The reason for writing this blog-post is that as a student in Leeds, finding the perfect student house can be an exciting yet daunting task. To help you navigate this process with ease and confidence, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide with valuable tips on student house hunting in Leeds.
How to Stay Calm When House Hunting
House hunting can be stressful, but there are many ways to keep your head throughout the process:
Have a Solid Crew: Ensure that you have a strong relationship with the housemates you intend on sharing with. This reduces the risk of groups breaking down and numbers changing during the house-hunting process. You don’t want to spend weeks looking for a 6 bed only to have to start again looking for a 4 bed.
Start Early: House-hunting in Leeds starts late October to early November, so begin your search well in advance to avoid last-minute rushes and a lack of good quality properties. This will give you ample time to explore different options and make an informed decision.
Create a Checklist: Make a list of your priorities, such as location, budget, and the number of housemates. This will help you stay focused on what matters most to you. Do you want en-suite bathrooms, parking, a garden, a dining room? This will also help to narrow down your search and not waste time seeing houses you don’t want to see.
Set a Realistic Budget: Determine your budget and stick to it. Factor in not only rent but also utility bills and living expenses. It needs to be a budget both you and your housemates agree on so it’s important to establish this early on.
Stay Organised: Keep records of the properties you visit, including links, photos, notes, and contact information. This will help you compare options later.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask landlords or agents questions about the property, such as safety certification, maintenance policies, security, and any included amenities. Ask about the services they provide and always check their Google Reviews.
What to Do Before Moving Into a Student House
Before moving in, take these essential steps to ensure a smooth transition:
Inspect the Property: Take the time to walk through the house and note any existing damages or issues. Document these in writing and with photos to avoid disputes later. Some agencies will provide software such as Inventory Hive for you to use. This is a great tool for documenting the condition you find the property in.
Check the Inventory: Ensure that all appliances and furnishings mentioned in the rental agreement are present and in working condition.
Review the Contract: Carefully read and understand the rental agreement, including the terms, rent due dates, and any special clauses. Seek clarification if needed.
Set Up Utilities: If you have not gone for bills included rent, arrange for the transfer of utility accounts (electricity, gas, water, Wi-Fi) into your name. Don’t forget to budget for these expenses.
How to Make a Student House Feel Like Home
Once you’ve found the perfect student house in Leeds, it’s now time to turn it into a comfortable and welcoming home:
Personalise Your Space: Add your personal touch with posters, photos, and decorations that reflect your style and personality. Be aware though, as adhesives such as blue and white tack can damage your walls that may be deductible from your deposit at the end of your tenancy.
Create a Cosy Atmosphere: Invest in comfortable furnishings and bedding to make your living spaces inviting and relaxing. Add colour with cushions and throws. LED lighting and fairy-lights can look awesome in a cosy bedroom.
Cook Together: Sharing meals with your housemates can foster a sense of community. Plan regular cooking nights or potluck dinners. There are some great student cooking blogs to make the experience less expensive and manageable.
Establish House Rules: Set clear guidelines and expectations with your housemates regarding chores, shared expenses, and noise levels to maintain a harmonious living environment. Most tenancy agreements will have guidance for anti-social behaviour both inside and outside your house.
How to Keep a Student House Safe
Safety should be a top priority in your student house:
Lock Doors and Windows: Always lock doors and windows when you leave the house to prevent unauthorised entry. It’s also wise to keep the front door locked and ground floor windows closed when you are in the house. This will stop any opportunists trying to gain access.
Check Your Security Measures: Ensure the present security measures are in full working order such as deadbolts, window locks, and your burglar alarm.
Know Your Neighbours: Get to know your neighbours, as they can be an additional source of support and security.
Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items out of sight and consider investing in a safe for important documents and possessions.
Emergency Plans: Establish emergency plans with your housemates, including what to do in case of fire or other emergencies.
To Conclude…
By following these tips, you can make your student house hunting experience in Leeds a smoother and more enjoyable process. Transforming your new house into a home and prioritising safety will ensure that your time as a student in Leeds is memorable and comfortable.
We will be releasing our Redbrick Properties student property list on the 1st November 2023, so please bookmark this post and follow the link to the student property section on our website.
Happy House Hunting!
