Knock! Knock! The time flies when you live in on-campus student accommodation. Since you are here, we know you are stepping out of on-campus housing. Well, the decision to finalize the right place to live comes with numerous aspects.
From location to budget, you have to keep a check on everything. However, while searching for your next home, there are some common mistakes everyone makes. Plus, we also know how overwhelming and daunting it is to find a place to live in a country like the UK. This is why we are back with another necessary blog. As a result, this particular blog will take you through the top mistakes students make when choosing student housing. We will also tell you ways to avoid such common mistakes. So, don’t wait for any more and dive into the process with the right information!
1. Ignoring Location and Proximity to College
The very first common mistake every student makes is not assessing the proximity. Every city comes with thriving, vibrant and peaceful neighborhoods. However, this doesn’t mean you go and live in an area which is far away from your college.
In short, when you choose from different student apartments, check the distance between them. When you live near the campus, you will find a significant difference in your life. Simply put, you minimize commute timing, focus more on studies and extracurricular activities, and explore more social scenes.
For instance, you wake up just 15 minutes before the class. If you are living away, it is obvious you will miss your class. But being close to your campus, you can grab a coffee and make it to your class well in time. Consequently, to avoid this mistake, always ensure the distance and explore nearby student housing.
2. Not Setting Up a Real Budget
The cost of living in a country like the United Kingdom can sometimes be hard on your wallet. Never underestimate the costs associated with student rooms. You might find some hidden fees in the name of utilities, internet, etc. Hence, beyond rent, there are other expenses which shouldn’t come to you as a surprise. Most of the students, especially international students, overlook this aspect and end up having financial trouble.
To simply avoid this, you can set a clear and realistic budget. Make sure to consider all the potential expenses as well as hidden costs. Some of these include:
- Rent of long-term and short-term student accommodation
- Cost of groceries and food.
- Expenses of public transportation.
- Hidden costs like maintenance fees, communal charges and security deposits.
You can track all these expenses by using budgeting applications or excel. Plus, opt for those student housing which aligns with your budget to avoid unnecessary stress.
3. Not Understanding Rent Agreement
You can expect to find long-term and flexible student accommodation which comes with different terms and conditions. While you earn a newfound independence, you often fail to understand the rent agreement. Hence, always make sure to read the lease thoroughly. Some of the essential information to know before signing the lease include:
- Timeline
- Rules on subletting
- Rent Amount
- Penalties
- Dispute resolution
- Extra charges like maintenance, security and more.
You might also not be able to understand the agreement. In this case, it is always better to connect with a professional or landlord. Once you are aware of all the terms and conditions then only sign the agreement.
4. Not Exploring and Inspecting the Student Accommodation
There are plenty of websites showing different images of student rooms. You might find the best pictures online and in reality the place looks exactly different. Once you explore the student housing online, don’t forget to inspect the place physically.
The inspection helps to report damages, if any, beforehand and avoid later consequences. You must inspect appliances, plumbing, floors and more. Also look for signs of water damage, pest infestations and more. You can easily file a complaint with the administration of student accommodation verbally or in writing. This simply helps to avoid any bad consequences.
5. Not Considering Compatibility With Roommates
Roommate dynamics play an essential role in your student life. Many students either choose roommates hastily or focus only on friendship. This is where most of the students go wrong. In short, always choose compatibility over convenience. You can check compatibility in terms of expectations, schedules, habits and more. So, always have an open discussion before making a decision and talk about everything like study habits, financial aspects, social scenes and more. Also, set clear expectations and boundaries upfront to prevent later conflicts.
Top Tips to Choose Student Accommodation
Before you make your final decision, here are some top tips when choosing student housing:
- Check and research online ratings.
- Connect with seniors to get a better idea about the place.
- Always plan early as there is a huge demand in the market.
- Avoid last-minute decisions as it might turn into an expensive affair.
- Know your preferences and needs.
Finding the right place to live is a significant decision in a student’s life which requires careful planning and consideration. So, avoid all the common mistakes and ensure a smoother student life in a beautiful student accommodation. And, always remember that housing isn’t just about a place, it’s a place where you grow, learn and unforgettable memories!
