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Before you arrive at your college destination, begin enquiring about desirable apartment complexes and safe residential areas that are close to campus. Your student advisor or a staff member in the admissions department may be able to suggest some locations. After you've determined some general areas you'd like to live, start looking. Resources include the classified section of the local newspaper, the Internet, and on-campus bulletin boards advertising rooms to rent. Read over the ads that interest you. The ad should stipulate whether a deposit is required and the amount, the monthly rent payment, any utilities included, the parking situation, the number of rooms and dimensions, and the general location of the apartment. Call the number listed on the advertisement, and ask to speak to the landlord or property owner. Be sure you ask for clarification of any terms that don't make sense. If you're interested in viewing the apartment, set up an appointment to walk through with the landlord.

Don't overextend your finances when renting an apartment. Most financial advisors recommend you spend no more than 25 percent of your gross monthly income on rent. Remember: in addition to your rent payment, you'll want to set aside money for food, school supplies, entertainment, and a savings account.

When you've found an apartment in the right location for the right price, you'll need to fill out an application. The landlord will review the application, check your credit history, and verify that you will be able to afford the monthly rent payment. Once the landlord approves your application, he or she will require you to sign a lease. Leases vary widely, but a standard lease will require you to remain at the residence for one year and will outline the agreed monthly payment procedure. You'll also have to pay your deposit at this time.

Before you sign the lease, examine it closely. Also, walk through the apartment one last time and look for any obvious pre-existing damage. Take photos of any damaged fixtures or abnormalities in the structure. Make a list of any damage, and ask your landlord to sign it. This way you'll have a record of the apartment's pre-existing condition, and you'll avoid having to pay for these damages in the future.

Ensure the apartment is safe before signing the lease, as well. MetLife recommends you evaluate the following:

• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
• Mailboxes
• Appliances
• Outdoor lighting
• Locks on doors, windows, and sliding glass doors
• Emergency exit signs in hallways
• Fire extinguishers in hallways
• Lead, radon hazards