It is a fall ritual - the search for off-campus housing.

To assist students in the quest for off-campus housing, Ohio University Student Senate will hold two housing forums, Student Senate President Darien Moss said.

The forums are open to all students who want to learn about the city's services and the responsibilities that go along with living in Athens.

The first meeting will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. tonight in Boyd Hall. Another will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct.6 on New South.

Most students start looking for housing in September and October. But by December, choices are limited, said Kate Sanders of Pro-Rental.

Before signing a lease, there are many different options for students to consider, including proximity to uptown, parking availability, quiet areas, pet policies, washer and dryer facilities and the price, she said.

While some students have already signed their leases, others have not even started the search.

"Living in a house with a lot of problems and a landlord that doesn't care or want to help worries me," said junior Terra Robinette. "I have heard horror stories that make me apprehensive."

Students who wish to live off-campus must have at least 90 credit hours, be over 21 years old or have been a student for six full quarters, said Clerical Specialist for Housing Betty Harmon.

Students have until May 1 to decide if they do not want to live in the residence halls, without forfeiting the $100 security deposit, she said.

Although this is the fourth week of school, some students are already frustrated with the process of finding off-campus housing.

"My friends and I started looking the first week of school and immediately had problems," junior Aubrey Alexander said.

With everything else that goes on in the beginning of the quarter, she said looking for a house for the next year is a frustrating task.

"There should be some type of limit set on when you can sign leases," she said. "It's hard for both the current renters and the people looking."

Junior Carolyn Stanson said she is pleased with her current living conditions and already has decided to live there again next year.

She said she looked for a house that was close to campus and had big kitchen, family room and washer and dryer.

"The only rules in my lease are no pets and no parking on the lawns," she said.