Free tools for new grads to set a rent budget, avoid scams, check your first lease and set up roommates
What you can do here
Free, private, no sign-up
Landlords often want about 40× the rent in yearly income. A healthy budget keeps rent under 30% of pay.
Enter your salary and we show both numbers: what you can comfortably afford and what landlords will approve.
Scammers target people relocating: no tour, lots of urgency, and a request to wire money.
Paste the listing or message and we point out the scam warning signs.
Pay attention to early termination fees, in case the job doesn't work out.
Add your lease and we highlight risky clauses in plain English. Then check the real monthly cost with fees.
Your first month should be prorated, and the split should be agreed before anyone moves in.
Work out the partial first month, split rent fairly, and put house rules in a roommate agreement.
Tools get you organized. These folks can advise you
A common rule is under 30% of gross pay. Many landlords screen for about 40× the monthly rent in yearly income. The calculator shows both.
Use a verifiable manager, get a live video tour you control or send a friend, read the lease first, and pay in a traceable way.
Independent and free. Not affiliated with any university career center. Not legal or financial advice. Last reviewed September 2026. Run a group for these renters and want something changed? Tell us
Educational information, not legal advice - figures are general and laws change. How we keep this accurate & where to verify → · Spot an error? Tell us →