How Not to Rush Your Last Minute Student Accommodation Decision

We’re rapidly approaching the end of June. If your exams are not already finished, they soon will be. Do you have accommodation for next year organised yet? If not, you’re likely to be one of the last remaining stragglers. Of course, it’s not too late. Clearing won’t open for another month and they’ll be hastily looking for accommodation too. There is no need to rush but you do need to be mindful of the need to get accommodation sorted ASAP. Here is how you avoid making the wrong decision.

What’s Your Budget?

This late in the game, it’s too easy to make a snap decision while not considering the potential consequences later. Before you even begin your search, you should look at what you can actually afford. If you were in halls this year, it’s likely your rent covered full catering facilities. That won’t be the case next year. Work out your income (and savings) and budget accordingly. That way, as you begin your last minute search, you won’t be tempted to overstretch.

House Share vs Room

The biggest decision you need to make (and the first) is whether you want to round up some friends and live in a student HMO or whether you’d prefer to rent a room with a family. Both have their advantages. Outgoing students might prefer the HMO while introverts and postgraduates might prefer the sedate atmosphere of renting a room from a local. That’s not to say HMOs are unsuitable for MA/MSc and PhD students, they work when all students are on postgrad courses.

Location is King

You may find your options limited this late on, but you should always pay attention to location – especially with cheaper properties. Landlords often reduce prices on property farther away from campus or with fewer transport links. If location is important to you (either getting to campus or public transport links to the outside) you should pay attention to the local amenities – supermarkets, buses, access to main roads, railways etc. This is doubly important if you don’t have a car.

Check the Fine Detail

It’s too easy to get caught up in the relief of finally pinning down student accommodation for next year. You should never let your guard down. Reading the contract and checking the fine print should be a priority before you sign. Check the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating; if you haven’t been given this, ask for it. It will be a guide to how much you can expect to pay for your utilities – vital in winter. Finally, make sure the gas boiler certificate is up to date and the landlord has a license.