Finding the right student accommodation plays a crucial role in making the most of your university or college experience; you don’t want your fond memories to involve leaking roofs or loud traffic. Follow these tips to help you find quality student flats in London, catering to many different budgets and tastes.
Benefits
1. Location, Location, Location
The favoured approach is to rent in more central locations near the campus and student social hubs to minimise travel times and costs. Wherever you choose, make sure there are easy and reliable transport links – you don’t want to be late for class!
2. Check out the area
Students often move to a city they do not know well. Research new neighbourhoods thoroughly to find out about local amenities, shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, libraries and leisure facilities. Your student experience is going to be as much about your time outside classes as the time you spend in lectures.
3. Knowledge is power
Use resources that can give you a valuable insight in to everything you need to know. You may not be able to find the information all in one place so look around. In particular make sure you search with the right suppliers to get a realistic picture of what you should expect for your money.
4. Don’t forget about home!
Moving from your parents’ home to your first place is a milestone. Maybe you can’t wait to experience the freedom but at some point you’ll end up missing your family and home comforts. Consider where your family and friends could stay when they visit; on a sofa bed, in a spare room? Are there any good local hotels? How far would you have to travel to take your laundry home?
5. Coming from abroad
If you’re moving from overseas it can be very stressful. Most universities and colleges have specific resources to help international students and help with improving English language. Ask at your campus student welfare office.
6. One size does not fit all
There is no such thing as one-size fits-all ‘student accommodation’. Everyone has different needs when it comes to the accommodation they need to see them through the course. Some like to share with their friends - this might especially suit you if it is your first time away from your parents.
7. Your home, your haven
Equally, you may prefer to have your own flat. This has some advantages – you can control when there is peace and quiet and get a break from the ‘university environment’. Again, check that your journey to campus remains convenient.
8. Your place, your personality
As well as thinking about where you want to live and who you want to live with, you should consider the feel of the place you’d like to live. There is a wide array of architectural styles and features available for student flats in London. You can find loft style living, period places with original features, open plan styles and more traditional homes.
9. Stay flexible
Remember your needs may change throughout your course. The campus or transport services may change, or you may have problems with housemates. Options are never a bad thing.
10. Stay safe, stay secure
Finally, moving to a new city can seem daunting. London is an amazing place to live and study, but it is a big city. Make sure your new place has all the appropriate services, security and insurances.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a new student, or a mature student, finding the right student accommodation can be one of the most important decisions for how the term goes for you. With over 45 years’ experience in property management and lettings, Pearl and Coutts have a wide selection of affordable student flats in London.
Have a look at our property online or call us on +44 20 7843 9180; as both a landlord and a letting agent, we are able to save you time and money.