SMART Housing in West Campus

SMART Housing

What is SMART Housing?

The City of Austin created the Safe, Mixed-Income, Accessible, Reasonably Priced, Transit-Oriented (SMART) housing program to help make rent costs more affordable. That name is a bit of a mouthful, which is why you’ll hear it more commonly referred to as SMART housing.

SMART housing was designed to help students who are receiving need-based financial aid or are working to independently pay for college and living costs. If you qualify, some apartments offer a lower rent price in certain rooms.

Why do UT students choose SMART Housing?

At The Sinclair, we understand that your college years are not just about academics; they are about experiences, friendships, and memories. That’s why we embrace the SMART Housing initiative, which ensures you can live in a vibrant community close to campus without breaking the bank.

With easy access to classes, modern amenities, and a lively atmosphere, our residents enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Plus, residing in West Campus means you’re always at the heart of Austin’s energy, letting you focus on what truly matters – making the most of your college journey while living in a beautiful space designed just for you.

How do I qualify for SMART Housing?

There are two ways you can qualify for SMART housing:

1. Need-Based Financial Aid
2. Low-to-moderate Income Requirement

The first way to qualify for SMART housing is if you receive any need-based financial aid. This form of qualification is fairly simple; if you check your UT Direct CASH page, you can view a list of any financial aid that you have received. If any of the aid on your personal list matches one that appears on the approved need-based financial aid list, regardless of the amount, you qualify! The second way to qualify for SMART housing is if you fall within the low-to-moderate income bracket. In most cases, this means if you demonstrate that the income of the person paying for your apartment is between 50% and 80% of the Austin area’s median income, you will qualify for SMART housing.

Which floor plans are SMART Housing offered in?

We currently offer SMART housing in our D1 floor plan only.

Other FAQs

What are rental installments? Why is my rent not prorated?

A rental installment is a payment made as part of a series of payments. To simplify the billing process, the entire sum of the housing contract is divided into EQUAL installments. Instead of reducing the first installment and increasing the remaining installments, all installments are equal. These installments are factored into the start and end dates of the lease, including proration.

What does Individual Leasing mean?

Each resident signs their own lease for their specific bedroom. So, if a roommate moves out, the other residents are not responsible for that person’s rent. Please note that common areas are a shared space.

How do I pay my rent and when is it due?

Rent is due the first of each month and may be paid online by ACH, debit or credit card through the resident portal. NO CASH ACCEPTED. Convenience fees may be charged for online payments. Late fees vary by property. Refer to your Housing Contract for more information.

What if I need something repaired in my apartment?

Our onsite, professional maintenance team would be happy to help you. We will need some details so be prepared to provide specifics with your requests. You may submit a service request through the online resident portal.

For Emergency Requests: A maintenance team member is on call 24/7 for emergency maintenance needs (i.e. door/window lock issues, major leaks, plumbing, no heat or AC during weather extremes, refrigerator not cooling, no electricity/gas/water, etc.). Please CALL the office at any time. If after business hours, an operator will assist you.

What should I bring to my new apartment?

While the furniture and appliances are included, below is a guide to help you with the personal belongings that you will need to provide:

COMMON AREA : Electronics and corresponding cords/adapters, décor, trash can, trash bags, pots and pans, plates, cups, eating/serving utensils, coffee maker. Cleaning/disinfecting supplies, dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, etc.

BEDROOM : Linens, pillows, mattress pad, towels, toiletries, shower hooks and curtain, trash can, décor, electronics and corresponding cords/adapters, and anything else that makes you feel at home.

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