This brings me on to location… Make sure everyone agrees on a location before renting! If you want to live near the clubs, then find people who also want to live there… If you want to live near campus then find like-minded housemates! There is nothing worse than listening to your housemates moaning about how far away university is – ON A DAILY BASIS.
Before beginning to look at houses, make a list of everything you want in the house! I can’t stress this enough as it saves so much time only viewing the houses which meet your needs; so head down to the estate agents with your specifications and book a few viewings!
Now, when you go off to your viewings, ignore the estate agent when he suddenly states “I’ve another three house viewings here today” after you’ve expressed a slight interest in the house – it’s a classic sales trick. Don’t give in to the pressure to quickly sign!
After viewing ALL of the houses, discuss with your housemates which ones were your two favourites and take a second look around – sometimes you can get caught up and remember a house being completely different to what it actually is. Moreover, it allows you check the more specific elements of the house such as double glazing, how old the boiler is and if locks on doors and windows are secure.
In second year, house hunting was a little daunting and I didn’t really ask questions – ANOTHER MISTAKE! Write a list of questions of things you’re unsure of: when rent is due, who to call if there is a problem (the landlord or the agency), are bills included etc – parents are a great source for questions. This will ensure you don’t come away thinking “ahh I forgot to ask..”
I hope my experience help you find a house in the ideal location, with the people who’ll make your uni experience unforgettable!
Enjoy… It’s over all too soon!
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