Finding the perfect accommodation is essential when students plan to move out for the university. This significant change in students' lives must be taken into consideration. 

Housing becomes a critical consideration for students planning to study abroad, especially since on-campus accommodation is often situated far from the city centre. This location challenge not only makes daily commuting potentially tiresome for young adults but also complicates the job hunting process, as most employment opportunities are typically found in more central areas. For many students choosing to have a side job during their studies, campus accommodation seems to be limited, and they have to look for alternatives. So, in this blog, we will discuss some of the best ways to find off-campus accommodations for a smooth transition. Read on!

1. University Resources

The university is one of the primary sources for information on off-campus accommodations. Most universities in the UK have dedicated housing offices or student services teams that offer support in searching for suitable housing options. 

Swing by the university accommodation office or browse their website, where you may discover hidden gems that still need to make it to the online platforms. These properties usually meet specific standards set by the university, so you can rest easy knowing you're not signing up for a dodgy deal.

2. Online Search

The internet is your best friend when searching for off-campus student accommodation. Many online letting platforms cater specifically to students, such as amberstudent, community pages or even good old-fashioned Facebook groups. Online search is one of the easiest ways for students to find the perfect accommodation. However, the internet is full of scammers that can cause you trouble finding something authentic. 

Be cautious and read reviews or testimonials about the property and the landlord to ensure reliability and safety. LinkedIn is a friendly tip for finding authentic property; look for the agent's LinkedIn and ensure your sources are safe. 

3. Social Media Groups

Facebook, Instagram and community channels like Quora have become student hubs, and many cities or colleges have dedicated groups where students can share information, advice, and even property listings. Suppose you plan to study in London, and student housing in London would be tricky since the city is enormous and offers different options. These social media groups are perfect to find your ultimate accommodation to start your educational journey.

Joining relevant clubs or forums allows you to tap into the local student network and learn about off-campus housing options that may not be readily available through other means. Engaging with other students who have found or are looking for off-campus housing might provide helpful insights and potential housemates.

4. Recommendations from Fellow Students

When obtaining off-campus housing, your university's student guild or recommendation from other fellow students might be a goldmine of information. Talking to seniors or engaging in university groups can provide firsthand knowledge of promising regions and recommendations for trustworthy landlords or houses not commonly marketed. 

Attend guild or college events, strike up talks, and obtain recommendations for student-friendly locations or landlords. When locating your desired student housing, nothing beats plain old-fashioned word-of-mouth!

5. Estate Agents

The Estate agents frequently have a diverse inventory of properties on their books and may provide you with experienced advice on the local rental market. Do your complete research before making any payments, and ensure the properties you book are student-friendly. 

You might think real estate agents only provide traditional housing, but once you speak to them, you will at least get an idea of where to head next. Remember that expert assistance does not have to be costly!

6. Local Newspapers & University Notice Boards

The university bulletin boards demonstrate that there is sometimes no substitute for old-school approaches. Scan the notice boards in your university's main buildings or common areas for rental listings. Local newspapers often have a dedicated section for property advertisements, while notice boards in student unions or local supermarkets are frequently filled with flat listings. 

Checking these sources regularly and proactively contacting landlords or agencies can help secure a suitable living space. Furthermore, you may come across other important information, such as flatmate requests or furniture sales – talk about a one-stop shop!

 

With patience and determination, you can easily find off-campus accommodation. Hopefully, the above points helped you understand what necessities to consider before renting. Students can effectively navigate the often daunting task of finding off-campus housing in the UK.