Moving in to a Salford student house share some time soon? Before you do, read our advice about choosing the right one for you and your friends.
Choose Your New Housemates Wisely
If you want to have a great year in your new house, you’ll need great housemates. That’s why choosing them is such a hard task. Living with your friend that goes out every night to party might seem like great fun, but later in the year when you’re deep in an essay on an all nighter, you won’t want him banging on your door and making a racket when he comes home drunk at 4am. Make sure you trust them too; you don’t want them stealing your food when they can’t be bothered to cook for themselves.
Create a Budget That Works For Everyone
Once you’ve chosen your new housemates, it’s time to agree on a budget. Don’t forget that some people may have more money to spend than others. You need to work out a budget that everyone can afford and that everyone is happy with. Keep it realistic and within your student finance allowance.
Don’t Leave It Too Late
We can’t stress this one enough! One of the most common mistakes we see students make is leaving house hunting to the last minute and having to settle for something they’re not entirely happy with, or having to live with other students they don’t like. You should give yourself lots of time to find the house that’s right for you and your friends. You should have signed a contract at the very latest before everyone goes away for summer. Ideally though, you’ll want it sorted by Easter.
Pick An Area To Live In
Unsurprisingly, student houses tend to be close to university campuses and various shops and supermarkets. Living near other students is the best option. That way, you’ll be with people who have the same interests as you and you won’t be disturbing families with your antics. Also consider what kind of vibe you want; do you want loud and bustling or quiet and relaxed?
Get Familiar With The Legal Stuff
Contracts
When you’ve chosen the house you want, you’ll have to sign a contract. You may want to show your documents to the student advice centre at your university for them to check so you have peace of mind. Tenancy contracts are legally binding so make sure you definitely want to live in a property before signing.
Rent
One of the key components of the contract is the statement of how much rent you’ll pay and when it should be paid. It will also detail any instances where extra fees may be imposed, such as when a key has been lost and needs replacing.
Tenant Obligations
This part of the contract will explain what your duties are as a tenant. Typical responsibilities include being respectful of your neighbours, carrying out minor maintenance work such as changing light bulbs and keeping your house clean.
Landlord Obligations
Your contract will also show the landlord’s duties whilst you are a tenant in the property. Examples include major repair work and ensuring the house is compliant with gas, fire and electricity legislation.
Check Out The Property Yourself
If you’ve seen a property you like the look of online, don’t go signing for it straight away without having a look at it first. Speak to a member of the team at Mistoria Estate Agents and they’ll be able to book a viewing for you. You’ll be able to get an idea of whether you see yourself living there for a year or more and whether it meets your needs in terms of size and facilities.
Need Help Finding a Salford Student House Share?
Then come to Mistoria Estate Agents for advice. Our professional team will be able to answer any questions you have and will help you find a property that suits everyone in your group. Contact us now.