Question 1

Does the apartment provide furniture?

Accepted Answer

The apartment comes fully furnished, including an XL Full-Size bed, vanity, desk, sofa, recliner, coffee table, and dining table or bar stools as per the floor plan. West 20 is also equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, washer, and dryer.

Question 2

What is the difference between shared and private in XBXB?

Accepted Answer

In the naming of apartments in the US, XBXB indicates that the first B is for the number of bedrooms and the second B is for the number of bathrooms; for example, 3B3B means there are 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. If the unit is labeled as 'single' or 'private', it refers to a single bedroom for one person; while 'shared' or 'double' indicates a double room suitable for two people.

Question 3

I rented a single room, does that mean the room opposite must also be a single room?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If you signed a single bedroom contract, it guarantees only your room is a single room. The opposite room may be a single or double room, depending on the roommate's rental situation.

Question 4

What is the size of the bed?

Accepted Answer

The bed size is XL Full-Size, approximately 137 cm × 203.5 cm.

Question 5

Is there a washer and dryer in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

Is there air conditioning in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the apartment is equipped with central air conditioning.

Question 7

Is there an elevator in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

No, the apartment is three stories tall and does not have an elevator.

Question 8

Is the bedroom door lockable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the bedroom door is equipped with a lock.

Question 9

Does the apartment provide bedding?

Accepted Answer

The apartment does not provide personal items like sheets and quilts. The bedroom is equipped with a bed and mattress, and tenants should bring their own bedding or purchase it at a supermarket.

Question 10

Does the apartment provide a shuttle service to the school?

Accepted Answer

The apartment does not provide a shuttle, but it is only a 6-minute walk to the school.

Question 11

What year was the apartment built? How many floors and beds are there in total?

Accepted Answer

The apartment was built in 2002, has a total of 3 floors, and offers 1,044 beds.

Question 12

Is there a supermarket around the apartment?

Accepted Answer

A 15-minute walk south will take you to a shopping area with several supermarkets and department stores, such as Butler Enterprises and Sam's Club.

Question 13

What public facilities are available in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

A newly built 24-hour fitness center, a resort-style swimming pool with a hot tub, basketball courts, beach volleyball courts, as well as a barbecue area, game room, and computer café.

Question 14

Can I record a video of my room?

Accepted Answer

Typically, you cannot record specific room videos due to existing tenants in the room, but the apartment will provide video tours of model units for reference, consistent with the overall decoration style. If local, the apartment may take students to tour the model unit.

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

A studio is similar to a 1B1B, with the main difference being whether there is an independent living room. Studios are cheaper than 1B1B, including a bathroom and kitchen but without separation; whereas a 1B1B has a separate bedroom, living room, and kitchen.

Question 16

How is the soundproofing of the apartment?

Accepted Answer

In the U.S., soundproofing in homes is typically poor, but soundproofing in off-campus apartments is usually better than in on-campus dorms. If you rent a studio or single room, the soundproofing is even better. Higher floor apartments are generally quieter, and if neighbors are too noisy, you can report it to the apartment front desk.

Question 17

Why is booking with Jihome free?

Accepted Answer

The rent booked through Jihome is the same as if rented directly. Most U.S. apartments are willing to cooperate with rental platforms and stipulate that the commission is borne by the apartment, ensuring that the rent is the same across different channels. Therefore, Jihome's services are completely free, assisting students with booking and ensuring all processes run smoothly while providing necessary reminders before move-in; rent, deposits, and other fees are paid directly to the apartment, and the rental contract is signed with the apartment. Additionally, Jihome will also offer students some cashback.

Question 18

Is there a fee for booking an apartment through Jihome?

Accepted Answer

Booking through Jihome incurs no fees; the contract is signed directly with the apartment, and all fees during the booking process are paid directly to the apartment. The Jihome consultant will assist you in completing all the booking procedures, and in addition to the discounts provided by the apartment, we will also add our exclusive cashback.

Question 19

How often is rent paid?

Accepted Answer

Rent for the apartment is paid monthly, with tenants required to pay the next month's rent before the 1st of each month.

Question 20

How to pay rent?

Accepted Answer

Payments are accepted via check, cashiers' check, or online systems, usually paid through the resident account online.

Question 21

Can rent be paid by transfer or cash?

Accepted Answer

No, U.S. apartments do not accept cash payments and do not support wire transfer payments. Payment methods include paying rent by check, cashiers' check, or in the form of a Money Order. Please indicate the tenant's name and room number on the check. Cashiers' checks must be issued at a U.S. bank, with a fee of about $5-10; Money Orders can be purchased at Walmart, convenience stores, etc., typically limited to $500-1000, and for amounts over $2000, identification or a social security number is required.

Question 22

Does the rent include utility and internet fees?

Accepted Answer

Rent includes internet fees, water fees, sewer fees, and garbage collection fees.

Question 23

What is renter's insurance? Why do I need to purchase renter's insurance?

Accepted Answer

In the United States, many apartments require tenants to purchase renter's insurance. This is to cover damages to the property, such as water damage to floors or damage to walls while moving. When purchasing renter's insurance, you can choose to pay monthly or annually, and the costs are generally low, averaging about $10-20 per month, with the insurance amount varying based on selected items, location, and coverage.

Question 24

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

Accepted Answer

Yes, the apartment has an outdoor parking lot, and it is provided for free.

Question 25

What fees are required when applying for an apartment?

Accepted Answer

For detailed fee information, please check the fee details section on the apartment information page.

Question 26

If my lease is less than a year, why do I still have to pay rent in 12 installments?

Accepted Answer

Student apartments charge fees based on the actual rental period (e.g., 11.5 months). For convenience, the total contract amount is averaged into 12 installments, with equal monthly payments. There is no distinction between deposit and rent; it is simply referred to as a 12-month installment payment. For ease of management, rent must be paid by the 1st of each month, and late payments may incur fees, specific details can be found in the contract.

Question 27

Does the apartment allow pets? What are the fees?

Accepted Answer

The apartment allows pets, with a pet fee of $200, which is a one-time non-refundable fee.

Question 28

What is the apartment application fee?

Accepted Answer

The apartment application fee is the charge for reviewing application materials, and anyone applying for an apartment must pay this fee, which is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. The formal review process begins only after the apartment receives the application fee.

Question 29

What is the difference between the application fee and the holding fee?

Accepted Answer

The application fee is charged by American apartments for reviewing the applicant's materials and background checks. The application will only be processed after payment; the holding fee is charged by the apartment to temporarily reserve a unit for the applicant, usually paid together with the application fee. This fee is non-refundable and will later be transferred to become part of the deposit.

Question 30

How is the deposit returned?

Accepted Answer

The deposit is usually refunded to the tenant by check after the apartment inspects the condition of the room at the end of the rental period, assuming there are no issues.

Question 31

Can the deposit be used to offset the rent?

Accepted Answer

No, the deposit can only be refunded after the rental period ends based on the condition of the room. After inspection, the apartment may charge a certain cleaning fee based on the actual situation, and a move-out statement will be issued, refunding the remaining deposit to the tenant.

Question 32

Is the rent calculated from the day of move-in?

Accepted Answer

Rent for student apartments is usually divided into 12 installments for the whole year. The contract will show '12 installments', with the first month's rent typically paid before move-in, and thereafter rent is paid on the 1st of each month for a total of 12 payments. Therefore, regardless of the move-in date, the first month’s rent must be paid in full; social apartments calculate rent from the contract’s start date, with the first month typically paid in advance.

Question 33

What is the convenience fee if I pay rent with a credit card?

Accepted Answer

The convenience fee is the service charge required for credit card payments. International card organizations like Visa or MasterCard charge the issuing bank a fee of 1% to 1.5% for international transactions, which is ultimately paid by the cardholder. Additionally, banks may charge fees or exchange fees ranging from 1% to 2%. It is recommended to use an American debit card to pay, as the fees are relatively lower.

Question 34

What should I do if the payment for rent shows as failed?

Accepted Answer

If online rent payment fails, it is usually due to bank limits on transaction amounts. It is advisable to try multiple payments or change bank cards, or contact the bank to inquire about the reason.

Question 35

Can the parking fee be paid after I have a car?

Accepted Answer

If a parking space is needed, you may go to the apartment front desk to handle it after check-in and pay the parking fee; if a parking space is not needed, then this fee does not need to be paid.

Question 36

Can I be assigned with designated roommates?

Accepted Answer

This apartment is a student apartment, and each resident signs an individual lease, meaning each person is only responsible for their own lease. The apartment will uniformly arrange rooms for each resident before check-in. If you have roommates, you can inform the consultant during booking to arrange them together as much as possible, but it is not guaranteed; if there are no roommates, the apartment will match tenants based on lifestyle habits and gender, without involving nationality or race.

Question 37

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

Accepted Answer

Student apartments randomly assign rooms, and you can choose the desired apartment type while booking. The apartment will organize uniform arrangements before check-in. Room numbers are only provided when checking in.

Question 38

Can I choose the specific floor and direction?

Accepted Answer

Student apartments randomly assign rooms, but preferences (such as floor preference, sunlight direction, etc.) can be indicated during application. The apartment will try to arrange according to preferences if there are enough vacancies, but it is not guaranteed.

Question 39

Do boys and girls share dorms?

Accepted Answer

If it is an entire apartment, mixed-gender accommodation is possible; if a bed or room is rented separately, the apartment will arrange for same-gender tenants unless there are special requests.

Question 40

Is the rent listed in the application form the final rent?

Accepted Answer

Rent is based on the amount at the time of signing the contract. After the application form is submitted, the apartment will review the background information, and upon approval, the contract will be signed, and the rent is determined by the amount specified in the contract. It is advisable for students to sign the contract as soon as possible to avoid rent increases.

Question 41

What is the booking process?

Accepted Answer

The booking process is as follows (Note: all fees are paid directly to the apartment, and contracts are signed with the apartment; Jihao Home does not charge any fees): Step 1: Find the type of apartment you want in the Jihao Home app, click 'Apply Now,' and the consultant will contact you to assist with the booking; Step 2: Pay the application fee (used for background check); some apartments may require a holding fee, which must be paid for the apartment to begin processing the application. The application fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome; Step 3: The apartment reviews the application materials, and if approved, a contract will be sent; Step 4: Sign the contract; Step 5: Pay the deposit; Step 6: Prior to check-in, you need to purchase rental insurance and pay the first month's rent (if international students do not have an SSN, they generally need to pay two months' rent as a deposit, which will be refunded after checking for issues).

Question 42

What is the difference between booking through your platform and booking independently?

Accepted Answer

Booking through the platform 'Jihao Home' has the same rental price as directly renting from the apartment. Most U.S. apartments are willing to cooperate with rental platforms and stipulate that the commission is borne by the apartment, ensuring consistent rental prices across different channels. Therefore, Jihao Home does not charge tenants any fees and assists students throughout the booking process to avoid mistakes and hiccups, providing necessary reminders before check-in. Corresponding rental, deposit, and other fees are paid directly to the apartment, and rental contracts are signed. Jihao Home also offers a portion of the commission as a cashback.

Question 43

Are the rental start date and duration fixed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a student apartment, and both the rental start date and duration are fixed.

Question 44

What is an individual lease?

Accepted Answer

Student apartments can be rented by bed or individual rooms, and each resident signs an individual lease, meaning each person is only responsible for their own room's costs. If one of your roommates moves out partway through the lease, you do not need to bear their costs.

Question 45

What materials are required to apply for the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Click on 'Apply Now' for the type of apartment you want; Step 2: Upload your passport and I20 form.

Question 46

Can someone under 18 book an apartment?

Accepted Answer

If there are children under 18, they must live with at least one parent, legal guardian, or another person with legal guardianship. For family members over 18, they must complete an application and sign the lease, allowing at least two people to share one bedroom. For families with children under 18, extra occupants may be allowed based on various factors, such as housing configuration, child age, and house size, while adhering to local occupancy regulations. Children over 18 can continue to reside until the contract ends but must adhere to regulations for renewal. If the resident is under 24 months at the time of signing, they do not count towards the maximum occupancy; however, after reaching 24 months, they do count. The apartment reserves the right to rent empty bedrooms.

Question 47

Can I check in early?

Accepted Answer

Generally, U.S. apartments do not allow early check-in because the previous tenant has not moved out or needs cleaning.

Question 48

What items should I bring to the new apartment?

Accepted Answer

Although the apartment is equipped with basic furniture, the following items are not included, and it is recommended to prepare them yourself: common areas: electronic products and their power cords/chargers, trash cans, trash bags, kitchen utensils, plates, cups, cutlery, and coffee pots; cleaning supplies, dish soap, laundry detergent, etc.; bedroom: bed sheets, comforters, pillows, towels, personal toiletries, shower curtains, and any items that make you feel at home.

Question 49

What time can I check in upon arrival? How do I check in?

Accepted Answer

Check-in is generally only possible during the apartment's office hours. Early or late check-in must be communicated with the apartment in advance, and check-in should not be earlier than the start date. Required documents for check-in include: passport, an electronic version of the lease, and electronic proof of rental insurance.

Question 50

When can I check in?

Accepted Answer

Check-in is possible on the day the rental period begins. If you arrive outside of the apartment's working hours, it is recommended to inform in advance via email for check-in arrangements. The management office has fixed working hours: Monday to Friday: 9 AM - 6 PM, Saturday: 10 AM - 4 PM, Sunday: 12 PM - 4 PM. If your arrival time exceeds the office hours, you must wait until the next day for check-in. Some apartments are not open on weekends, so please plan your travel and flights accordingly.

Question 51

How long can I be late if I do not check in at the contracted rental time?

Accepted Answer

You can check in a few days late, but it is advisable to inform the apartment in advance about the reasons for your delay and your expected check-in time. Rent must still be paid on schedule according to the contract.

Question 52

Can I use an open flame for cooking in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Generally, apartments in the U.S. do not allow open flames for safety reasons, but normal cooking is still permitted.

Question 53

Do I need to clean the room by myself after checking in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, after checking in, you are responsible for cleaning the room yourself.

Question 54

Can I change rooms after moving in?

Accepted Answer

If the apartment confirms there are vacant rooms, it is usually possible to negotiate a room change, and a room change fee may apply; specific situations need to be discussed with the apartment.

Question 55

What will happen if I move out before the contract ends?

Accepted Answer

You can move out before the lease term is up, but you will still need to pay the remaining months' rent or sublease the apartment, and any associated costs must also be paid. Please pay special attention, as breaching the contract may lead to loss of your deposit and negative impacts on your future credit history, and some apartments may even notify immigration. Refusing to pay rent may result in legal action.

Question 56

I have applied for and signed a lease, but I want to back out, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

In the US, once a contract is signed, it must be followed. If you cannot move in, it is recommended to sublease the room to someone else, otherwise it will be considered a breach of contract. Note that breaching the contract can result in loss of the deposit and affect personal credit, and the apartment has the right to claim remaining rent and even notify immigration.

Question 57

Does the apartment allow friends to stay over?

Accepted Answer

It is allowed for a few days.

Question 58

How can I terminate my lease early if I have already moved in?

Accepted Answer

If you have already moved in and wish to return home early, you need to sublease the contract. You can publish subleasing information on the app to find a tenant. Until you find a tenant, the contract remains under your name, and you must continue paying the rent. Once you find a tenant and complete the subleasing process, you will no longer be responsible for the rent, and the subsequent rent will be paid by the tenant.

Question 59

What requirements are there for processing the termination of the lease when it is nearing expiration?

Accepted Answer

If you do not wish to renew the lease, you must notify the apartment 60-90 days in advance; otherwise, it may automatically renew. Please refer to the contract for specific rules.

Question 60

I signed a 12-month lease; can I sublease it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the apartment usually has formal subleasing terms. Once the formal subleasing procedures are completed, you will no longer be responsible for the property. When subleasing, the apartment will charge a sublease fee, see fee details. The subleasing process for US apartments is as follows: Step 1: Publish sublease information on the app to find a tenant; Step 2: Inform the consultant about the subtenant, and the consultant will assist you in completing the sublease procedures; Step 3: The apartment will charge a sublease fee; Step 4: Once the subtenant normally completes the rental procedures and signs the contract, the sublease is completed.

Question 61

What should I do if I want to renew my lease after the rental period ends?

Accepted Answer

Generally, students can renew their lease for the next year after moving in, with the renewal period typically between October and December. Please contact the apartment office in advance if you need to renew.

Question 62

What should I pay attention to when processing the termination of lease after the rental period ends?

Accepted Answer

When terminating the lease, you need to restore the apartment to its original state at move-in, including cleaning the room, leaving no personal belongings or trash, checking that all facilities are in good condition, and filling out a departure checklist to review with apartment staff to ensure the cleaning meets the standards for full refund of the deposit. Please also provide the correct check payee and mailing address to the apartment.

Question 63

Will the apartment accept my packages before I move in?

Accepted Answer

Generally no, the apartment requires that you complete the check-in process in person before they can accept packages.

Question 64

Who should I contact for repairs if there are issues with the facilities in the room?

Accepted Answer

For repairs, please visit the apartment's official website resident account to fill out a maintenance request; you can also call or go to the front desk. In an emergency, please notify the front desk immediately.

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