We’re not going to sugar coat it—signing a lease is a legally binding decision that you’ll most likely be stuck with for the better part of a year. Stressful. Such a serious decision naturally will invoke thoughts of hidden fees, shoddy internet, and noisy neighbors can give students more anxiety than the first day of class.
But don’t bite your fingernails down to jagged stumps quite yet. We sifted through hundreds of reviews on Google left by the past and current tenants and crafted a list of places with only the cleanest of reputations for IUP off-campus housing.Â
According to the reviewers, here are the top IUP off-campus housing providers in Indiana.
Average rating on Google: 4.3
B&L Properties specializes in IUP off-campus housing and owns a number of student rentals in downtown Indiana. The company prides itself on making the transition from the dorms an easy one. In fact, they market their properties as the “anti-dorm.” Many of their units are updated and well-equipped for convenience, and the staff is always responsive and professional. Tenants also report that B&L gifts their residents with “rent-free” summers, allowing students to skip the grueling search for a summer subleaser.
“Our main goal has been to provide a high-quality customer experience for students, from leasing to maintenance,” said  Luke Martin, a managing partner of B&L Properties.
Our favorite review:
“B&L Properties has been an experience that every college student should and would want. Easy communication, great living conditions, and being so close to friends (my roommates) has been wonderful as it has made the whole college experience so much easier.”
Average rating on Google: 3.6
The Apartment Store’s branch in Indiana, PA manages a handful of properties within walking distance to campus. Students seem to love the locations and conveniences they provide, including a fitness center, off-street parking and more. Reviewers say staff members, namely Chantae, are always friendly and go above and beyond making sure the buildings and its tenants are cared for.
Our favorite review:
“The Apartment Store bought the building I was currently living in, and welcomed us all with gift baskets and information easing us into having new landlords. The ladies in the office are very warm and helpful, and are always providing a good laugh. The staff at The Apartment Store do frequent goodie bags for the residents, and recently hosted a cookout with lots of food and opportunities to win gift cards playing games. As a student at IUP, my building Crimson Cove isn’t a far walk off campus, and is also located right near the transit route, making it possible to safely travel to Philadelphia Street to enjoy the nightlife Indiana has to offer. In a college town, the rent prices are reasonable here, and they also offer specials, which is awesome for students. I would definitely re-sign a lease here, and recommend it to my friends in need of housing.”
Average rating on Google: 4.8
Locally owned and operated, Putt Real Estate, offers a wide variety of houses and apartments to student renters just minutes from the IUP campus. Students say the rent prices are incredibly fair (many utilities are included), and the management team is always accommodating to the needs of its tenants. In addition, maintenance requests are addressed almost immediately, so you won’t have to endure a leaky faucet or faulty wiring for longer than absolutely necessary.
Our favorite review:
“Wally was extremely knowledgeable in the real estate industry. His experience, professionalism, and courtesy have made me a believer. I would recommend him to anyone in need of real estate services, as I will be using him again in the future.”
Average rating on Google: 5.0
With a perfect score, you know these folks are doing something right! Owners Rory and Kasey have been local landlords for years now and have nailed down what students want and need, They manage a portfolio of houses and apartments that come fully furnished and won’t break the bank. Residents have nothing but good things to say about the units and the pair’s attention to detail and making their few years in college so great!
Our favorite review:
“I rented with RK from 2017–18 for my senior year of college and I couldn’t recommend it more. It’s a family run business that offers the cheapest rent off campus, especially for one bedroom apartments. The landlords actually care about you, unlike a lot of off-campus ‘big company’ landlords. I wish I could have spent longer there!”
Average rating on Google: 4.2
Located next to the Eberly College of Business, Pratt Studios features one of the most convenient off-campus locations. But the convenience doesn’t stop there. In addition to a nicely furnished studio, the rent you pay each semester—that’s right, you only have to write two checks— covers everything from utilities to cable and internet. Reviewers seem to agree that its great location, clean building and all-inclusive price makes it a perfect alternative to the dorms.
“Since taking over ownership in 2015, Pratt Studios has undergone extensive renovations while maintaining the most affordable price point around campus,” said Kameron Zitelli of Pratt.
Our favorite review:
“Very nice place to stay! It is located like it is on campus, but technically it is off campus. The owner and the staff are always willing to help you very quick especially when you ask…But I also like this place because they have everything included in the price and offer you everything you need for a fair price. Moreover, it was the best opportunity for me to get in contact with others because you share everything except your own room. All in all to me it feels like home here and I am happy that I chose this place for my year at the IUP!”
Callie Kollenbroich
Callie Kollenbroich has been the Operations Coordinator and Content Writer/Editor at Rent College Pads since 2015. When she's not working, you can find her at home, eating peanut butter out of the jar and bingeing an unhealthy amount of Forensic Files. She's not as lame as she sounds.