Everything you’re wondering before you rent
Honest answers to what international students and their parents ask us most. Still stuck? Reach our NYC team directly — it’s always free to ask.
Is this safe and legit?
Is iHousing legit, or is this another rental scam?
iHousing is legit. Every room is in a unit our company operates, you can see it in person or on a live video call before you commit, and you’ll never pay a deposit through this website. Feel free to look our company up — and have your parents check too.
Do I have to pay a deposit or rent through this website?
No. We never collect deposits or rent online. Any payment happens later, directly with our team, after you’ve seen the room and signed a lease.
Can I see the room before I pay anything?
Always. We arrange a free in-person viewing, or a live video tour if you’re still abroad. You’ll never be asked to pay to “hold” a room you haven’t seen.
I’m still in my home country — how do I know the room is real?
Every photo is taken on-site in that exact room, and we’ll walk you through it live on video so you can see it for yourself and ask questions in real time.
How does it work?
How do I contact a landlord or set up a viewing?
Find a room you like and send a contact request. Our team reaches out to arrange an in-person viewing or a live video tour — there’s no broker in between.
What happens after I send a contact request?
You instantly unlock the exact address and direct contact details, and our team follows up to answer questions and set up a viewing. No payment, no obligation.
Why is the exact address hidden until I send a request?
We blur the precise location to protect our students’ privacy and to stop scammers from copying our listings. Send a quick request and the full address unlocks right away.
Is there a broker fee or any cost to use iHousing?
No broker fee, no application fee, and no charge to view a room or ask a question. The rent shown on each listing is the rent you pay.
Can my parents pay my rent from abroad?
Yes. Many of our students’ families handle payment from overseas. We’ll walk you and your parents through the options once you’ve chosen a room.
Roommates & timing
Do I need an account to contact a room?
No. You can send a contact request as a guest. Creating an account is optional — it just lets you save rooms and get roommate matches.
How does roommate matching work?
Take our quick lifestyle quiz and we’ll match you with rooms and roommates that fit your habits, schedule, and preferences.
When should I start looking for the fall or spring semester?
The earlier the better — good rooms near campus go fast. For a September move-in, start in spring or early summer; for January, start in the fall.
Still have questions?
Message our NYC team directly — no pressure, no obligation, and no fee to ask.
Ready to find your room?
Browse verified rooms near your school, or message us and we’ll help you find one.