Choosing a student rental property can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time living away from home. To help you navigate this important decision, here is a comprehensive guide highlighting key factors to consider when selecting your ideal rental property.
1. Separate Washing Machine and Dryer
While the quality of 2-in-1 washer-dryer combos has improved over recent years, they often fall short when it comes to effectively drying clothes, especially compared to dedicated dryers. This can lead to prolonged drying times or the need to hang laundry indoors, which might cause dampness problems and discomfort.
Using a washer-dryer that runs for hours on end also significantly increases energy consumption. For student households, particularly those with four or more occupants, having a separate dryer ensures laundry is completed quickly and efficiently, saving both time and energy.
2. Fridge Space
In Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs), sufficient fridge and freezer space is crucial to accommodate the perishable food needs of all residents. As a general rule, one fridge/freezer per 2-3 people is ideal. For example, a three-person house can typically manage with one fridge, but larger groups will require additional refrigeration.
Overlooking this aspect can lead to cramped fridge storage, which can be inconvenient and unhygienic. Ensuring adequate fridge space helps maintain food freshness and reduces conflicts among housemates.
3. Leisure Space
A communal leisure space is essential in fostering a good social atmosphere among housemates. This area, located outside individual bedrooms, provides a place to relax, unwind, and interact. Even if you don’t know your future housemates during the search process, prioritizing a property with a comfortable shared lounge or common area is highly beneficial to prevent feelings of overcrowding.
4. Fairly Sized Rooms
Room sizes vary widely depending on location and rental market dynamics. In some regions like Cardiff, rent is divided equally among tenants regardless of room size, while in other areas, rent is apportioned based on the size and features (e.g., en suite bathrooms) of individual rooms.
Striving for fairness in room allocation is key to maintaining harmony among housemates. If dividing rent fairly proves challenging, neutral methods such as drawing names from a hat can offer an impartial solution.
5. Location
The location of your student rental impacts daily convenience and quality of life. Key considerations include proximity to public transport links, grocery stores within walking distance, accessible parks or recreational areas, local shops, and of course, how close the property is to your university or college buildings.
Consulting with a trusted professional property management company can help you discover valuable insights about local amenities and transport options, making your student living experience more enjoyable and efficient.
6. Bathroom Options
For households with more than three people, having multiple bathrooms is essential to avoid morning and evening queues. A property with at least two bathrooms, ideally each equipped with a shower and toilet, greatly enhances convenience and reduces stress during busy times.
7. Broadband Speed
In today’s digital age, fast and reliable internet connectivity is vital for students who rely on online resources for study, streaming, and socializing. Before committing to a rental, use an online broadband checker to verify the internet speeds available in the area. This small step can prevent frustration caused by slow WiFi and improve your overall living experience.
8. Study Spaces
Having dedicated study areas within your rental can significantly enhance productivity. While many students prefer libraries or campus study zones, some thrive with quiet, personal spaces at home. Look for properties that offer suitable study setups such as desks or separate office areas, which can sometimes be converted from smaller bedrooms—providing a valuable private workspace.
This article was written by Zac on behalf of Seraph Property Management..
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Additionally, when selecting a student rental, it’s important to assess factors like safety and security features of the property. Ensuring the property has functioning locks, well-lit common areas, and secure entry points contributes to a comfortable living environment. Checking reviews or feedback from previous tenants can also provide insights into the landlord’s responsiveness and property management quality. Taking the time to evaluate these aspects helps in choosing a rental that not only meets your needs but also supports a safe and stress-free student lifestyle.
