare is $2.50, you can purchase a ticket with cash or credit. It’s recommended to use a Ventra card, which can be managed and added to mobile wallets in the Ventra App.

Loyola University Chicago offers full-time students CTA U-Passes that provide unlimited access to CTA buses and trains while class is in session. The U-Pass is your ticket to unlimited riding aboard CTA buses and trains. The fee is included in your full-time student fees at a greatly reduced cost.

Loyola University Chicago's Water Tower Campus does not offer parking accommodations for students. However, there are several commercial parking facilities in the area. Loyola has a partnership with some of the nearby parking garages. Use the ParkMobile reservation system to receive discounted parking from Water Tower Campus garages following these instructions. There, are also a limited number of metered parking spaces surrounding the law school that are offered at a discounted rate. Visit Chicago Parking Map for additional parking options.

Loyola University has its own transportation shuttle bus service, which is free for Loyola students. The shuttle bus travels several times each day (about every 20 minutes) between the Lake Shore and Water Tower campuses during the academic sessions. There is one shuttle that travels to Metra Stations from the Water Tower Campus at 9:05 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is no shuttle service on Saturday or Sunday. Shuttle Bus tracking can be found here.

Chicago is a bike friendly city and a top method of getting to campus. Chicago also has Divvy, a large bike sharing network with stations throughout the city. You can find and unlock Divvy bikes, e-bikes, and scooters through the Lyft or Divvy apps. Biking is a great way to commute and explore the city.

Learn more about biking in Chicago from Loyola’s Transportation Committee.