USF Single Family Student Rental… Good Or Bad Idea?

[Josh Scurlock]

     I am considering buying a 3-4 bed, 2-4 bath single family home rental near the University Of South Florida in cash if I can find a deal where the numbers make sense. I am thinking about make it a student rental then live in one room while renting out the rest. 

It seems like most of the living options on campus you would be with roommates anyways but i'm not sure if this is something there would be demand for. I am attracted to the higher possible ROI and can do majority of the cleaning and maintenance/repairs myself so I don't mind the higher turnover. Only thing I am worried about is the possible higher vacancy rate as i'm not sure if this is something that's common especially at USF. I am a 22 year old man so i'm not sure what type of effect this will have on trying to find renters.

     Does anyone with experience with college rentals or any similar type of rental have any insight on whether there is high demand for this type of housing at USF? Also if you have any valuable knowledge on the topic i’d appreciate any advice.