It’s late January. That means we are deep into the period where students are looking for accommodation for next year. While it’s easy to get caught up in “FOMO” and signing immediately, there is wisdom in taking the time to make the right decision. According to various surveys:
- 12% of students (that’s around 1 in every 8) sign on the dotted line for the first student accommodation property they view
- Subsequently, 33% (that’s around 1/3) later feel that the decision they made on which student property to rent was poor value for money
So how do you take your time while ensuring you don’t miss out on the best?
Book Multiple Viewings Close Together
The Pads for Students website makes it easy to see available student accommodation in your area. We provide a simple but thorough list for students to search, making it easier to contact multiple properties at once. We strongly recommend that you contact 3 or 4 property owners at the same time. This removes the risk of feeling pressured into making a rush decision when you have an appointment to view another. Some property owners rely on the lack of experience of students and make them feel that if you don’t decide right now, you will miss out to the next group. Even if you miss out on a favoured property, you will have several more to view within a day or two.
Devise a List of Tiered Requirements
By “tiered requirements” we mean a list of things that the property must have for the group, things that would be nice to have, and things that things that would mean automatic rejection. This way, if the property is missing a key or vital ingredient, everybody can pull together in saying “no”. It’s also a good idea for everyone to view a property together and ensure there is a strong personality unwilling to be pressured or bullied into taking a property that is unsuitable. When one person agrees, it’s common for everyone to fall into line. When you have a list, it’s easier to stick to it, and to your guns.
Discuss Pros and Cons
Pads for Students realise that student tenants are generally unfussy. But before signing on the dotted line with any property owner, it’s important to consider all the pros and cons of the property after the viewing and with a clear head. Is it close to campus? If not, does it have great transport links? Two bathrooms will be a bonus for five adults living together, for example. Again, don’t feel rushed into deciding on a student let property. If you get together with the friends you intend to move in with and list your pros and cons, you’re likely to find common ground and choose the property that is collectively the best value for money.