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There are many different housing alternatives to select from, which is one benefit of studying in London. I’ve been more aware of the variety of elements that go into choosing a place to live since starting university, so if you’re looking for housing soon, here are some things I would suggest taking into account.
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I had a maximum amount that I would be willing to pay each month on housing in mind, as well as an ideal (lower) amount. Knowing your budget for lodging is useful when later weighing possibilities and taking into account other variables. For instance, if you don’t mind sharing a space, you might think about obtaining a twin room to save some money. Alternatively, if you don’t mind traveling a bit further to campus, you might consider staying in a place that is a little further away.
This was a significant factor for me because I wanted to be close to particular locations that I knew I would probably visit frequently. You may also take into account the precise location in addition to how close the lodging is to the school; for example, do you want to be near a certain train line? This is undoubtedly a great method for limiting your housing alternatives if you need to be near a campus or specific amenities.
Make sure you are aware of the contents of your lodging before you arrive. For instance, is there a bed in your accommodations? Is there a chair and a desk? Even a shower curtain, perhaps? Knowing what is included and what is not before you arrive can allow you to plan the rest of your trip without feeling rushed. It’s better to avoid arriving late at night in your new place after a long day of travel only to discover there are no beds available.
Make sure you are aware of your rights and obligations before signing any contracts. Before you can move in, do you need to pay a deposit? If so, how much is it? Do you require a guarantor who will step up and promise to pay your rent if you are unable to? What happens if your plans change and you need to cancel? What would happen, for instance, if you weren’t accepted to your university, couldn’t get a visa, or there were additional travel limitations implemented? Even though these scenarios appear rare, it’s always preferable to be ready and have a plan in place in case anything unforeseen occurs.
It’s crucial to consider whether the area offers grocery stores, vegetable sellers, excellent nearby restaurants, and ATMs, as these are necessary amenities that you will frequently use. Don’t be scared to be picky when selecting student housing because the alternative that meets all of your exacting requirements will guarantee that you feel at home there.
I gave this a lot of thought, especially as a first-year student, and ultimately determined that I wanted to live somewhere that was just sociable enough for me (not too social but also, somewhere that facilitates conversation and meeting new people). Others, though, might prefer to live in communal housing, where residents tend to be much more independent. It’s also important to take into account the size of the accommodation because the number of students who stay there will also affect the social experience.
If you’re a social butterfly, you’ll probably want your lodging to be in the center of the town or city where it’s located. Are there any local pubs, restaurants, or nightclubs? What are they like, if so? If you want a lively social life while attending university, staying informed about what’s happening in your neighborhood is essential. One of the most crucial things to look for when selecting student housing is local research.
Mold has a bad appearance and smell. It can destroy your clothes and furniture, costing you more money. For those who suffer from hay fever, asthma, or other breathing problems, moisture poses a serious health risk. Along with the apparent black mold patches, keep an eye out for peeling wallpaper or paint. A musty odor may also indicate hidden dampness in the walls. The presence of pest infestations can be an issue in older, less expensive housing. Cockroach, fly, slug, mouse, pigeon, and, in some situations, rat infestations are typical. During the viewing, keep an eye out for droppings, slug trails, or pest traps. Don’t be ashamed to peek into cabinets, and pay close attention to kitchen counters and trash can locations. You might share your new home if there are creaking sounds coming from the attic.
Make sure to identify your contact person before or as soon as you get at your home. Keep their phone number and email address in your phone’s contacts, and find out what kind of assistance they can provide. Who do you call, for instance, if there is a water leak? What steps should you take to resolve this if your boiler or cooker breaks? It’s also a good idea to be aware of who to contact if you have any other practical questions about your accommodations.