College Season in NYC

by Bill Bekisz

College season in New York City is a busy time for both students and real estate agents. As students move in and out of the city for the start and end of the school year, there is a lot of demand for housing. This can lead to higher rents and more competition for apartments.

Here are some of the ways that college season affects the real estate market in NYC:

  • Increased demand for housing: As students move into the city, there is a surge in demand for housing. This can lead to higher rents and more competition for apartments.
  • Peak rental season: Summer is typically the peak rental season in NYC, as this is when many students are moving in and out of the city. This can make it difficult to find an apartment, especially if you are looking for a short-term lease.
  • Net effective rent: Landlords in NYC often offer net effective rent, which means that the advertised rent is lower than the actual rent. This is because the landlord will offer a few free months of rent in exchange for a higher monthly rent. This practice is especially common during college season, as landlords know that students are more likely to be willing to pay a higher monthly rent in exchange for a few free months.
  • Short-term leases: Many students need short-term leases, as they are only in the city for a semester or a year. This can be difficult to find, as most landlords prefer to rent to tenants who will sign a longer lease.

If you are planning to move to NYC for college, it is important to be aware of the real estate market and the challenges that you may face. By planning ahead, you can increase your chances of finding a good apartment at a reasonable price.

Here are some tips for finding an apartment in NYC during college season:

  • Start your search early. The best apartments go quickly, so it is important to start your search as early as possible.
  • Be flexible with your move-in date. If you are flexible with your move-in date, you will have more options available.
  • Consider renting a room in a shared apartment. This can be a more affordable option, and it is a great way to meet other students.
  • Be prepared to pay a higher rent. Rents in NYC are high, and they can be even higher during college season.
  • Be aware of the net effective rent. Many landlords in NYC offer net effective rent, so be sure to ask about the actual rent before you sign a lease.

Hope this helps!