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Incoming 1L to U of Utah here. Planning move to SLC in August, and have an appointment with a leasing agent on August 3. Was thinking of actually postponing move until the following week, but agent just warned me that housing can be scarce if I wait until, say, August 11, which still gives me a few days to get settled before orientation. According to the leasing agent, some U of U students have already moved in downtown because they know how the housing situation goes around campus.

In the meantime, I've actually found another apt that I can sign off on now, but it would have to be based on photos e-mailed to me, because I'm currently out of state. I'd ideally like to see the place before I sign off on a year's lease, but I'm afraid all the more affordable ($400-$500 range) studios will be gobbled up by mid-August.

Can anyone speak of the housing situation in downtown SLC? Is it worth getting a cheaper apt now that I haven't personally visited for fears that one won't be available come mid-August? I'm not at all picky about the size of the place, or even the aesthetics, as long as it's commutable to campus via public transit (will be going sans car) and affordable, as I prefer to live alone. Oh, and I'd ideally like a furnished place, but not having much luck finding that.

Hi,
I currently live by the Capitol. I myself got a place without looking at it because I was moving from Sacramento. I don't advise that. People are not the most honest anywhere anymore. SLC should not be an exception to the rule. Which leasing agent are you using. Where are you moving from?

Below is my friend's response to your question, she actually went to undergrad at the UofU and understands the area:

well, if they specifically want a studio I guess that COULD be the case. But, When I moved here, I lived pretty far from campus (over by the olive garden) and was still able to easily take the bus to school at the U. I had no car either. In my experience, there are plenty of rentals, and the bus system is decent enough that they could probably get to school pretty easily even if they aren't right next to campus.

The agent isn't telling you the whole truth. It may be harder for them to get you in somewhere as I'm sure they work more closely with the larger apartment complexes, those might go quick as the start of school nears.
I live 5 blocks from the law school in an area with tons of basement/studio type apartments rented out by owners. These take a little more leg work to find but can be a better deal and be closer to school in some cases.
By the way I think you will be surprised at how huge an area you can choose from and still have a minimal commute/bus/bike/train ride to school.