So far in the Move Smart campaign, we’ve looked at the resources out there to help with your search, FAQ links to answer your queries and housing related events that are coming up.
This week we’re focussing on two key things to consider when you start looking: Price and Place.
Price
With the price of many aspects of day-to-day life currently rising, rent might be at the top of your list when you start to narrow down your accommodation search.
- There are other things to think about besides the actual rent, such as bills or extra costs that might not be included and how much you’ll need to pay up front for a deposit. Take a look at the Price tab on our website for a checklist of things to consider. The Students’ Guild website also highlights important aspects to compare when looking at the overall costs of different places.
- One way of opening-up more choice to suit your budget is to look at houses slightly further away from the campuses or city centre, which might have a lower rental price. Take a look at the Student Accommodation Radius Map for a guide to rental costs in different areas.
- The University Cost of Living webpages include lots of advice and links to help with rising prices and household bills.
Place
- As we’ve already mentioned, broadening your search a little in terms of proximity to campus or town can result in more options to choose from for accommodation. You’ll find a guide to local areas, including transport links on our website.
- There are a range of different accommodation types out there to choose from, depending on your preferences, lifestyle and budget. From purpose-built student accommodation to a room with a landlord or host family, it’s worth writing a list of pros and cons for each before making your decision. Find out more on our accommodation options webpage.
- Perhaps you want to begin by just seeing what’s available out there, searching by the number of bedrooms in a property or by weekly rental price. The free online search portal StudentPad can do that for you – you can even sign up to receive property alerts as new places are added, based on your search criteria.
Upcoming Events
Housing Advice Events
Running on 24, 25, 26, and 28 October at various university residences.
Chat with the Residence Life Mentors, Students’ Guild and Community Engagement Officers about finding accommodation after your first year. Find out more on the Residence Life Facebook Page.
Private Accommodation Pop-Up event
7 November, 10:00 – 14:00 in the Forum Street, Streatham
This will be a chance to chat to private landlords and purpose-built accommodation providers about their available properties, facilities and rents.
Instagram Q&A Session on the University Students Instagram channel
Early November – TBC
Your opportunity to get answers to any housing questions you have from the likes of the Residence Life Team, Students’ Guild and Community Engagement Team. The Q&A will take place over the next few weeks. Keep an eye on the blog and social channels for a confirmed date.
In the next Move Smart blog we’ll be looking at how to figure out who the best people to live with are, and how to find them. In the meantime, keep an eye on the Accommodation Facebook page for more updates on events and resources to help with your housing search, and if you feel like you need further support, please get in touch with one of the advice teams.
Accommodation Team