University Hill Realty makes renting simple for you!

Renting with University Hill Realty

University Hill Realty makes renting simple for students. We offer a wide range of homes and apartments, from single rooms to five-bedroom houses, all located within walking distance of Syracuse University, SUNY ESF, Le Moyne College, and Upstate Medical University. A free campus bus service is also available throughout the neighborhood. We have invested heavily in upgrading and maintaining our homes to provide comfortable, efficient student housing.


Many of our homes include upgrades such as:

  • New roofs
  • Energy-efficient furnaces
  • Energy Star replacement windows and glass block basement windows
  • Deadbolt locks on all exterior doors
  • Energy Star appliances, including dishwashers
  • LED exterior security lighting
  • Coin-operated washers and dryers

Many of our homes also feature front porches, off-street parking, sanded hardwood floors, and upgraded carpeting.


Furnishings

Most University Hill Realty homes and apartments are unfurnished, allowing tenants to personalize their living spaces and often save money compared to furnished housing. Students typically coordinate furnishings with roommates or purchase affordable furniture locally.


Energy-Efficient Homes and Utilities

All utilities in our homes are tenant-paid, which helps keep rental prices lower. Tenants are responsible for electricity, gas, and internet service. Water service remains in the University Hill Realty account and is billed back quarterly based on actual usage. Because our homes have been upgraded with Energy Star appliances, modern furnaces, and energy-efficient windows, utility costs are typically lower than many older homes in the University Area. On average, utilities are estimated to be about $75 per person per month when averaged over a full year.


How to Rent a University Hill Realty Home


Step 1: Decide What You Need

Before you start searching, discuss the following with your group:

  • How many people will be living together?
  • How many bedrooms do you need?
  • What is your budget per person?

Remember that utilities are separate and typically average about $75 per person per month.


Step 2: Search Available Homes

Once your group has determined your needs, visit our website to view current available listings.

Each listing includes:

  • Photos
  • Amenities
  • Rental price
  • Lease start date

Rent is listed for the entire home or apartment, so you may divide the total by the number of tenants to estimate the cost per person.


Step 3: Schedule a Tour

We recommend selecting three or four properties that best match your group’s needs before scheduling tours. If you plan to live with roommates, it is helpful for everyone in the group to attend the tour together so decisions can be made more easily. Because we respect the privacy of our current tenants, we provide at least 24 hours’ notice before scheduling in-person showings. Many of our homes also offer self-guided virtual tours through Zillow, allowing you to explore the property online at your convenience. In addition, we can arrange guided virtual tours through AppFolio, where a member of our team will walk you through the home and answer questions in real time.


Step 4: Visit the Neighborhood

Before committing to a property, we recommend visiting the surrounding neighborhood. This helps you get a better sense of what it is like to live in the University Hill and Westcott areas, including nearby parks, restaurants, and campus access.


Step 5: Review the Sample Lease

A sample lease agreement is available on our website. We encourage all prospective tenants to review the lease carefully before making a decision.


Step 6: Compare Housing Costs

Take time to compare your current housing costs with off-campus housing.

For example, students currently living in dormitories should consider:

  • Monthly housing cost
  • Meal plan expenses
  • Utility costs

For University Hill Realty housing, estimate your cost as:

Monthly rent per bedroom + approximately $75 per month for utilities.

Many students find that off-campus housing offers more space and lower overall costs than dormitory living.


Step 7: Sign the Lease

When you or your group are ready to reserve a home, contact our office:

📞 (315) 422-0709
✉ rentals@universityhill.com


Leases are sent and signed electronically through our secure tenant portal, allowing you to sign documents and pay your deposit without visiting the office.

Of course, you are always welcome to visit us during office hours by appointment. Security deposit details can be found in our FAQ section, or you may contact us directly with any questions. All available homes are rented on a first-come, first-served basis.