How researchers and fellows should match a Memphis lease to an appointment length, a cohort start date and an international arrival.
Housing Guide for St. Jude Researchers and Fellows
Matching a Memphis lease to an appointment length, a program start date and an international move.
Research appointments come with something most renters do not have: a known end date. That should shape the lease from the beginning.
Match the lease to the appointment
A one-year fellowship and a standard twelve-month lease sound compatible until the dates are compared. Appointments rarely start on the first of a month. Ask us about term and start-date flexibility before you apply, so the two line up rather than overlapping awkwardly at the end.
Cohort start dates
Program cohorts often begin together, which means a group of people are searching the same fortnight. Starting earlier than feels necessary is the single most useful thing you can do.
Arriving from another country
- Expect questions about US rental history and credit — raise it early
- Have your appointment letter and immigration documentation ready
- Plan for the gap between landing and your first pay date
- Consider having a colleague view the unit if you cannot
- Ask what is needed if a guarantor or additional documentation is requested
Arriving for a fellowship? Tell us your start date and appointment length.
Frequently asked questions
Can a colleague tour on my behalf?
Yes, and it is common. We can also provide a video walkthrough of the specific unit.
I have no US credit history. Is that fatal?
Not automatically. Tell us before applying so we can explain what the property requires. Approval is never guaranteed.
Should I sign before I arrive?
If you need somewhere on day one, usually yes. The remote process is designed for it.
Related guides
St. Jude relocation
International researchers
Medical District
Remote leasing
Ask Lia
Lia is ELM Property Management’s leasing assistant. If your appointment has a defined length, tell us and we will match a term to it. Send your question through our contact page, email info@elmpropertymanagement.com, or call 901-350-5502, and a member of our team will follow up.
Relocating for a research appointment?
Send your start date and appointment length and we will tell you what fits.
ELM Property Management is an independent property management company and is not affiliated with any employer, hospital, university, government agency, or contractor referenced on this page.