Question 1

Does the apartment come with furniture?

Accepted Answer

The apartment is furnished, with a bed and desk chairs in the bedroom area. The living room includes a sofa, dining table, chairs, and a coffee table. The kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, gas stove, built-in microwave, and dishwasher. While basic furniture is provided, personal items such as bedding, cookware, and toiletries must be supplied by the tenant. Additionally, the bedroom does not have a ceiling light.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

The apartment provides internet service.

Question 3

What do shared and private mean in XBXB?

Accepted Answer

In the U.S., the naming convention for apartments is XBXB, where the first B represents the number of bedrooms and the second B represents the number of bathrooms; for instance, 3B3B signifies a unit with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Rooms marked as 【single】 or 【private】 denote single rooms, which accommodate one person; while those marked as 【shared】 or 【double】 refer to double rooms that accommodate two people.

Question 4

If I rent a single room, is the opposite room also necessarily a single room?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If you have signed a contract for a single room, you can only confirm that your room is a single room, while the room opposite could be either a single or a double room, depending on what the other tenant has rented.

Question 5

What are the bed sizes?

Accepted Answer

The double room is equipped with two twin XL beds (96.5cm×203cm); the single room has a Cal king bed (made by combining two twin beds; note that the mattress is specifically designed for this purpose, ensuring comfort), measuring 193cm*203cm.

Question 6

Is there a washer and dryer in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

No, there is a laundry room in the apartment.

Question 7

Do all the bedrooms have windows?

Accepted Answer

Yes, every bedroom has windows that can be opened.

Question 8

How large is each bedroom?

Accepted Answer

The apartment does not provide specific bedroom sizes, but based on student feedback, they are approximately 11 to 15 square meters; please refer to the actual occupancy.

Question 9

Does the apartment have air conditioning?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the room is equipped with central air conditioning.

Question 10

Does the apartment have an elevator?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is an elevator in the apartment.

Question 11

Does the bedroom door have a lock?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the bedroom door has a lock.

Question 12

Is it safe to live in an apartment?

Accepted Answer

The apartment is equipped with a 24-hour access control system.

Question 13

Does the apartment provide bedding?

Accepted Answer

The apartment does not provide personal items like sheets and comforters; it has beds and mattresses in the bedrooms, so please bring your own or purchase them at a local supermarket.

Question 14

Is there a shuttle bus to school from the apartment?

Accepted Answer

The apartment is very close to the school and can be reached on foot; there is no shuttle service.

Question 15

In what year was the apartment built, and how many floors and beds does it have?

Accepted Answer

The apartment was built in 2010 and has 8 floors with a total of 421 units.

Question 16

Is there a supermarket near the apartment?

Accepted Answer

There is a CVS supermarket downstairs, and you can walk to the USC living area in 5 minutes.

Question 17

What public facilities are available in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Facilities include 24-hour on-site security, a coffee bar, a business center, a gym, laundry facilities, and various leisure areas.

Question 18

Can I have a video of my room?

Accepted Answer

Generally, we cannot shoot videos of occupied rooms, but the apartment will provide a video of the model room for reference.

Question 19

What is the difference between a studio and 1B1B?

Accepted Answer

The main difference between a studio and a 1B1B is the living room; a studio is usually cheaper and doesn’t separate the kitchen from the bedroom, whereas a 1B1B typically has a separate bedroom, living room, kitchen, and bathroom.

Question 20

How is the soundproofing in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Compared to the domestic standard, soundproofing in US apartments may be slightly less effective, but off-campus apartments generally have better soundproofing than on-campus dorms, and higher floor units are quieter.

Question 21

Why is booking through Jihjiajia free?

Accepted Answer

Renting through Jihjiajia is the same price as renting directly from the apartment. Most apartments in the U.S. are willing to collaborate with rental platforms, which stipulate that the apartments bear the commission, ensuring that the rent remains the same regardless of the rental channel. Therefore, for apartments partnered with Jihjiajia, there are no fees for tenants, and we provide free assistance in booking procedures, helping to avoid and resolve potential issues during the process, minimizing risks, and saving your time. We also provide necessary reminders for students before moving in; rent, deposits, and other fees are paid directly to the apartment and a rental agreement is signed directly with them. Additionally, Jihjiajia will also offer some cashback to students from the commission.

Question 22

Is booking an apartment through Jihjiajia charged?

Accepted Answer

Booking through Jihjiajia is completely free; the contract is signed directly with the apartment, and all fees during the booking process are paid directly to the apartment. Jihjiajia advisors assist you with the booking process and also add our exclusive cashback on top of the apartment's offers.

Question 23

How often is rent paid?

Accepted Answer

The rent for the apartment is paid monthly and must be paid by the 1st of each month for the next month's rent;

Question 24

How to pay the rent?

Accepted Answer

You can pay the rent via the APP, which can be done easily within the app, and will be credited in 1-2 business days without minimum balance fees or occupying forex quota.

Question 25

Can rent be paid via transfer or cash?

Accepted Answer

No, American apartments do not accept cash, nor do they support wire transfers. There are two payment methods for rent: First, you can pay through the APP, which is simple and quick and gets credited within 1-2 business days; Second, you can pay by check, such as cashier's check or money order, provided to the office or mailed to the apartment. Please print the tenant's name and room number on the check. Cashier's checks must be issued at a U.S. bank counter, with a fee of about $5-10. Money orders can be bought with cash or debit cards at places like Walmart, Western Union, gas stations, etc., usually with a limit of $500-1000. Purchases over $2000 require an ID or Social Security number.

Question 26

Does the rent include utilities like water and internet?

Accepted Answer

Hello, please check the miscellaneous fees section in the detailed pricing of the apartment or consult an advisor.

Question 27

What is rental insurance? Why should I buy it?

Accepted Answer

In the United States, most apartments require tenants to purchase rental insurance to protect against accidental damage to the property during their stay, such as water damage to floors or carpets or wall damage from moving. Rental insurance helps you claim compensation from the apartment or management company and the specific requirements vary by apartment. Most insurance can be paid monthly or yearly, generally costing around $10 to $20 per month, and the insurance amount varies depending on the coverage, location, and selected options.

Question 28

Does the apartment have parking? Is it indoor or outdoor? How much is it?

Accepted Answer

For details on parking fees at the apartment, please refer to the specific fee details section.

Question 29

What fees are required to apply for an apartment?

Accepted Answer

Please refer to the fee details section on the apartment's detail page for payment information.

Question 30

Why do I have to pay rent 12 times if my lease is only 11.5 months?

Accepted Answer

For ease of calculation and management, many student apartments divide the annual rent into 12 payments, indicated in the contract as 12 installments. The first month’s rent is typically paid before moving in, followed by payments on the 1st of each month until the lease ends. Hence, regardless of the starting date, the full monthly rent must be paid for the first month.

Question 31

Are pets allowed in the apartment? If so, what are the fees?

Accepted Answer

Pets are not allowed in the apartment.

Question 32

What is the apartment application fee?

Accepted Answer

The apartment application fee is charged by the apartment to cover the cost of reviewing an applicant's materials, and is a required fee for everyone applying. Note that this fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. Only after the application fee is submitted will the apartment formally process the application.

Question 33

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

Accepted Answer

The application fee is collected by the apartment for reviewing application materials and background checks, and will not be refunded regardless of the application outcome once paid. The holding fee is charged to temporarily reserve a property while the applicant's background review is conducted and is typically paid alongside the application fee. This fee is non-refundable and later converted into part of the security deposit.

Question 34

How is the security deposit refunded?

Accepted Answer

Typically, the security deposit is refunded after the lease ends, once the apartment checks the tenant's room and finds no issues. The deposit is generally returned to the tenant by check.

Question 35

Can the security deposit be used to offset rent?

Accepted Answer

The security deposit cannot be used to offset rent. At the end of the lease, the apartment will inspect the room for damages and missing furniture or appliances, and may charge a cleaning fee based on the condition. After all checks are completed, a move-out statement will be issued, and the remaining deposit will be returned to the tenant.

Question 36

Does the rent calculation start from the day I move in?

Accepted Answer

To facilitate calculation and management, the apartment divides the annual rent into 12 equal installments, as stated in the contract. The first month's rent is usually paid before moving in, and then rent is paid on the 1st of each month until the lease ends with a total of 12 payments. Therefore, regardless of the start date, the full first month's rent must be paid.

Question 37

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

Accepted Answer

The convenience fee is the fee charged for making payments with a credit card. International card organizations like Visa or MasterCard charge issuing banks an international transaction fee of usually 1% to 1.5% per transaction. Although the fee is charged to the bank, it is actually borne by the cardholder. Additionally, banks may charge their own fees or exchange rates, typically ranging from 1% to 2%. Different banks have varying rates. It is recommended to use a U.S. debit card to pay rent as the fees are generally lower.

Question 38

What should I do if my rent payment shows as failed?

Accepted Answer

If the online rent payment shows as failed, it is usually due to the bank's payment limit. It is advisable to try making multiple payments, use a different bank card, or contact the bank for an explanation.

Question 39

Can I pay for parking after I get a car?

Accepted Answer

If you need a parking space, you can inquire and handle the necessary procedures at the apartment front desk after moving in, and pay the parking fee afterward. If you do not need a parking space, no payment is required.

Question 40

Can I be assigned to stay with a designated roommate?

Accepted Answer

This apartment is a student accommodation, which can be rented by bed or individual room, and each person signs an individual lease. Therefore, everyone is only responsible for their own lease. Rooms are assigned randomly in the apartment, and you can choose the desired layout when booking. A few weeks before moving in, the apartment will coordinate and allocate rooms for all residents, and most students will get their specific room number during the check-in process. If you have a roommate, you can inform the advisor during booking, and they will try to help arrange you together, but the apartment does not guarantee this. If you do not have a roommate, the apartment will match you with one based on lifestyle habits and gender, without inquiring about nationality or race to avoid discrimination issues.

Question 41

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

Accepted Answer

The student apartment randomly assigns rooms, but you can choose the unit type you prefer when booking. The apartment will coordinate and allocate the units and rooms for all residents a few weeks before moving in, and most students will receive their specific room number information during the check-in process.

Question 42

Can I choose a specific floor and orientation?

Accepted Answer

The student apartment randomly assigns rooms, but you can note your preferences for floor and orientation when applying (such as a preference for higher floors, sunny rooms, or roommate preferences, etc.). If there are sufficient available rooms, the apartment will prioritize meeting these requests, but it only aims to accommodate them without guaranteeing fulfillment.

Question 43

Can boys and girls live together?

Accepted Answer

If renting an entire unit, boys and girls can live together; however, if renting a bed or a single room, apartments typically assign same-gender tenants unless specified otherwise.

Question 44

Is the rent I submitted the final rent?

Accepted Answer

Hello, the rent when booking is based on the rent at the time of signing the contract; after submitting the application, the apartment will verify the tenant's background. If approved, a contract will be signed, and the rent is based on the amount stated in the contract. It is advisable for students to sign the contract as soon as it is issued to avoid any price increases by the apartment.

Question 45

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, Jihome does not charge any fees): [Step 1] In the Jihome app, find the apartment type you wish to apply for, click [Apply Now] to fill out the application form, and a consultant will contact you to assist with booking; [Step 2] Pay the apartment application fee (the fee for verifying tenant backgrounds), some apartments may require a reservation fee, see the fee details for reference, payment must be made before the apartment begins processing the application, and the fee will not be refunded regardless of the application's outcome; [Step 3] The apartment will review the application materials, and once approved, will send the contract; [Step 4] Sign the contract; [Step 5] Pay the apartment a security deposit; [Step 6] Purchase rental insurance before moving in and pay the first month's rent (international students without an SSN usually need to pay a two-month rent as a deposit, which will be refunded after the lease ends if the apartment checks the unit and finds no issues).

Question 46

What is the difference between booking through your platform and booking by myself?

Accepted Answer

When renting through Jihome, the rent remains the same as renting directly from apartments. Most apartments in the U.S. are willing to collaborate with rental platforms and are required to cover commission fees, ensuring that rent is consistent regardless of the channel used for leasing. Thus, for apartments collaborating with Jihome, there are no fees charged to tenants, and we provide free assistance in completing the booking process and resolving potential errors or issues that may arise, minimizing risks and saving your time while offering necessary reminders before moving in; your rent, deposit, and other fees are paid directly to the apartments, and you sign the lease directly with them. Additionally, Jihome will provide a portion of the commission as cashback to students.

Question 47

Are the rental start dates and lease terms fixed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this apartment is a student housing facility with fixed rental start dates and lease terms.

Question 48

What does individual lease mean?

Accepted Answer

Student apartments can be rented by bed or individual room, meaning that each resident signs an individual lease, where each person is only responsible for their portion of rent. If your roommate leaves midway, you are not required to cover their expenses.

Question 49

What materials are required for application?

Accepted Answer

Please refer to the apartment's [Application Materials] section for specific requirements. (Application materials are necessary for the apartment to review the tenant's background, and a lease contract is signed after approval.)

Question 50

Can under 18 book an apartment?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, according to US regulations, all students must be at least 18 years old at the time of check-in to stay in US apartments. If you are 17 years old but will turn 18 by the time of check-in, you may still make a reservation.

Question 51

Can I check in early?

Accepted Answer

In general, apartments in the US do not allow early check-in because the previous tenant may not have moved out yet or the apartment needs cleaning after their departure.

Question 52

What should I bring to my new apartment?

Accepted Answer

Although apartments typically come with basic furniture and appliances, there are some items that tenants should prepare: In common areas, bring electronic devices and their respective cords/chargers, trash cans, garbage bags, pots, bowls, plates, cups, utensils, and coffee pots. Don’t forget cleaning/disinfecting supplies, dish soap, laundry detergent, etc. In the bedroom, pack sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, toiletries, shower hooks and curtains, trash cans, and anything that makes you feel at home.

Question 53

When can I check in after arriving? How do I check in?

Accepted Answer

In general, check-in can only be done during the apartment's working hours. Early or late check-ins must be coordinated with the apartment ahead of time. Typically, you cannot check in to US apartments before the lease start date. Required documents for check-in include: passport, electronic version of the lease, and electronic version of rental insurance.

Question 54

When can I check in?

Accepted Answer

Check-in can be done on the same day the lease begins. If you arrive outside of the apartment's working hours, it's advisable to inform the apartment in advance via email so that they can arrange check-in. The apartment will have specified working hours (the office hours are: RESIDENT SERVICE HOURS M-F: 9AM-6PM). If you arrive after hours, you will have to wait until the next day to check in. Some apartments do not operate on weekends, so be sure to plan your flights and itinerary accordingly. Remember that apartments are not hotels, and if you arrive after business hours, you should arrange temporary accommodation ahead of time.

Question 55

Can I check in a few days late?

Accepted Answer

You can check in a few days late, but it is recommended to notify the apartment in advance, explaining the reason for the delay and your expected check-in time. However, rent must still be paid according to the timeline outlined in the contract.

Question 56

Is open flame cooking allowed in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Hello, open flame cooking is generally not allowed in US apartments for safety reasons, but cooking is still permitted.

Question 57

Do I need to clean my room after I check in?

Accepted Answer

Hello, after checking in, tenants are responsible for cleaning their own rooms.

Question 58

Can I change my room after checking in?

Accepted Answer

If the apartment confirms that there are available rooms, it is generally possible to negotiate a room change. However, the apartment will charge a room change fee, and whether it can be changed needs to be negotiated with the apartment.

Question 59

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

Accepted Answer

You can move out before the lease expires, but you must still pay the remaining rent for the months left on the lease or sublease the room to someone else to continue paying the rent; otherwise, it constitutes a breach of contract. Please note that breaching a contract not only means losing your deposit, but the apartment can also claim the remaining rent, which can seriously impact your credit record, and some apartments may even report it to the immigration authorities. If you refuse to pay the rent, the apartment may resort to legal action.

Question 60

What should I do if I want to back out after signing a lease?

Accepted Answer

In the United States, the content of contracts and signatures is very important. Once you sign a lease, you must fulfill all terms of the contract. If you cannot move in, it is advisable to sublease the room to someone else to continue paying the rent; otherwise, it will be considered a breach of contract. Please note, breaching the contract not only results in losing your deposit, but the apartment has the right to pursue the remaining rent and it seriously impacts your credit record, with some apartments even reporting it to immigration authorities. If you refuse to pay the rent, legal action may be taken by the apartment.

Question 61

Are friends allowed to stay overnight in the apartment?

Accepted Answer

It is allowed for a few days occasionally.

Question 62

What should I do if I want to terminate my lease early after moving in?

Accepted Answer

If you have already moved in and want to return to your home country early, you need to sublease the lease. You can post a sublease notice on the Jihao Home app to find a tenant. Until you find a tenant, the lease remains in your name, and you must continue paying rent. Once a tenant is found and the subleasing process is completed, you will have no financial responsibility for the apartment, and the tenant will pay rent to the apartment going forward.

Question 63

What do I need to do to move out when my lease is about to expire?

Accepted Answer

After the lease expires, if you do not intend to renew, you generally need to notify the apartment 60-90 days in advance. If you do not notify in advance, the apartment may automatically renew the lease, as specified in the contract and the apartment's explanation.

Question 64

Can I sublease if I signed a 12-month lease?

Accepted Answer

Yes, apartments usually have formal subleasing terms. Once you complete the standard subleasing process, you will no longer be financially responsible for the apartment. When subleasing, the apartment will charge a subleasing fee (see fee details). The subleasing process for apartments in the U.S. is as follows: Step 1: Post a sublease on the app to find a tenant. Step 2: Inform Jihao Home consultants about the person you are subleasing to; they will assist in the sublease process. Step 3: The apartment will collect a subleasing fee. Step 4: The tenant will complete the normal rental procedures, and once the contract is signed, the sublease will be successful.

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Los Angeles University Gateway All Room Types

1 Bedroom

1 Bed 1 Bath-Shared

1 Bed 1 Bath - Renovated-Shared

1 Bed 1 Bath - Renovated-Penthouse Shared

1 Bed 1 Bath-Private

1 Bed 1 Bath - Renovated-Private

1 Bed 1 Bath - Renovated-Penthouse Private

1 Bed 1 Bath

1 Bed 1 Bath - Renovated

2 Bedrooms

2 Bed 2 Bath-Shared

2 Bed 2 Bath - Renovated-Shared

2 Bed 2 Bath - Renovated-Penthouse Shared

2 Bed 2 Bath-Private

2 Bed 2 Bath - Renovated-Private

2 Bed 2 Bath - Renovated-Penthouse Private

2 Bed 2 Bath-Full 2 Bedroom Apt.

2 Bed 2 Bath - Renovated

2 Bed 2 Bath

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