There are a variety of options when it comes to choosing your next college place of residence:
This is usually based on the location you’d like to reside in, the people you want to live with (or otherwise) and how much you’d like to spend.
You might be contemplating moving into a house with a group of acquaintances, or have already made the decision to get a bit more quiet and peace. Whatever your reasons you’re looking for, the right place for you is probably out there.
We’ve listed some pros and cons of the main types of student accommodation on the market:
Private Flats
House Shares
Halls of Residence
Resident Landlords.
Private Flats
For many, this is the ultimate goal of student living. In a private house, you have the freedom that comes from living alone. There is no mess in the bathroom or kitchen (or could we say an absence of unexpected mess). Also, no one is going to awaken you in the middle of the night because they’ve got “band practice” in your living room.
The disadvantages of this type of lifestyle is that it’s expensive. A one-bedroom house can end up being pretty expensive, especially in the major cities and in more sought-after areas! However, finding a great deal is certainly still possible, especially if you are willing to sacrifice a little on the area.
They also are less sociable than living in a house that is shared. It’s as simple as that – having smaller numbers of people living in the home means that there’s fewer people who plan outings, having movie nights or making home-cooked meals. It’s not that a private flat equals no enjoyable – however, spur of the moment activities are going to be less likely.
The pros: Privacy and autonomy Privacy, your own space No messy flatmates
Cons: More expensive, Less sociable
House Shares
By far the most popular option for students is a house share (or flat share). There are several primary reasons why this is. They’re typically a cheaper option than renting your own home. They split the cost of rent, bills and perhaps even food costs. Most houses offer affordable and most will give each person an individual room. It also gives you a better feeling of independence and freedom that you can get from private halls.
By the very nature of this arrangement this arrangement, the house is shared. This is potentially great news to your life socially, and lets you move in with your friends. But it can also lead to more laundry, and a lot more hair that gets stuck in the shower hole. There’s a shared responsibility too, which can be great as long as everyone pulls their responsibility.
Pros: Sociable, Cheaper than private rooms, More freedom than halls, Ability to live with friends
Cons: More people to organise Most homes have shared kitchens and bathrooms, Can get chaotic… quick
Resident Landlords
There is also the option of moving with a landlord who lives there. Effectively this means that you’d be renting a space in a house where the landlord lives. In this instance, the landlord also happens to be your housemate. This is a good option for you. Rent is typically on par as what you’d have to pay for a house shared. However, your experience will be strongly influenced by how you are able to get along with the landlord.
It is unlikely that they are an undergraduate student So they might not be the most enthusiastic of your bringing your buddies round late at night for instance. But on the flip side there is a chance that you might prefer the idea of keeping your own home as an oasis away from the social scene.
Pros: Cheaper than an individual flat, less chaotic than renting with other university students
Cons: less freedom, Will likely have to adhere to the house rules
private residences in Halls of Residency
In many universities, the majority of students be living in university residence halls. These may vary in their design and amenities based on the particular university. However, they’re generally a pretty good mix of social life, study and convenience. When it comes time to get out of university halls, one option might be to consider moving into private accommodation for students in Leicester. In many ways they’re very similar to the halls you have at your university.
They provide a community of students from the university living close together. Every room is a separate one and plenty of common space to work and chill out. Often they offer ‘flats’ in the halls. These are where you get your own space however, you share a kitchen with other students. However, there are several advantages of opting for a hall that is private.
Private halls are usually equipped with an en-suite bathroom, as well as more luxurious communal areas, and could even include a gym, concierge, or even a cafe. They’re higher priced than your typical house share , but they usually include all your bills with the cost of rent. Private halls are often located in the most desirable locations and are a huge advantage, particularly in bigger cities. They can be a great option for those looking for your own space and freedom but also want additional amenities and have neighbors who are like you.
Pros: Luxury, private rooms often with en-suite, student neighbors, Well-maintained communal areas
Cons Costs: Higher than a shared house Less freedom than your own place
In the end of the day, the type of hotel you pick will greatly depend on your personal preferences. Remember, it is always best to have considered all possibilities. Research what is available within your region first, then think about what you’re looking for when looking to purchase the perfect home.
