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MAA Howell Commons: A Student Housing Option in Columbia

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What MAA Howell Commons offers

MAA Howell Commons is a student housing community located in Columbia, designed to serve students attending the University of South Carolina and other local institutions. The property offers furnished apartments with floor plans ranging from studios to four-bedroom units, along with amenities like a fitness center, study spaces, and community areas. The complex sits near campus and local transit routes, making it accessible for students without personal transportation.

The community is managed by MAA (Mid-America Apartment Communities), a national property management company that operates student housing across multiple states. Howell Commons specifically caters to the student rental market, with lease terms and pricing structured around academic calendars rather than traditional 12-month residential leases.

Key Takeaways

  • MAA Howell Commons offers furnished apartments in multiple floor plans, from studios to four-bedroom units, located near the University of South Carolina campus.
  • The property includes amenities such as a fitness center, study lounges, and community gathering spaces designed for student living.
  • Lease terms typically align with the academic year rather than standard calendar years, though specific terms vary by unit and availability.
  • You can contact the leasing office directly or visit the property to tour units and learn about current pricing and move-in requirements.

Floor plans and unit types

Howell Commons offers a range of unit sizes to accommodate different housing needs and budgets. Studio apartments provide a compact option for individual students, while one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units serve groups of roommates or students seeking more space. Each unit comes furnished, meaning beds, desks, and common living furniture are included in the lease.

The furnished approach eliminates the need to purchase or transport furniture, which is particularly useful for students relocating to Columbia for the academic year. Unit layouts vary, so touring the property or reviewing floor plan details through the leasing office will show you the specific configuration and square footage of each option.

Amenities and community features

Beyond individual apartments, Howell Commons provides shared spaces designed for student life. A fitness center allows residents to exercise on-site, while study lounges offer quiet areas for coursework and group projects. Community rooms and gathering spaces host resident events and provide places to socialize outside your apartment.

These amenities are included as part of your lease and are available to all residents. The property also typically offers package receiving services and may provide parking options, though specific details about parking availability and any associated costs should be confirmed directly with the leasing office.

Location and campus access

Howell Commons sits in Columbia with proximity to the University of South Carolina's main campus and local neighborhoods. The location is designed to be walkable or accessible via campus shuttle services and public transit, reducing the need for a personal vehicle. Students can verify current transit routes and travel times by checking the COMET (Columbia's public transit system) website or asking the leasing office about shuttle schedules.

The surrounding area includes retail, dining, and entertainment options typical of a college town, so you can access services and social activities without traveling far from the property.

Lease terms and academic year structure

Unlike traditional apartments that operate on 12-month leases, student housing communities like Howell Commons often structure leases around the academic calendar. This means lease terms may run from August to May or follow a similar academic year schedule, with the option to renew for the following academic year. Some residents may also find summer housing options available, though availability and pricing differ from the standard academic year.

Specific lease lengths, move-in dates, and renewal options vary by unit and the current leasing calendar. The leasing office can explain the exact terms available when you inquire about a particular floor plan or move-in date.

How to learn more and schedule a tour

To explore Howell Commons as a housing option, contact the leasing office directly by phone or visit the property in person. The leasing team can answer questions about current availability, pricing, lease terms, and any move-in requirements such as deposits or documentation. Many student housing communities also maintain websites or social media pages with photos, virtual tours, and frequently updated information about specials or availability.

Visiting in person allows you to see the units, amenities, and neighborhood firsthand. If you are coordinating housing for an upcoming semester, reaching out early in the leasing season (typically spring for fall move-ins) gives you the widest selection of available units and floor plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a co-signer to lease an apartment at Howell Commons?

Co-signer requirements vary by property and individual circumstances. Contact the leasing office to learn about their specific policies. Many student housing communities do require a co-signer, often a parent or guardian, particularly for first-time renters or those without established credit history.

Can I break my lease early if I need to move out before the lease ends?

Early lease termination policies differ by property and lease agreement. Some communities offer options like finding a replacement tenant or paying an early termination fee. Ask the leasing office about their specific policy and any options available if your circumstances change during your lease term.

Are utilities included in the rent, or do I pay them separately?

Utility coverage varies by unit and lease type. Some apartments include certain utilities (like water or trash), while others require residents to pay for electric, internet, or other services separately. The leasing office will clarify which utilities are included in your specific lease and what you are responsible for paying.

Is there a waiting list if the units I want are currently full?

Many student housing communities maintain waiting lists for popular floor plans or move-in dates. Contact the leasing office to ask about current availability and whether you can be added to a list for your preferred unit type or timing.

What happens to my lease if I graduate before the lease ends?

Graduation and lease end dates do not always align. Discuss your graduation timeline with the leasing office when signing your lease. Some communities offer flexibility for graduating residents, while others may require you to fulfill the full lease term or find a replacement tenant.