Seventy-seven housing complexes tabled outside of the Reitz Union on Wednesday hoping to attract potential residents with cups, koozies, T-shirts and corn hole.
About 2,000 students stopped by the Spring Housing Fair to pick up freebies and find out about off-campus housing options.
Lauren Ettlinger, assistant director of housing for Student Government, said that although the complexes are not formally allowed to sign leases at the fair, it is a good way for them to get the word out about the rates and amenities they are offering.
“The fair is run by students, for students as a way for them to view all their living options in one place,” Ettlinger said.
Cabana Beach set up a tiki hut and distributed leis, promoting a drawing to win a cruise with the signing of a lease. The Enclave advertised an upcoming pool party to attract future residents. Campus Lodge gave out neon shirts with the words “Gym, Tan, Lodge.”
UF senior Neda Shahoori said she found her current apartment complex, Campus Lodge, at the fair last year.
She said it’s useful to compare housing options all at once rather than visiting complexes individually.
“You can immediately eliminate the places that don’t offer what you are looking for,” she said.
