The demand for student housing is higher than ever, creating a valuable opportunity for you to expand your tenant base. Renting to international students comes with unique considerations, such as tenant screening and specific needs related to their temporary residency. This guide will provide practical tips to help you navigate these nuances and confidently offer a positive renting experience.
Fair Housing Laws Apply to International Students
It’s crucial for you to comply with fair housing laws to ensure equitable treatment and avoid potential legal issues. Fair housing laws, such as the Fair Housing Act in the United States, prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. This means landlords cannot deny housing to international students solely based on their nationality or immigration status.
Landlords are permitted to establish consistent and non-discriminatory criteria, such as requiring proof of income or a guarantor, as long as these requirements are applied equally to all applicants. Understanding and adhering to these laws not only protects you from legal repercussions but also fosters trust, making your properties more appealing to a broad tenant pool.
Additional Legal Considerations
While fair housing laws provide a foundation for equitable treatment, there are additional legal factors to consider when renting to international students, particularly around lease duration, visa requirements, and financial documentation.
Many students will have temporary residency under student visas, which may impact the duration of their leases. Before signing an agreement, ensure you’re familiar with local rental laws and regulations covering non-residents, such as rules about the verification of their visa status. It’s also crucial to know whether international students need a U.S.-based guarantor or additional proof of income.
Tips for Renting to International Students
International students may be navigating a new culture, having to adapt to a whole new environment with limited local resources. By recognizing their needs and taking thoughtful steps to overcome potential difficulties, you can foster a welcoming atmosphere that draws reliable, long-term renters—leaving a lasting positive impression!
Below are practical tips to help you successfully rent to international students while ensuring a favorable landlord-tenant experience.
1. Furnished rentals attract more international students.
When students are arriving from far away, it’s unlikely they’ll bring furniture with them. Offering a furnished apartment with essential items like a comfortable bed, a sofa, and a dining table can set your property apart from the many unfurnished options available. Additionally, furnished units often command higher rental rates, making them a win-win for both tenants and landlords.
2. Proximity to the school matters.
Being close to campus not only reduces commute times but also provides stability for students who are in unfamiliar territory and may not venture far from the school. Many may rely on walking, biking, or public transit, making a location near the university a top priority.
Additionally, living near their school allows the students to easily access campus facilities, such as libraries, study centers, and extracurricular activities, which are essential for academic success and social integration.
3. There are alternate ways to assess financial reliability.
You may find that international students lack a credit history or a social security number. An alternative method to verify creditworthiness is to require a guarantor, such as a relative or legal sponsor, who has a robust credit profile in the U.S. and can co-sign the lease.
Another option is to request proof of financial support, such as bank statements, scholarship letters, or documentation showing income from a stable source. You may also consider accepting prepayments, like several months’ rent upfront, to reduce the risk of missed payments.
4. Use technology to bridge language gaps with students.
Language barriers and miscommunication can be an obstacle when communicating with international students, but there are effective ways to address these issues. Using translation apps or services can help bridge language gaps during conversations or when explaining lease terms.
Maintain patience and aim for clear, concise communication, allowing time for questions to ensure understanding, especially when it comes to security deposits and renters insurance. Additionally, responding promptly to concerns and using a positive tone reinforces trust and helps create a tenant-friendly environment.
Landlord Tip: be mindful that cultural differences may affect living preferences and communication styles. A respectful approach will help create a positive experience for both you and your tenants.
5. Flexible lease terms benefit landlords and students.
Flexibility is crucial when renting to international students, as their visa durations and temporary stays don’t always align with standard year-long leases.
Providing early termination clauses with clear conditions can also ease concerns for students who might face sudden changes in their plans, such as visa issues or deciding to return home unexpectedly. These flexible practices not only attract more international tenants but also demonstrate your understanding and commitment to creating a positive rental experience tailored to their unique circumstances.
While international student renters come with specific considerations, such as navigating legal requirements, accommodating flexible lease terms, and addressing language barriers, these factors can be managed with practical solutions. By anticipating students’ needs and maintaining clear communication, you can provide a seamless rental experience.
List your property on Apartments.com today and connect with students actively searching for housing. With our extensive reach and easy-to-use platform, you'll attract reliable tenants while simplifying your rental process. Don’t miss the opportunity to fill vacancies faster—get started now!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do international students need a guarantor to rent a property?
International students may need a guarantor, especially if they lack a local credit history or steady income. A guarantor is typically a parent, guardian, or sponsor who agrees to cover the rent if the student is unable to pay. Alternatively, some landlords may accept a larger security deposit or prepayment of rent as an alternative to a guarantor.
2. How can landlords verify the financial stability of international students?
Since international students often don’t have a local credit history, landlords can request proof of financial support, such as bank statements, scholarship documentation, or a letter of financial sponsorship. Some students may also provide proof of part-time employment or prepayment of several months' rent.
3. Are there legal requirements on renting to international students?
Landlords must comply with fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on national origin or immigration status. While it’s legal to request standard rental application documents (e.g., proof of income, references), landlords cannot deny housing solely because a tenant is an international student or non-citizen.