Finding student digs isn’t the most enjoyable experience in the world – it’s certainly something I don’t miss!
But, while it is a hassle, it has to be done. And, I found that being super organised definitely helped me along the way.
The earlier you look, the more choice you’ll have. Leave it too late and you might just end up living in a slum, and nobody wants that…
But, there are a few things you need to consider before you rush in and sign anything. Here are a few!
Consider who to live with
Who you live with has a massive impact on your uni experience. You probably chose who you wanted to live with half way through the year, but, what you also need to consider is whether the people you want to live with want to live with each other. Also, you need reliable housemates – AKA friends who will actually pay their bills, tidy their mess and not be a general liability…
Talk to each other
So you’re on the hunt for the perfect student pad, what you need to do now is talk about what each of you is looking for! Do you need car parking spaces? Do you all want double bedrooms? Who’s getting the bigger room? Does this person have to pay more rent? There really is a lot to talk about, so get the conversations in early to prevent arguments later. 3 cars with 2 parking spots is a prime culprit for fall outs!
Location
When choosing where to live, you’ll probably look at places close to the uni. 90% of students feel that when choosing accommodation, proximity is important. There will no doubt be a specific student area where students tend to flee when they move out of halls. So, go and have a look around it, check out the area and available transport links.
Talk to the current tenants
There’s no better way to find out what a house is truly like than by talking to students who live there! Why not ask them about their experience in the home? Hopefully they’ll give you honest feedback on how they’ve found it, including their experience with the landlord/letting agents, bills and maintenance issues.
Bills Bills Bills, get them sorted ASAP!
Sorting bills is probably the most stressful job you will have with your housemates. There’s always the responsible one that gets lumped with setting stuff up – and the one who can’t keep up with payments! This can cause arguments and makes living together not so enjoyable. So what can you do?
Glide are a student utilities provider who sort the bills out for you, and give each member of your house one monthly payment! Going with us might just prevent a few fall outs, and, that stress you do not need beside your coursework!
There’s nothing more important than broadband…right?
Let’s face it, internet connection is probably top of your uni to-do list! With all that studying and Netflix-ing you have to do it is essential! Not sorted yours yet?
When you first move, you’ll receive a tonne of paperwork that you probably haven’t got a clue about. So make sure give your parents a shout to go through everything with you in detail, and so you don’t miss anything!
