Peer on 7th · Columbus, Ohio
The Complete OSU
Off-Campus Housing Guide
Everything you need to find, lease, and love your apartment near Ohio State University
Schedule a Tour50 E 7th Ave, Columbus OH 43201 · (380) 300-4114 · peeron7th.com
Chapter 1
How the OSU Housing Market Works
Timing, competition, and why most students start too late
The Search Starts Earlier Than You Think
If you're planning to move off campus for fall semester, the process begins in September — a full year before you move in. At Ohio State, where tens of thousands of students compete for apartments within a mile or two of campus, the best units in the most popular buildings fill up fast.
The OSU Leasing Timeline at a Glance
| September–October | Off-campus housing search begins. Properties start showing units. |
| November–December | Most competitive leasing period. Many popular floor plans are gone by Thanksgiving. |
| January–February | Most students in purpose-built student communities sign in this window. |
| March–May | Remaining units available, but selection is limited. You may not get your preferred floor plan. |
| After May | Options become scarce. You'll still find places, but further from campus. |
Why Lease Early?
Signing early at Peer on 7th gives you three specific advantages:
- Choice of floor plan — studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedrooms don't all remain available through spring
- Roommate selection — coordinating with friends is much easier on the same timeline
- Best pricing — Peer on 7th offers its best rates earlier in the leasing season
Pro Tip: Set a Calendar Reminder
Set a reminder for September 1st to start your search, and another for November 1st as a decision deadline. If you're entering your sophomore year, start looking the September of your freshman year.
Chapter 2
Understanding Your Options
Floor plans, leasing structures, and what "fully furnished" really means
Floor Plan Types at Peer on 7th
Peer on 7th offers four floor plan categories, all located at 50 E 7th Ave in Columbus's Weinland Park neighborhood — right on N. High Street.
Studio
Compact, fully furnished. Ideal for students who want total privacy. Full kitchen and one bathroom.
1-Bedroom
Full bedroom separate from the living area. Perfect for a single student who wants more space.
2-Bedroom
Two private bedrooms, shared living area and kitchen. By-the-bed leasing means you're only responsible for your share.
3-Bedroom
Three private bedrooms. The most economical per-person option — popular with friend groups.
By-the-Bed Leasing: What It Means and Why It Matters
Most traditional apartments use a "whole-unit" lease where all roommates share responsibility for the full rent. If one roommate doesn't pay, the others are liable. Peer on 7th uses by-the-bed leasing — which works differently.
How By-the-Bed Leasing Works
| Each resident signs | Their own individual lease for their bedroom only. You are responsible only for your own rent. |
| What you pay for | Your bedroom + your proportional share of common areas. |
| What you don't pay for | Anyone else's share — ever. |
| Biggest benefit | You don't need to find roommates before signing. The leasing team can match you. |
Fully Furnished: What's Actually Included
"Furnished" means different things at different properties. At Peer on 7th, every bedroom and common area comes move-in ready with real furniture — not just a bed frame.
| Living Area | Sofa, entertainment center, 55" Smart TV |
| Each Bedroom | Full-size bed + memory foam mattress, desk, chair, two dressers, side table |
| Kitchen | Stainless steel appliances (fridge, microwave, dishwasher), quartz countertops, kitchen island with bar seating, in-unit washer/dryer |
| Extras | Wood-style plank flooring, pendant lighting, quartz countertops, luxe wood blinds |
| You Bring | Bedding, pillows, towels, dishware, clothing, and personal items — that's it |
What Furnished Apartments Save You
Moving a full bedroom set from home to Columbus (or buying one new) typically costs $1,500–$3,000 plus a truck rental. A furnished apartment eliminates that entirely. For students flying in from another state or country, this isn't optional — it's essential.
Chapter 3
Understanding Your Costs
Rent, utilities, deposits, and the full monthly picture
What's Included in Rent at Peer on 7th
When comparing apartment costs, the headline rent number rarely tells the whole story. Here's exactly what's included — and what isn't.
| Included in Rent | Wi-Fi, trash service (chutes and recycling rooms on every floor) |
| Not Included | Electric, water, sewer — billed monthly via the resident portal based on usage |
| Furniture | Included — no additional charge |
| 55" Smart TV | Included |
| Washer/Dryer | In-unit — included |
| Parking | Reserved garage parking available — contact leasing office for current rates |
| Renters Insurance | Required. Auto-enrolled in partner program; your own policy also accepted. |
Sample Monthly Budget — 1-Bedroom, One Resident
| Rent (per bed) | Starting from $1,925/mo — contact leasing for current floor plan pricing |
| Wi-Fi | $0 (included) |
| Trash | $0 (included) |
| Electric | Approx. $30–$60/mo depending on usage |
| Water/Sewer | Approx. $20–$40/mo |
| Renters Insurance | Approx. $10–$15/mo |
| Guarantor Waiver (if applicable) | Approx. $70/mo |
| Groceries | $200–$350/mo (Kroger is a 2-min walk) |
Application and Move-In Costs
Before your first rent payment, you may encounter the following. Peer on 7th periodically waives application and admin fees — check current promotions when you apply.
| Application Fee | Contact leasing office — may be waived during promotions |
| Admin Fee | Contact leasing office — may be waived during promotions |
| Security Deposit | Equal to 2 months' rent. Not required if qualifying via guarantor or Guarantor Waiver Program. |
| Guarantor Waiver Fee | ~$70/month (no upfront cost — added to monthly charges) |
| Pet Fee | One-time non-refundable fee + monthly pet rent. Contact leasing for current amounts. |
Always Budget Beyond the Rent Number
An apartment at $1,100/mo that doesn't include Wi-Fi, parking, or furniture may cost you more than a fully furnished apartment at $1,300/mo that includes all three. Always compare total monthly cost, not just headline rent.
Chapter 4
How to Qualify
Guarantors, credit requirements, and options for every situation
Peer on 7th offers four ways to qualify, designed to work for students at every stage — whether you have a US credit history or not.
Option 1: US Guarantor
A guarantor is typically a parent or guardian who co-signs your lease. This is the most common option for domestic students.
| Who Qualifies | US resident with valid Social Security number |
| Credit Score | 600 or higher |
| Income Required | 3× the monthly base rent |
| Documents | Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letter) |
| Background Check | Yes — credit, background, rental history, and income screening |
Option 2: Self-Qualification
If you have your own income and credit history — common for graduate students or working undergrads — you can qualify without a guarantor.
| Credit Score | 600 or higher |
| Income Required | 3× the monthly base rent |
| Documents | Proof of income |
| Background Check | Yes |
Option 3: Security Deposit
Available for domestic, international, and independent students. If you don't have a guarantor and prefer not to use the waiver program, you can qualify by paying a deposit upfront.
| Amount | Equal to 2 months' rent |
| Timing | Paid at lease signing |
| Refundable? | Yes — subject to standard move-out inspection |
Option 4: Guarantor Waiver Program — International & Independent Students
Peer on 7th's most flexible option. Offered through a third-party provider, this program eliminates the need for both a US guarantor and a security deposit.
| Monthly Fee | Approx. $70/month (added to rent) |
| Upfront Cost | None |
| Approval | Instant upon verification of student status |
| Who It's For | International students, students without a US guarantor, students without US credit history |
| Key Advantage | No large upfront payment — especially useful for students arriving from abroad |
For International Students Specifically
You do not need a US credit score or a US Social Security number. Your passport or visa documentation is sufficient ID to complete your application. You can sign your lease remotely via FaceTime or virtual tour — securing your apartment before arriving in Columbus. International students are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible, ideally while the previous academic year is still in session.
Chapter 5
Your Neighborhood
Short North, Weinland Park, High Street, and everything in between
Peer on 7th sits at 50 E 7th Ave — at the corner of N. High Street and E. 7th Ave in the Weinland Park neighborhood. This puts you at the intersection of Columbus's two most vibrant zones: the OSU University District to the north and the Short North Arts District to the south.
Getting to Campus
| Walking (Recommended) | A 10-minute walk along High Street gets you to Graves Hall, Hamilton Hall, and the Moritz College of Law. Flat, well-lit, and student-trafficked the whole way. |
| COTA Bus (Free with BuckID) | The COTA bus stop is directly outside at N. High St & E. 7th Ave. Free for OSU students with BuckID. |
| CABS (Free Campus Bus) | OSU's free on-campus bus system. Best for getting between buildings once you've arrived on campus. Track in real-time via the Ohio State mobile app. |
| Biking | On-site bike racks available. The ride to campus is under 10 minutes through a highly bikeable neighborhood. |
Food and Dining Near Peer on 7th
Groceries
Kroger is a 2-minute walk — as close as it gets for a full-service grocery store. Target (OSU location) is a short distance away on High Street, and Lucky's Market in Victorian Village is nearby for specialty and organic items.
Entertainment and Nightlife
- Gateway Film Center — indie and art films, 10 minutes away
- Newport Music Hall — Columbus's premier live music venue, steps away
- Short North First Fridays — monthly gallery hops and street festivals
- Eupouria — live music and events
- OSU Stadium — 15-minute walk for game days
Healthcare
Ohio State Wexner Medical Center — one of the nation's top academic medical centers — is within walking distance. OSU Student Health Services is also on campus for day-to-day health needs.
Chapter 6
Life at Peer on 7th
Amenities, community spaces, and what to expect on move-in day
Community Spaces
| Study Lounge & Private Rooms | Co-working stations with optimized Wi-Fi for video calls and research. Private study rooms available for group projects, exam prep, or solo work. |
| Penthouse Lounge & Rooftop Terrace | The social heart of the building. Residents gather to watch movies, study together, or decompress. The rooftop terrace offers views of the Columbus skyline and Short North. |
| Fitness Center | Fully equipped, on-site, open to residents at any time. No gym membership needed. |
| Courtyard Spaces | Two distinct outdoor spaces: one with a firepit and hammock garden, and a separate courtyard with a grilling station. Popular on evenings and weekends. |
| Coffee Bar | Complimentary — no charge for residents. Start your morning in the building before heading to class. |
Every Apartment Includes
- Full furniture package: bed, mattress, desk, chair, dressers
- Sofa, entertainment center, 55" Smart TV
- In-unit washer and dryer — no shared laundry
- Stainless steel appliances: refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher
- Quartz countertops with subway tile backsplash
- Kitchen island with bar seating (select units)
- Pendant lighting throughout
- Wood-style plank flooring
- Luxe wood blinds
- Wi-Fi included
- Private balcony (select units)
- Walk-in closet (select units)
Services and Operations
| Office Hours | Mon–Fri: 10am–6pm | Sat: 10am–5pm | Sun: Closed |
| Maintenance | On-site team; 24/7 emergency maintenance via resident portal |
| Package Room | Secured package room on-site — never miss a delivery |
| Bike Storage | On-site bike racks |
| EV Charging | On-site EV charging stations |
| Trash | Chutes and recycling rooms on every floor — included in rent |
| Parking | Reserved garage parking available — contact leasing for details |
| Resident Portal | Pay rent, submit maintenance requests, manage your account at peeron7th.residentportal.com |
Chapter 7
Reading Your Lease
Key terms every student renter should understand before signing
A lease is a legally binding document. At OSU, Student Legal Services offers free lease reviews to enrolled students — an underused resource that can catch problems before you sign.
Core Lease Terms Defined
| Lease Term | The length of the contract. Peer on 7th offers 12-month leases. Know your start and end dates before signing. |
| By-the-Bed / Individual Lease | Each resident signs separately and is responsible only for their own portion of rent. This is Peer on 7th's model. |
| Joint and Several Liability | The opposite of by-the-bed: all roommates share full responsibility for the total rent. Not the Peer on 7th model. |
| Security Deposit | Money held by the landlord against damages. At Peer on 7th, the deposit equals 2 months' rent and is one of several qualification options — not always required. |
| Guarantor | A financially responsible co-signer, typically a parent. Required if you don't qualify on your own income/credit. Must be a US resident at Peer on 7th. |
| Early Termination Clause | The penalty for breaking a lease before the end date. Read this carefully before signing. |
| Subletting Policy | Whether you can rent your apartment to another person temporarily. Check the policy before making summer plans. |
| Renewal Notice Period | How far in advance you must notify the property if you're not renewing. Peer on 7th does not auto-renew residents. |
| Pet Addendum | If you have a pet, make sure a pet addendum is included and signed. Pets without documentation can result in fees or lease violations. |
| Renters Insurance | Required at Peer on 7th. Covers your personal belongings — the building's insurance does not cover your laptop, furniture, or clothing. |
Use OSU Student Legal Services Before You Sign
Ohio State's Student Legal Services offers free lease reviews to enrolled students. A 30-minute review can catch problematic clauses, explain your rights, and help you understand what you're agreeing to. Find them at studentlegal.osu.edu.
Questions to Ask Before Signing Any Lease
- What is the exact move-in date, and when can I pick up keys?
- When is first month's rent due?
- What utilities are included, and what will I be billed for?
- What is the early termination penalty?
- What is the subletting policy?
- How is the security deposit returned, and what can it be deducted for?
- What is the noise/guest policy?
- Is there a renewal notice deadline, and when is it?
- What is the maintenance response time?
- Is there parking, and what does it cost?
- What is the pet policy, and what documentation is required?
Chapter 8
Your Move-In Checklist
What to bring, what to do on day one, and how to set yourself up right
Because Peer on 7th is fully furnished, your move-in list is significantly shorter than a traditional apartment.
Bedroom Essentials
- Full-size bedding (fitted sheet, flat sheet, comforter or duvet)
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Towels and washcloths
- Hangers and closet organizers
Kitchen and Bathroom
- Dishes, bowls, cups, glasses
- Silverware set
- Basic pots, pans, and cooking utensils
- Dish soap, sponge, paper towels
- Bathroom toiletries and storage
- Shower curtain (confirm with leasing office)
Electronics and Study
- Laptop and charger
- Power strip (surge protector recommended)
- Headphones
- Desk lamp
Documents to Have on Hand
- Copy of your signed lease
- Government-issued ID or passport
- OSU student ID (BuckID)
- Renters insurance policy number
- Emergency contact information
Day One: What to Do Immediately
- Document the apartment condition — photograph every wall, floor, appliance, and window. Email photos to yourself to create a timestamped record. This protects your security deposit at move-out. (Residents receive a condition form via their portal.)
- Set up the resident portal — you'll pay rent and submit maintenance requests here. Do this before your first payment is due.
- Connect to building Wi-Fi — get the network credentials from the leasing office. Wi-Fi is included.
- Test all appliances — run the washer, check the dishwasher, test the stove burners. Report anything that isn't working within 24 hours.
- Introduce yourself to the leasing office and pick up any welcome materials, access cards, or fobs.
- Locate emergency exits and the fire extinguisher on your floor.
- Register your bike if you're bringing one, and get a quality lock.
Chapter 9
How to Apply
Step-by-step application process and what to expect
- Schedule a tour — in-person, virtual (FaceTime), or pre-recorded video tour. Available Mon–Fri 10am–6pm and Sat 10am–5pm. Walk-ins welcome.
- Choose your floor plan — studio, 1BR, 2BR, or 3BR. Ask the leasing team what's currently available and what's likely to fill first.
- Select your qualification method — guarantor, self-qualify, security deposit, or Guarantor Waiver Program.
- Submit your application online via the resident portal at peeron7th.com. You'll need your ID (passport for international students) and documentation for your qualification method.
- Sign your lease — individual leases are signed digitally. You can sign from anywhere, including before arriving in the US.
- Pay any required upfront fees — application and admin fees (sometimes waived — check current promotions).
- Receive your move-in confirmation and get ready to move in!
Contact the Leasing Team
| Phone / Text | (380) 300-4114 |
| Website | peeron7th.com |
| Address | 50 E 7th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 |
| Office Hours | Mon–Fri 10am–6pm | Sat 10am–5pm | Sun Closed |
| @peer.on7th | |
| OSU Off-Campus Network | offcampus.osu.edu (in-network property) |
Chapter 10
Quick Reference Card
The numbers and dates you'll actually use
Key Dates to Remember
| Start Your Search | September — one year before your move-in |
| Ideal Lease Signing | November–January for best selection and rates |
| Latest to Sign | February–March (limited floor plans remain) |
| Typical Move-In | August — start of fall semester |
| Renewal Notice Deadline | Ask your leasing agent at signing — mark your calendar |
Useful OSU Resources
- OSU Off-Campus Housing Searchoffcampus.osu.edu
- Student Legal Services (Free Lease Review)studentlegal.osu.edu
- CABS Bus TrackingOhio State Mobile App
- COTA (Free with BuckID)cota.com
- OSU Student Healthstudenthealth.osu.edu
- OSU Off-Campus Living Guideoffcampus.osu.edu/resources
Ready to Call Peer on 7th Home?
Schedule your tour today — in person, virtual, or video.
Walk-ins welcome. Tours available Mon–Fri 10am–6pm & Sat 10am–5pm.
Schedule a Tour at peeron7th.com(380) 300-4114 · 50 E 7th Ave, Columbus OH 43201