Now that you have managed to get into your dream university, there is a lot of planning to do. At the top of this list is student accommodation. While some students are lucky to get accommodation in school, others miss rooms and have to hustle for a place. If you are one of the latter, worry not, for there are plenty of ways you can use to find accommodation.

 

1.   The student’s union

Your student’s union should be your first go-to place when looking for information about credible housing agencies, for housing advice and when looking for housemates. Usually, they provide a guide that lists the reliable agencies in your region, and they tell you about the reputable ones. If it has taken longer than expected to hear from the university accommodation office, consider chasing up. Although it may seem like you are a nag, giving them another call or sending another email is better than missing out on accommodation. You may also enlist the help of the student’s union officials.

 

2.   Student accommodation forums

Student accommodation forums are also ideal for finding potential rooms and housemates within the region. You can send your message through the various forums, such as on social media or the notice boards. You will receive responses from students who are also looking for houses or from someone who wants to rent out their place. Alternatively, you can go through posts on the forum from other students and reach out to one who you feel can help. If you do this, you will soon be on your way to booking your accommodation, because many students out there are in a similar situation, and all you should do is to find them.

 

3.   Look for a housemate

In case the struggle is getting tougher by the day, and there isn’t much hope of finding your place, consider sharing a room with one or more students. Most students choose to live with a housemate, especially during their first semester. This will give you time to know more about the neighborhood. By the time you are done with your freshman year, you will be aware of several options, so, you can easily land a right place.

 

4.   Social housing

Social housing is tailored for students with low income. Considering that most students study full time, this is a good option. The catch here is that most run on a point-based system. This means that those who have been looking for a long time and signed up a while back have higher chances than those who signed up recently. Therefore, if you want this option, make sure you sign up early to get a spot.

 

5.   Social media

However dodgy this might sound, social media is one of the best places to find housing alternatives. Once you receive your offer letter, consider looking up Facebook and Twitter related posts. With the popularity of social media, many students run to forums and Facebook pages in search of roommates and people to let houses. However, you must be extra cautious when dealing with someone you find online. Well, this sounds cliché, but make sure you meet them in a public place and tag your friend along.

 

6.   Use an accommodation tool or website

With the evolution of tech and the thousands of apps out there, you can surely find a tool that will help you get a place. Make sure you use one that is meant for students or at least mention that you are a student during your quest. That way, you will avoid getting places that do not match your preferences or student lifestyle.

 

Bonus tips

·      Don’t panic

Regardless of how late you are, make sure to keep calm. Even when you are looking for the best real estate you can find in the last minute or you cannot seem to find a place, staying relaxed helps you find accommodation easily. In case you feel stressed, remember to take deep breathes – it helps.

 

·      Understand your options

If you miss out on on-campus accommodation placement, consider your other alternatives. Many ways of finding an ideal place exist, but you must be aware of the options. Ask friends or visit the school for trustworthy recommendations.

 

·      Act fast

This is crucial, as it can be your best bet to finding a place. Once you receive the university placement offer, start looking for accommodation right away. Avoid waiting to act last minute as it might mess you up. Besides, the best alternatives usually get filled up first.

 

·      Safety first

You should take extra caution when dealing with people and agents. Use only credible sites. Before signing a contract, go through every detail carefully, to ensure that you aren’t duped.

Student accommodation varies widely, depending on the institution and its location. It is easier to find a place in some universities than others. Regardless of where you are attending school, know your options and act swiftly. Keeping calm also helps in keeping stress at bay.

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October 22, 2018