More money is being spent on student accommodation, in particular the purpose-built student accommodation.
These are buildings designed specifically for students. There are many landlords and letting agents around the university area.
How do you know which student accommodation is right for you?
As a student, what are your wants and needs?
To me, the most important thing is to understand what you desire from your accommodation. While this may change, it is essential to understand the criteria.
The number of beds
Area
Prices
Includes all bills
Add-ons
Beds – Most agents and landlords prefer houses to be occupied by a small group because they know that they will benefit from it.
You choose the location. Is it determined by price? Or commute time? It’s your choice!
Price – How much can you afford?
Bills included – You may pay more, but it is less work and you won’t be fighting with your housemates.
Extras: In student accommodation you can access gyms and cinemas as well as free breakfasts. Which one do you prefer?
Finding Student Loughborough University Accommodation
Save all properties, houses, and studios you find that you like and start looking.
To me, too many viewings is not a bad thing. While it’s fine to view the same house multiple times, sometimes viewing it twice or three times is better.
It is not uncommon for you to spend 15 minutes at a home, then decide you like it. You book it, and then you don’t get to see it again until your move-in.
Going to several viewings of various properties will give you an idea of what a great student house looks and feels like. Also, you will be able build a picture of what a good agent or landlord does and how they act.
While it may seem difficult at first, it will become easier over time. It will take you longer to find the perfect house than you would if you had to do it all at once.
Viewings: What You Can Do!
The best way to find the right student accommodation is to go see it. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision when looking at student accommodation.
Ask questions – there’s no such thing as stupid questions. In the viewing area, you can ask any questions.
You should check all bedrooms.
It is important to read and understand the tenancy agreement before you ask any questions.
Examine the quality of the house and how clean it is. Finally, check how well maintained it seems to be.
You can take photos and videos if possible. This way, you can recall it if necessary.
How to choose the right Letting Agent/Landlord for a Student
You might end up with several similar properties, but they are with different landlords and letting agents. How can you tell which one is best for you?
My view is that there are certain key points that must be consistent and others which should be optional.
Communication – It doesn’t have to be fancy with all the singing and dancing but as long they are communicating. You can use WhatsApp, email or portals.
Maintenance – While there are many priorities to repairs, all of them still need to get done.
A well-designed, functional, and high quality property – This is what landlords and tenants should strive for.
Systems and Processes: No nonsense. Simple and easy to comprehend. Although there are rules regarding deposits, these will give you an idea of the treatment students receive.
Experience – What are their experiences for students who book with them. You don’t necessarily have to give away freebies every week. It can also be doing simple things very well. But what experience are they giving students and how much effort do they put into it?
Storage – The minimum storage you need is a desk and chair. You will need somewhere to hang clothes, such as a wardrobe or clothes rail. But people have different preferences. Draws are not necessary for your space.
Inspections – Students may find them annoying but it means that the agent and landlord are serious about inspecting properties and are looking for any damage or repairs. This is a positive sign.
If you’re staying in student accommodation that is purpose-built, it’s important to examine the areas. Do they have a purpose?
You should also check the space and storage. Some rooms are small, so you may not have many places to store your belongings.
It is possible to add some extras or nice things.
Freebies: While they are not necessary, they can be a turning point for many students. But please consider the value of these freebies and not what you get for nothing. This includes cashback.
What could put you off a house
Apart from listing the best points, I thought it might be a good idea to list some things that might encourage you to conduct more research on whether this is a good option.
Things that I am concerned about:
They offer really high incentives. Although they don’t want to be too generous, they want students to have rooms. A high price would force me to dig deeper.
Bad and consistent press – You can’t please everyone, so if you find a lot negative information about housing quality, do more research.
Quality – If the house isn’t clean, has broken furniture or looks tired when you enter it, I would recommend that you look at a few more homes.
You’ll also be able pick up on how the landlord or agent is acting. They are usually very friendly and approachable. Do not be pushed to book by them. But they don’t lie when saying they move quickly.
