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Top tips for choosing the perfect student property
Whether you’re a first-time fresher or a third-year veteran, sooner or later you’ll have to tackle the difficult subject of picking the perfect student flat. Unfortunately, this can be a tough task due to the over-saturation of rubbish studios and dingy house-shares that litter student listings. The ideal housing depends on your means and your social situation.
Do you like your space? Avoid house-shares and communal living.
Do you love socialising? Dive into halls and big shared accommodation.
Follow the tips below when you’re looking around to ensure you live somewhere you love.
Ensure you’ve got the funds
It can be tempting to dive on the nicest property you view, but you need to work out exactly how much you’ve got in your budget. Otherwise, you’ll end up living on noodles and tap-water in your shiny new flat. Calculate the deposit and first month’s rent. If sharing, you all need to be comfortable with the amounts you’re paying and everyone should agree to avoid any arguments/fallout. Ensure you all have each other’s details and home addresses in case one of you drops out – that way you can contact their parents to pay rent.
Pick your location
nightlife. If you’re a homebody, a quiet suburb with good transport links. Don’t opt for a property that makes travelling to campus a hassle or you’ll end up resenting it more than you already do at 9am.
Comb over the flat for any problems
Mould/RisingDamp:
Two of the biggest problems in old properties, mould and damp can really damage property as well as affect your health. Look for wet-looking wallpaper, dark blotches on walls and mouldy surfaces hidden behind cupboards.
Damage to the property
Double-check all furniture and fittings. If anything is broken or in bad condition, take photos and note it down. Alert the landlord and demand it’s fixed or replaced. You don’t want them to mess you around.
