How to Choose Student Accommodation
How to Choose Student Accommodation
Finding somewhere to live as a student can be daunting as there are so many different factors to consider. How much rent should you be paying? Where do you want to live? How many people do you want to live with?
If you’re wondering how to choose student accommodation, the best way is to be organised and follow a step-by-step process. We’ve outlined a few key things to consider when making your decision.
Set a budget
Your budget is probably the best place to start, as this will decide the sort of accommodation you will be looking at. While we’d all quite like a bit of luxury, sometimes the more expensive student accommodation just isn’t worth it if you have no money left over!
Your budget will also allow you to think more about how many people you can live with. Shared accommodation is often much cheaper than having a studio to yourself, but that will depend on your budget and your personal preference.
Make a list of things you require
Staying with the idea of personal preference, it’s a good plan to make a list of all the things you need (and want) from your student accommodation.
This can range from the number of bathrooms and facilities such as the washing machine, through to the style and size you want. You might have to make some compromises along the way, but it’s good to have an idea of the type of accommodation you are looking for so that you can narrow your search down.
Think about the ideal location
Location is a key deciding factor when it comes to student accommodation. In an ideal world, you’d probably be located as close to your university buildings as possible, but this might not work out with your budget.
This will vary between university towns and cities but in London, for example, the public transport systems are pretty fast and efficient. This means you don’t have to live directly where you study, so long as you work out a manageable route to and from your lectures.
It’s best not to live too far away from your university if the transport isn’t so good as you may end up sacrificing a lot of your time! It’s all about balance and weighing up your options.
Get quotes from different accommodation providers
Another important thing to do is consider a wide variety of options, rather than just going for the first one you see. Get quotes from different providers and weigh up the pros and cons of each option against the price. This will help you make a sensible decision, rather than a rushed one.
Get advice from other students
Another great resource you can use when making your accommodation decisions is the older students who have already been through the process. They can help guide you on the typical cost of rent, the quality you should expect, and maybe any particular areas you should avoid.
In some cases, they may even be living in student accommodation that they can recommend to you!
Choosing student accommodation doesn’t have to be stressful if you take a careful, considered approach. Hopefully, these steps will help you find your new university home!
If you have any questions about our student accommodation options in London, please do get in touch with us.