VT Off-Campus Housing Fair connects students and landlords
Virginia Tech students gathered at the annual Off-Campus Housing Fair to meet local housing representatives, explore rental options, and learn more about living in Blacksburg.
Blacksburg, VA, Oct. 29 - Fairgoers enter Squires Commonwealth Ballroom, where a loop of representatives from potential off-campus housing options awaits.
Blacksburg, VA; Oct. 29 - The Smith's Landing apartment building's table, covered in goodies for fairgoers. Photo: Brendan Robertson/Andrew Rivera
Blacksburg, VA; Oct. 29 - Three representatives from BREXX, a Blacksburg apartment complex, handed out free Red Bulls to attendees. Photo: Brendan Robertson/Andrew Rivera
Blacksburg, VA; Oct. 29 - A map displaying the zoning and occupancy rules for different sections in the town of Blacksburg. Photo: Brendan Robertson/Andrew Rivera
Blacksburg, VA; Oct. 29 - The Smith's Landing apartment building's table, covered in goodies for fairgoers. Photo: Brendan Robertson/Andrew Rivera
Brendan Robertson
Andrew Rivera
10/29/2025
BLACKSBURG, Va. — Virginia Tech students attended the annual off-campus housing fair held on Wednesday, Oct 29. The event was designed to connect students with landlords and rental properties throughout Blacksburg. Hosted by the Off-Campus Housing Office, the fair aimed to simplify the often overwhelming search for off-campus housing.
Bri Williams, a student liaison for the office, said the event makes it easier for students to take the first step in finding housing. “This is a great resource for properties to come to the students. So that first step of actually having to go out and talk to people, you’re able to do that here at the fair, which I think is really awesome,” Williams said.
She also encouraged students to remain patient and thoughtful during the process. “Figure out exactly what you like, but do not feel pressured to sign a lease. You’re going to find something. It’s going to be really easy. So just take your time and relax,” Williams added.
The fair featured a wide variety of local landlords and property managers, offering information on rental prices, amenities, and application procedures. Students could ask questions directly, collect brochures, and submit applications on site. This created a more interactive experience than just relying on online listings.
This fair also strengthens connections between Virginia Tech and the local rental community by bringing students and property representatives together in one location. Williams said the event helps students know where to start and allows property owners to efficiently reach potential tenants.
For first-time attendees, the fair served as an important introduction to the process of finding housing in Blacksburg. Williams noted that students often feel overwhelmed by the options. Still, the event allows them to approach the search in a structured way by comparing different properties and learning about them directly from landlords. Students looking for additional off-campus housing resources can visit Virginia Tech Off-Campus Housing or the Blacksburg Apartment Guide.