If you are finally accepted by your desired university, it is very likely that you will be studying away from home. In such cases, you would need to find housing for the duration of your university stay.
There are numerous different types of accommodations from which to choose, as well as numerous factors to consider when choosing a place to stay.
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Choose between student housing and private accommodation
You could either stay in the student halls at your university or in a private home. If this is your first year, you should try to get into the student halls because you will meet other students who are in the same situation as you – new and away from home.
However, if you’re confident enough, you could look elsewhere and most likely find a good home to rent, and if you know other students, you could even share the space.
Choose your roommates wisely
Even if you have a lot of friends at university, staying with them is a completely different story. If you have different interests, it can cause a lot of problems and even ruin your friendship. As a result, before asking someone to be your roommate, be open with them and tell them what you do at home – you don’t want to end up fighting over the TV!
Choose a suitable location
Location is another important factor to consider when selecting student accommodation. You must choose a location that is close to the university while also maintaining a clean and quiet environment.
Not only that, but if possible, you should try to find a place that is close to both your university and the local market so that you can go out and buy things whenever you want.
How is the landlord?
Apart from the price, most people are only concerned with the location and quality of the room. However, they frequently fail to inquire about their landlord from others. You wouldn’t want to live in a room that was owned by someone who would eat your head every day and never let you live in peace.
You could also contact your university, as they may have a list of student accommodations that pass students have informed them about. This will undoubtedly assist you in locating the ideal home away from home.
Things to avoid when looking for student housing
Because you may be living in your student housing for at least a year, you want to make sure you get a good deal. Because this will most likely be your first time away from home, you want the transition to be as smooth as possible. Some obvious things will turn you off right away: dirty interiors or exteriors, and an unpleasant odour. However, there are numerous other minor issues that could cause problems. Make a list of everything you want to know about the property and the contract before you start looking.
You will frequently be told what the owner or agency wants you to know rather than what is important to you. It makes no difference whether you are renting with friends or moving in with strangers. You want your stay to be a comfortable one. Once you’ve decided on a viewing location, make an appointment and bring your camera. There may be minor issues that you are willing to live with but are not expected to pay for. Dented floor boards may not prevent you from moving in, but you do not want to be held responsible for the damage. The following are major issues to be aware of:
1. Dampness: This can make you sick and ruin your possessions. Look for clues in the room you’ve been shown.
2. Wildlife: The only wildlife you want to see is in the student bar, so keep an eye out for mice or fleas. Keep an ear out for noises that could indicate the presence of something. Even birds in the attic can be aggravating.
3. Location: Be realistic and choose a location where you can afford to live and fit in. If you see rooms in a very quiet area and there are several of you looking, you may find that if you want to have late-night fun, you will soon have problems with the neighbours. You should also consider public transportation, or you may find yourself isolated or paying a fortune in taxis.
4. Security: Look for a burglar alarm as well as good locks on the doors and windows. Few areas with a high concentration of students will be crime-free, as they tend to be in large cities, and thieves believe students have the most up-to-date electronics. Examine the street lighting and the condition of the neighbouring houses.
5. Inclusions: Double-check that what you see is what you can use. You don’t want to discover that one of your housemates has brought a microwave just for them, while the hoover or iron is for everyone. Check that your room has enough plugs for what you’ll be plugging in.
Finally, make sure you understand what is included in the price. You don’t want to discover that you owe money for gas and electricity that you thought were included.
