<p>My son is a 1st year and its October and already they feel the push to commit to housing for next year. I have read the articles in the school newspaper about how the student government is trying to stop the early lease signing. As some have said it is too early for a 1st year to even know who their friends will end up being this year let alone to commit to roommates for next year. With that being said, I would like to ask current students or graduates if they have any housing recommendations. Any feedback on apartments vs. single houses. What do you think of the JPA area? Also, what happens when someone decides they want to go overseas for a semester? How is that worked out with housing? Does anyone have any suggestions on how you coordinate paying rent with one check when there are 6 room mates?</p>
<p>Read this thread: <a href="http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-virginia/573999-2nd-year-housing.html%5B/url%5D">http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-virginia/573999-2nd-year-housing.html</a></p>
<p>My S went through the October/November thing. He felt like he needed to commit to something so that he wasn't left out. After about 2 weeks of looking around with his friends, they decided rather than rush into the off-Grounds housing, they'd opt for Lambeth. It's getting a little "dated", but they're refurbishing the units slowly. Theirs wasn't re-done yet, but it worked for 4 guys who aren't into cooking or cleaning much. The location is good---especially for John Paul Jones Arena events (basketball games!) It seemed to be mostly 2nd year kids there. This year (3rd year) he's off-Grounds at JPA in a great 4-bedroom. They had to commit early, but they were more ready to make the commitment last year rather than as 1st years. The location is terrific, and they're changing units but staying in the same building for next year.</p>