Date Published 22 July 2022
How to Find Student Housing - The Ultimate Guide
So you've finished your first university year, and now it's time to find somewhere off-campus to live during your second year and beyond. However, finding the right student accommodation requires preparation and knowing the pitfalls you may come across during the process. There are many things to consider, such as will you live alone or with housemates? House or apartment? Is this your first time moving away from home, we have advice for you too.
But don't worry, we've created the ultimate guide to answer the question: 'how to find student housing?' Using this guide's tips and tricks, you'll have a clear understanding of what you need to do and an easier time finding a place to live. After you have read this, check out the student properties we currently have available.
1) Decide if You Will Live with Housemates or Go It Alone
The first decision you need to make is whether or not you want housemates to live with. This will affect everything else from your budget to the type of place you will look for. And it's critical that you choose someone who is compatible with your lifestyle because living with someone is completely different than when we're just hanging out with them.
For instance, would you consider yourself an introvert? Your housemate may be the type that throws parties or small get-togethers. What about sleep schedules? If one of you is a morning person while the other person is a night owl, that could be an area where issues arise.
The key is to ask plenty of questions to ensure everyone involved is on the same page. You might need to ask them about their financial situation, relationship status, and much more.
And then there's also finding your housemates. Of course, if you have friends from halls, clubs, or societies in school, then you can ask one of them. However, there are other options to find someone to live with. You can also search for people using your university's social media channels such as Facebook.
2) Seriously Consider Your Budget
After completing the first step and deciding whether to live alone or not, then it's time to start thinking about your finances and what your budget will be. For this, you'll need to seriously and honestly look at spending habits and determine if it's necessary for you to cut back in some areas to find a place suitable for you.
Also, speak with your parents to figure out if they will be assisting you here or if you'll need to handle all of your living expenses by yourself. You also need to remember that there will be more costs involved aside from just rent. There will be utilities, security deposits, amenities, application fees, and even things like parking costs you need to consider.
Do you have or want a pet? Most places charge extra security deposits for them, and they may also require you to pay a little more in rent and a lot of landlords won't allow them at all.
3) Decide Your Living Preferences
Once you have your budget locked in, now you can begin deciding what type of place will be best for you (and your housemates if you have them). Here are a few questions you need to ask yourself:
● Do you want a house or an apartment? Both have their benefits and drawbacks. For instance, an apartment means you won't have to maintain the lawn and property. It's often more affordable, but you'll have more neighbors to deal with. Whereas with a house, you'll get more space and privacy.
● What location will you live in? Of course, you will want to be near the school for an easy commute, but do you have a job too? It may be beneficial to pick a central location to make things easier for yourself.
● Are there grocery stores, amenities, and other places around? Often overlooked, but don't forget you will need to keep the refrigerator stocked. And you might want to go out to eat sometimes or to go to the gym. Make sure you have as many of the things you need around.
These are just a few questions to help guide you in the process. If you have housemates, they need to ask themselves the same questions as well to ensure you guys find a place where everyone will be happy.
4) Start Looking NOW!
Don't wait until the last minute to start searching. This will put you under undue stress, which may drive you to make the wrong choice. Check out our guide on what to ask when viewing a property, to make sure you make the most of your time. Also, remember there will be other students looking for places as well, and you could lose out on your dream apartment/house if you don't hurry up and get yourself in there before.
5) Enlist the Help of a Real Estate Agency that Specializes in Student Accommodations
We understand how stressful it is looking for a student house. That's why we're here to help. We can help you find places that fit right into your budget, have the amenities you're looking for, and are in the perfect location for you. Let us take the stress out of your search and contact us today– our friendly team of professionals either at our Smithdown road office - or our city center office on Tithebarn Street answer any questions or concerns you have.
