Keep mind that a lot (not all) leases tend to start on the 1st of the month. Arriving in the first week could be tough. Aim for the last week of the month (Spetmeber is good here) if possible.
Also, I second the idea that working at least a little is worth while. Hook ups, connections, etc more than make up for the time spent working.
I started in a ski shop in the Village 4 days a week. I could still ski on my lunch break and got discounted pass and gear and insider info on skiing and bars plus free food and beer in exchange for tune ups. Also, the friends I made at the shop are a big part of why I still live here.