Westside Village Blog

State College, Pennsylvania is a blend of small-town charm with vibrant college-town atmosphere, making it an appealing place to live. Home to Penn State University, this area attracts students, young professionals, and alumni from all around the world. This guide will explore the qualities that define the best apartments in State College as well offer practical advice on securing a lease in this area. Important Characteristics & Amenities of the Best Apartments in State College The following characteristics make certain apartments particularly attractive in the State Colege housing market. Proximity to Penn State University This area is highly popular, especially among students and professionals who want to live within walking distance of Penn State and its downtown attractions. Typical commute times from apartments in the downtown area to the edge of campus range anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. Being within walkable distance makes lifestyle more convenient and comfortable for residents. Apartments can be found in areas surrounding the university, such as Beaver Avenue and College Avenue. Other popular neighborhoods in the area include West College Heights, Holmes-Foster Neighborhood, and Vairo Boulevard. However, apartments within walking distance are high in demand. State College offers various apartments that are only a short commute away from the university, and Downtown State College parking is available for students, visitors, and professionals. Modern Amenities and Facilities The best apartments in State College include modern amenities and facilities, enhancing residents’ quality of life and living experience. Fitness centers are a popular aspect of apartments, as they allow residents to participate in a healthy lifestyle without having to leave the building. Additionally, it eliminates the need for a gym membership, leading to significant savings. Apartments with community lounges and social space provide a space for residents to relax, meet and socialize with their neighbors. This amenity is particularly important to students who are looking for a place to hang out with friends or study after classes. Lastly, high-speed internet is essential for modern living. State College apartments that offer high-speed internet are attractive to students and professionals who need this amenity for virtual learning, work, or streaming entertainment. Safety and Security Features State College is known for being a relatively safe area, but apartments that include extra safety and security measures are valued by residents. When looking for an apartment, it’s important to consider safety aspects, such as surveillance cameras, secure entry, and well-lit surrounding areas. Not only do these features keep residents and the community safe, but they also allow residents to feel comfortable, safe, and at peace in their living environment. Find a Top-Rated Apartment Near PSU We offer some of the highest rated apartments in State College. View our full list of State College apartments to schedule a walk through. Tips for Getting Your Apartment Application Approved Preparation and understanding the application process can make a significant difference. Here are some important tips to remember when filling out a leasing application for an apartment. Prepare Your Financial Documents When applying for an apartment lease, having the necessary financial documents ready can expedite the approval process. Landlords and property management companies use these documents to verify that you can meet the rental obligations. Here are the necessary financial documents that are typically required: Proof of Income: Landlords need proof that you have a stable income sufficient to cover rent. Bank Statements: Bank statements provide insight into your overall financial health. Credit Report: Your credit report shows your credit score, history of payments, outstanding debts, and any potential red flags. Employment Verification Letter: This letter provides formal proof of your employment and income stability. Craft a Strong Rental History A positive rental history is crucial when applying for a new apartment. It provides landlords with your past behavior as a tenant, indicating your future reliability and responsibility. Landlords prioritize applicants with proven records of responsibility, as it minimizes the risk of potential issues, such as missed payments, property damage, and disruptive behavior. A keyway to improve your rental history is to receive a positive reference from a previous landlord, as it adds credibility to your application. If you’re a first time renter, don’t miss our first apartment checklist , which explains more on how to present a strong case to your landlord. Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease To avoid common pitfalls, ask the landlord thoughtful questions to make an informed decision before signing a lease. The best apartments care about their tenants and will have no problem answering questions like these. Clarify the Lease Terms Understanding the lease terms is vital when renting an apartment. It directly impacts your living situation, financial obligations, and overall satisfaction with your rental experience. Here are some common questions to consider when reviewing your lease: What is the lease duration? Are there any additional fees or costs not included in the rent? What is the policy on rent increases? Can the lease be transferred or subleased? Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs? Are there any restrictions on decorating or making changes to the apartment? What safety measures are in place for the property? Understand the Community Policies Community policies, such as rules regarding pets, guests, and quiet hours are important to know as they directly impact the living experience of residents. Pet-friendly policies allow pet owners to live with their animals, enhancing their quality of life. However, some apartment complexes have restrictions on pets, which means you might have to find an alternative housing option or give up your pet. It’s important to check this policy with your landlord before signing a lease. Policies regarding guests usually aim to balance privacy with security. Understanding guest policies helps prevent lease violations, such as penalties or eviction. Quiet hours are designed for noise management and ensuring a peaceful living environment for all residents. Knowing your apartment’s quiet hours will help you respect your neighbors and prevent future conflicts. Finding the Best Apartment in State College PA: Get Started Here! State College offers a variety of apartment options for students, professionals, and other community members. When searching for an apartment in Happy Valley, it’s important to consider living factors, including location, amenities, security, and community policies. When applying for an apartment, make sure to be prepared and ask thoughtful questions to ensure you are creating the best living experience for yourself. If you are ready to jump into the apartment search, check out West Side Village’s portfolio of available apartments in State College !

Prepare for your new apartment with our first apartment checklist. Make sure you have everything you need for move-in day. Ideal for a first or college apartment.

Learn everything you need to know about parking in State College PA and see available parking lease options. From overnight parking, to parking downtown, to clever football game parking & more.