Question 1

How to get to school?

Accepted Answer

The apartment is only a 5-minute bike ride to the UIUC campus, or you can take the Illinois Route 22 bus, which has a convenient stop right outside our front door.

Question 2

Is the apartment pet-friendly?

Accepted Answer

The apartment is pet-friendly, but breed and weight restrictions (under 35 pounds) may apply. There is a non-refundable pet fee of $250, a refundable pet deposit of $300, and a monthly pet rent of $35.

Question 3

Is there parking available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the apartment has parking spaces available. The monthly fee for covered parking is $75, while uncovered parking costs $59. Guest parking is $10 per night, with a maximum stay of 3 nights.

Question 4

Who is the internet service provider for the apartment?

Accepted Answer

The apartment offers high-speed 5gb internet for residents, ensuring a fast and reliable connection provided by Pavlov Media.

Question 5

Is the apartment furnished?

Accepted Answer

The apartment comes furnished, featuring beds and desks in the bedrooms, sofas, dining tables, chairs, and coffee tables in the living area, and kitchens equipped with refrigerators with ice makers, stoves, microwaves, dishwashers, and in-unit washers and dryers. While basic furniture is provided, personal items like bedding, cookware, and toiletries need to be supplied by the tenant. Note that there are no ceiling lights in the bedrooms.

Question 6

Does the apartment have community activities or social events?

Accepted Answer

The apartment regularly hosts community activities, including social gatherings, fitness classes, and resident appreciation events, helping you connect with other students and make the most of your time here.

Question 7

Is there a washer and dryer in the unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a washer and dryer in the unit.

Question 8

Is it safe to live in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

The apartment has a 24-hour access control system, and each unit and bedroom is equipped with its own lock.

Question 9

What year was the apartment built? How many floors and beds does it have?

Accepted Answer

Campus Circle apartment was built in 2016, with a total of 181 units and a height of 5 floors.

Question 10

What do shared and private mean in XBXB?

Accepted Answer

In the naming convention of apartments in the U.S., XBXB indicates the number of bedrooms with the first 'B' and bathrooms with the second 'B'. For example, 3B3B means three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Unit types marked as 'single' or 'private' refer to single bedrooms accommodating one person, while those marked as 'shared' or 'double' refer to double bedrooms accommodating two people.

Question 11

If I rent a single room, does that mean the room opposite is also a single room?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If you sign a single room contract, it only guarantees that your room is a single. The opposite room could be a single or a double depending on what the roommate next door has rented.

Question 12

What are the dimensions of the bed?

Accepted Answer

Full-Size, approximately 137cm x 191cm.

Question 13

Does the apartment provide bedding like blankets and pillows?

Accepted Answer

The apartment does not provide bedding. The bedroom is equipped with a bed and mattress but does not include linens, blankets, or other personal items. Please bring your own linens, blankets, pillows, and towels, or you can choose to buy them at a local supermarket upon arrival.

Question 14

Do all bedrooms have windows? Can the windows be opened?

Accepted Answer

Not all bedrooms have windows that can be opened. Before applying, you can contact a consultant to fill out your preferences, but the specifics will be based on the apartment's room assignments.

Question 15

How big is each bedroom?

Accepted Answer

The apartment does not provide specific dimensions for each bedroom. Based on feedback from students, it is approximately 12 square meters.

Question 16

Does the apartment have air conditioning?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the apartment is equipped with central air conditioning.

Question 17

Does the apartment have an elevator?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is an elevator in the apartment.

Question 18

Is the bedroom door locked?

Accepted Answer

Each bedroom is equipped with an independent electronic lock.

Question 19

Does the apartment provide a shuttle bus to the school?

Accepted Answer

No, such service is not provided.

Question 20

Is there a supermarket near the apartment?

Accepted Answer

There are several Chinese restaurants and fast food outlets around the apartment, and it takes about 10 minutes to walk to Far East Grocery or Green Street.

Question 21

What public facilities are available in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

The apartment offers a 24-hour gym and swimming pool, along with study rooms, entertainment rooms, parking spaces, and bike storage. It is also pet-friendly and has dedicated pet washing stations.

Question 22

How is the internet speed in the apartment? Can I install my own internet?

Accepted Answer

The apartment provides high-speed internet. If needed, you can connect your own network.

Question 23

Is it possible to film a video of my living room?

Accepted Answer

Typically, actual room videos cannot be filmed because they are occupied. However, you can watch live broadcasts of the apartment on the Jihjiao app, using sample rooms as references. The actual rooms share the same decor style with the sample rooms but lack soft furnishings and interior design. If you're local, the apartment will also offer to show the sample room.

Question 24

What is the difference between a studio and a 1B1B?

Accepted Answer

Studios and 1B1Bs have similar layouts, with the main difference being the living room, and studios are generally cheaper. A studio includes a bathroom and kitchen, but there are no separations between the kitchen, living room, and bedroom; whereas a 1B1B typically has one bedroom, one living room, one kitchen, and one bath.

Question 25

How is the soundproofing in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

The soundproofing in U.S. properties is typically not as good as in home country, but generally, off-campus apartments have better soundproofing than on-campus dorms. If you rent a studio or a 1B1B by yourself, the soundproofing will be better than if you are sharing. Higher floor units are usually quieter than lower floor ones. If noise from neighbors or roommates disturbs you, you can report it to the apartment front desk for assistance.

Question 26

Why is it free to book a room through Jihjiao?

Accepted Answer

Renting through Jihjiao is exactly the same as renting from the apartment directly. Most apartments in the U.S. are willing to collaborate with rental platforms and cover the commission, ensuring that the rent remains consistent regardless of the channel used. Therefore, Jihjiao does not charge any fees to tenants for apartments they partner with, providing a completely free service to help students with the booking process, avoiding potential issues and saving time, as well as providing necessary reminders. Your rent and deposits are directly paid to the apartments under a contract signed with them, and Jihjiao also offers a portion of the commission as cashback.

Question 27

Is there a fee to book this apartment through Jihjiao?

Accepted Answer

Booking through Jihjiao does not incur any fees; the contract is signed directly with the apartment, and all costs are paid directly to the apartment. Jihjiao consultants assist you in the booking process and will add our exclusive additional cashback on top of any discounts from the apartment.

Question 28

How often is the rent paid?

Accepted Answer

Rent is paid monthly, and the payment must be made before the 1st of each month for the upcoming month.

Question 29

How to pay rent?

Accepted Answer

You can pay through the apartment's online resident account using a Visa or MasterCard, or you can pay cash with a check or money order to the apartment.

Question 30

Can I pay rent with cash or wire transfer?

Accepted Answer

Hello, cash payments are not accepted in American apartments, and wire transfers are also not permitted. The available payment methods for rent are as follows: Paying with a check: For instance, you can use a cashier's check or money order and deliver it to the office or mail it to the apartment. Please print the tenant's name and room number on the check. A cashier's check needs to be issued at a US bank counter where you have an account, with a fee of about $5 to $10. Money orders: You can purchase them in cash or with a debit card at Walmart, Western Union, gas stations, or convenience stores, typically with limits of $500 to $1,000. For purchases over $2,000, please bring an ID or social security number.

Question 31

Does the rent include utilities like water and electricity?

Accepted Answer

Rent covers water, internet, and garbage disposal fees, but electricity is capped at $25 per person per month.

Question 32

What is renters insurance and why should I buy it?

Accepted Answer

In the U.S., many apartments require tenants to purchase renters insurance. This is because if you accidentally damage the property during your stay, such as leaking water that ruins floors or carpets, or damage to walls during a move, renters insurance can compensate you to the apartment or management company. The specific requirements depend on the apartment. Most insurances can be paid monthly or annually and are relatively inexpensive, averaging around $10 to $20 per month, and the amount of insurance will vary based on your coverage, area, and selected items.

Question 33

Does the apartment have a parking lot? Is it indoor or outdoor? What are the fees?

Accepted Answer

The apartment has a parking lot, with a fee of $75 per vehicle per month.

Question 34

What fees do I need to pay to apply for the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Hello, for detailed information about the fees, please refer to the fee detail section on the apartment's detail page.

Question 35

Why do I pay rent 12 times when my lease is less than a year, like 11.5 months?

Accepted Answer

In student apartments, fees are actually charged according to your actual rental period (e.g., 11.5 months), but for ease of calculation and management, the total amount of the housing contract is directly divided into 12 equal payments, with the same amount due each month. In this case, whether in the apartment lease or the website description, it is usually referred to as a 12-month installment payment. To facilitate management, apartments typically require monthly rent to be paid on the 1st or in advance. Late payments may incur late fees; for details, please refer to the relevant contract terms.

Question 36

What is the application fee for the apartment?

Accepted Answer

The application fee is the cost charged by the apartment for reviewing the applicant's materials, and it is a fee that everyone must pay when applying for an apartment. Note that this fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the application. The apartment will only process the application after the application fee has been submitted.

Question 37

What are the application fee and holding fee?

Accepted Answer

The application fee is charged by US apartments for the review of applicant materials and background checks. Once paid, the apartment will process the application regardless of the result, and this fee is non-refundable. The holding fee is charged to temporarily reserve a unit for the applicant while their background is reviewed, usually paid together with the application fee. This fee is also non-refundable and will later be applied to the security deposit.

Question 38

How is the security deposit refunded?

Accepted Answer

The security deposit is usually refunded at the end of the lease after the apartment checks the condition of the room. If everything is fine, it will typically be returned to the tenant by check.

Question 39

Can the security deposit be used to offset rent?

Accepted Answer

Hello, the security deposit cannot offset rent. At the end of the lease, the apartment will inspect the room for damage and any lost furniture or appliances. A cleaning fee may be charged based on the condition of the room, and a move-out bill will be issued to return the remaining deposit to the tenant after all inspections are completed.

Question 40

When does the rent start being calculated?

Accepted Answer

For student apartments, in order to simplify calculations, the yearly rent is averaged into 12 monthly installments, as indicated in the contract. The first month’s rent is usually paid before move-in, and thereafter, rent is paid on the 1st of each month for a total of 12 payments. Thus, regardless of the move-in date, the first month’s rent must be paid in full. For social apartments, the rent is calculated from the lease start date indicated in the contract; the first month's rent is typically paid before move-in, with subsequent payments made on the 1st of each following month. If the stay is less than a month during the start and end months, the rent for that month will be prorated. You are currently looking at a student apartment.

Question 41

What is the convenience fee when paying rent with a credit card?

Accepted Answer

The convenience fee is a processing charge incurred when paying with a credit card. International card networks like Visa and MasterCard impose an international transaction fee on issuing banks, typically between 1% to 1.5% per transaction. While billed to the bank, this fee is ultimately borne by the cardholder. Additionally, banks may charge various fees or exchange rates ranging from 1% to 2%. It is recommended that students pay rent with a US debit card to incur lower fees.

Question 42

What to do if the rent payment fails?

Accepted Answer

If there is a failure in online rent payment, it is usually due to payment limits set by the bank. It is advisable to attempt multiple smaller payments, switch to another bank card, or contact the bank to inquire about the reason.

Question 43

Can the parking fee be paid after getting a car?

Accepted Answer

If you need a parking space, you can go to the apartment front desk after moving in to complete the procedures and pay the parking fee. If you do not need a parking space, you do not have to pay this fee.

Question 44

Can I live with my designated roommate?

Accepted Answer

This is a student apartment that offers both bed and single room rentals, where each tenant signs an individual contract, meaning everyone is responsible only for their own lease. Room allocation is random, and you can choose your desired type of room when booking. The apartment will coordinate the allocation of rooms for each resident a while before check-in, and many students only receive their specific room numbers during the check-in process. If you have a roommate, you can inform the consultant when booking, and they will try to arrange you together, but this is not guaranteed. If you don't have a roommate, the apartment will match you with one based on lifestyle habits and same gender, usually not considering nationality or race to avoid discrimination issues.

Question 45

Can I choose my room? When will I know my room number?

Accepted Answer

In a student apartment, rooms are allocated randomly, but you can choose the type of room you want when booking. The apartment will coordinate the allocation of units and rooms for each resident a while before check-in, and many students typically receive their room numbers during the check-in process.

Question 46

Can I choose the floor and orientation?

Accepted Answer

Although student apartments randomly allocate rooms, you can indicate your preferences, such as preferred floor or sunlight conditions, at the time of application. If there are enough available rooms, the apartment will generally prioritize these preferences, but it is not guaranteed.

Question 47

Can boys and girls live together?

Accepted Answer

If you rent an entire apartment, mixed-gender living is allowed; however, if you are renting a single bed or room, tenants of the same gender are generally assigned together, unless there are specific requests.

Question 48

Is the rent I submitted on the application form my final rent?

Accepted Answer

Hello, the rent will be based on the amount at the time of signing the contract. After you submit the application, the apartment will review the tenant's background, and once approved, the contract will be signed based on the rent in the contract. Therefore, it is advisable for students to sign as soon as the contract is issued to avoid losses due to potential rent increases.

Question 49

What is the booking process?

Accepted Answer

The booking process is as follows (note: all fees are paid directly to the apartment, and the contract is signed directly with the apartment; Jihao Home does not charge any fees) 【Step 1】 Find the type of apartment you want to apply for in the Jihao Home app, click 【Apply Now】 to fill out the application form, a consultant will contact you to assist with the booking; 【Step 2】 Pay the application fee (the fee for the apartment to review the tenant's background), some apartments may charge a holding fee, and payment must be made before the apartment processes the application. Fees are non-refundable regardless of success or failure; 【Step 3】 The apartment will review the application materials and will send the contract once approved; 【Step 4】 Sign the contract; 【Step 5】 Pay the apartment deposit; 【Step 6】 Purchase rental insurance before check-in and pay the first month’s rent (if international students do not have an SSN, they usually need to pay two months' rent as a deposit, which will be refunded after the apartment checks the room at the end of the lease).

Question 50

What is the difference between booking through your platform and booking on my own?

Accepted Answer

The rental price is entirely the same whether you book through Jihome or find the apartment yourself. Most apartments in the U.S. are willing to cooperate with rental platforms and stipulate that the commission is borne by the apartment, ensuring that the rent is consistent regardless of the booking channel. Therefore, for apartments cooperating with Jihome, they do not charge tenants any fees and provide free assistance in handling booking procedures, avoiding and resolving possible errors or inconveniences, mitigating risks, saving your time, and providing necessary reminders before moving in. Your rent, deposit, and other fees are paid directly to the apartment, and you sign the lease agreement directly with the landlord. Moreover, Jihome will offer a part of the commission back to the students.

Question 51

Are the start date and lease term of the apartment fixed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a student apartment with a fixed start date and lease term.

Question 52

What is an individual lease?

Accepted Answer

Student apartments can be rented by bed or as an individual room, with each tenant signing what is known as an individual lease, meaning that each person is only responsible for their portion of the rental. If your roommate moves out, you don’t have to cover their rent.

Question 53

What materials are needed for the application?

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Click [Apply Now] on the type of apartment you wish to apply for; Step 2: Upload your passport and I20.

Question 54

Can freshmen live in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

According to UIUC's requirements, first-year undergraduate students are required to stay in university residential housing (URH) or private certificated housing (PCH); transfer students and graduate students in their second year or higher have the option to rent off-campus, subject to university regulations.

Question 55

Can I move in early?

Accepted Answer

Generally, American apartments do not allow early move-ins because the previous tenant may not have vacated, or the apartment needs to be cleaned after the last tenant leaves.

Question 56

What should I bring to my new apartment?

Accepted Answer

Although the apartment generally has basic furniture and appliances, here are some items that are not included, and tenants may consider preparing the following: Common areas: electronic products and corresponding cables/chargers, trash cans, trash bags, pots and pans, plates, cups, utensils, coffee makers, cleaning/disinfecting supplies, dish soap, laundry detergent, etc. Bedroom: sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, toiletries, shower hooks and curtains, trash cans, and anything that makes you feel at home.

Question 57

What time can I check-in locally? How do I do it?

Accepted Answer

Generally, check-in can only be done during the apartment's working hours. If you need to check-in early or late, you must contact the apartment in advance and follow their guidelines. Usually, you cannot check-in before the lease start date in the U.S. Required documents for check-in include your passport, electronic copy of the lease agreement, and electronic copy of rental insurance.

Question 58

When can I check into the apartment?

Accepted Answer

You can check in on the day the lease starts; if you arrive outside of the apartment's working hours, it is best to notify them in advance via email to arrange for check-in. Each apartment office has set working hours: (RESIDENT SERVICE HOURS Mon - Fri: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm, Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm). If you arrive after hours, you'll need to wait until the next day to check in. Some apartments do not operate on weekends, so plan your travel accordingly. Remember, an apartment is not a hotel; if you arrive after hours, please arrange temporary accommodations in advance.

Question 59

Can I check into the apartment a few days later?

Accepted Answer

You can check in a few days later, but it is advisable to inform the apartment in advance about the reasons for the delay and your expected check-in date. Please note that the rent must still be paid according to the schedule specified in the lease.

Question 60

Is open flame cooking allowed in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Hello, due to safety concerns, open flame cooking is generally not allowed in U.S. apartments, but you can cook normally.

Question 61

Do I have to clean my room after checking in?

Accepted Answer

Hello, after checking in, it is the tenant's responsibility to clean the room.

Question 62

Can I change rooms after checking in?

Accepted Answer

If you confirm with the apartment that there are available rooms, you can generally negotiate a room change. The apartment may charge a room change fee, and specifics should be discussed with them.

Question 63

What are the consequences of moving out before the lease ends?

Accepted Answer

You may move out before the lease expires, but you still need to pay the rent for the remaining months or sublease the room to someone else to pay the rent, otherwise it will be considered a breach of contract. Please be aware that breaching the contract not only results in losing your deposit but also entitles the apartment to pursue remaining rent and may adversely affect your credit history, potentially being reported to immigration authorities. If you refuse to pay the rent, the apartment might take legal actions.

Question 64

I signed a lease but want to back out, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

In the U.S., the content of contracts and signatures is highly significant. Once you sign a lease, you are obligated to adhere to all terms. If you cannot move in, it is advisable to sublease your room to someone else to continue paying rent, otherwise, it will be considered a breach of contract. Please take note: breaching the contract not only means losing your deposit, but the apartment has the right to recover all remaining rent, which can severely affect your personal credit record, and some apartments may even report it to the immigration department. If you refuse to pay rent, the apartment may resort to legal action.

Campus Circle

Basic Info

Amenities & Services

Price Trend

Champaign Campus Circle All Room Types

1 Bedroom

A1-Private

1 Bed 1 Bath A1-Private

1 Bed 1 Bath A1

2 Bedrooms

B1-Private

B2-Private

B3-Private

2 Bed 2 Bath B1-Private

2 Bed 2 Bath B2-Private

2 Bed 2 Bath B3-Private

2 Bed 2 Bath B1

2 Bed 2 Bath B3

2 Bed 2 Bath B2

4 Bedrooms

D1-Private

D2-Private

4 Bed 4 Bed D2-Private

4 Bed 4 Bed D1-Private

4 Bed 4 Bed D1

4 Bed 4 Bed D2

Cost Breakdown

Rent Includes

Apartment Regulations

How to refund a deposit

How to renew the lease

How to cancel a lease

How to sublet

FAQ

Guest Reviews

Map

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