BGSU requires students to live on campus for their first two years of attendance. However, a common exception to this is living within a 50-mile radius of campus and many students are using this to their advantage, finding a place of residence within these boundaries.
There are over 28 different off-campus housing agencies and landlords available to students. Some of the more popular locations amongst students are The Edge, Mecca Management and Greenbriar. Each of these companies offers multiple different locations in Bowling Green.
The Edge
The Edge is located at 706 Napoleon Rd. This housing complex offers townhouse-style areas that accommodate 4 beds and 2 baths. The standard lease term is 12 months, this will include monthly payments averaging $475 with a $100 deposit. The Edge offers many unique features to students such as a computer lab, is included in the Bowling Green State University shuttle route and is pet friendly. Dogs and cats must be approved by management and require a $300 non-refundable pet fee, along with an additional pet rent of $20 per month. Pets must meet breed and weight restrictions with a limit of one animal per person. The Edge is currently signing leases for the fall semester of 2024.
Mecca Management
Mecca properties are distributed over Bowling Green, this company offers both houses and apartments. These properties are offered from one to three beds and one to one-and-a-half baths. The standard lease for Mecca properties is 12 months, including monthly payments between $632 and $760, with a security deposit the same amount as one month’s rent. Mecca does offer onsite laundry, however, dogs and cats are not permitted on-site. The first available move-in date offered is mid-October of 2023.
Greenbriar
The majority of Greenbriar locations are set in West Bowling Green near Wooster St. Both apartments and houses are available with an option of furnishing for a slightly increased rent. The average rate is $300 a month with a deposit the same amount as the first month’s rent. Greenbriar has different leasing options to choose from both leasing and subleasing. No pets are permitted at Greenbriar. However, for an extra $100 per month, a second occupant can be added to the lease. Greenbriar is currently offering immediate move-in.
Another factor to consider is the inclusion of utilities in pricing. Some housing fully covers utilities in price, for example, The Edge covers internet, trash, water and sewer included with rent. The average cost of basic utilities in Bowling Green is $123.87 per month.
With a record of no credit or low income students may need a cosigner. Generally, students will require a cosigner in order to lease their new living space. This allows the landlord to have a safety net when renting to students if a student cannot complete their lease or obtain unforeseen damages.
Students gain the advantage of selecting their own roommates. Some housing companies offer a personality test to match up students with somebody similar to themselves. Some things to consider when moving in with others are communication, belongings and conflict resolution. Also in what might initially appear as a promising prospect, moving in with a friend warrants careful contemplation, as it carries the potential for an awkward situation and may cause a strain on friendship.
As the hunt for fall 2024 and spring 2025 housing commences, there is a high demand for off-campus housing among students at a reasonable rate. According to multiple housing websites, it is highly recommended to reach out to landlords at least 6 months in advance.
