What to look for when searching for your student accommodation

It’s that the of year again when you start the hunt for where you will call home for the next 12 months. 

If you’re starting University, then working out where is best to live can be quite daunting. If you’re in your second or third year then you may be have some idea of what you’re looking for, or you could be moving out of halls of residence and needing somewhere new. 

Below we have listed our top tips on what to look for when choosing your student accommodation. 

• Location, location, location

First things first, location. Location is key when looking for your new home. 

You need to work out how close you want to be to the University and if you are not close, how long will it take to travel? And more importantly how much will travel cost? 

Do you want to be somewhere quiet and secluded or bustling and vibrant? 

You also need to work out how close you are to local amenities….you don’t want to be running out of milk or desperate for that morning coffee and having no where to go! 

• Monthly cost 

Think of your budget. Realistically what can you afford a month? This needs to be set out before you start looking, otherwise you run the risk of falling in love with something that is out of your price range. Manage your expectations (and your bank balance).

• Are utilities included in the price?

You’ve found somewhere you like and it’s within your price range, but have you factored in utility bills such as water, gas electricity and WIFI? Or does your accommodation include this within their total price? 

On top of your accommodation you will also need to factor in your monthly food budget and travel. Affording your accommodation is one thing, but living within it is another.

• Cleaning and laundry 

Some student apartments charge extra for cleaning and laundry facilities. Or if you have to go to a launderette, realistically how often are you going to get down there?  You may be totally fine with doing so, but even so, it’s a thought that needs to be considered. No one likes a ‘floordrobe’. 

• Apartment sizes 

Always check the floor plan. When looking for a new apartment you need to work out what size you are looking for and what kind of space suits you. 

Would you prefer an open plan studio? Or would you prefer a one bedroom? Does the way you live resonate with the layout of the apartment? After all, you are going to spend a lot of time there, so it needs work for you. 

• Workspace 

You’re going to be studying, so do you have adequate study space for this? Does the apartment have a desk for you?

There is no point finding somewhere that doesn’t have this space because when the novelty wears off, this will be the first thing to annoy you.

• Additional stay fees?

Is there a chance that you will need to stay longer over the summer? Will you need to find alternative accommodation or does your current place charge additional fees for staying over your tenancy agreement? 

Our top tip would be to always check with the accommodation provider before you sign an agreement regarding the flexibility of your stay.

We hope you found our checklist helpful. At Urban Creation we provide luxury studio accommodation all located in central Bristol within the Clifton and Park Street area. 

With a range of properties to choose from, all of our apartments include city living with prices inclusive of both utility bills and TV licence. Extra facilities include smart HD TV’s, en suite showers, mobile key access and ample desk and storage space. 

For more information on our student properties, please click here.