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What Options Do I have For Student Accommodation?

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There are a variety of possibilities when it comes to choosing your next student accommodation:

They generally are based on the area you want to livein, the person you would like to share your space in with (or and not) and the amount you’re willing to pay.

You might be contemplating moving into a new home with acquaintances, or have already decided you want a bit more tranquility and peace. Whatever your reasons you’re looking for, the perfect home for you is definitely out there.

We’ve put together some pros and cons of the major types of student accommodation available:

Private Flats
House Shares
Halls of Residence
Resident Landlords.

Private Flats

Many consider this to be the ultimate goal of student living. A private flat, where you can have all the freedom that comes from being a completely independent person. No mess in the bathroom or kitchen (or perhaps an absence of unexpected mess). Also, no one is going to wake you up at the end of the night because they’ve got ‘band practice’ in the living room.

The drawbacks of this kind of living are that it’s expensive. A one bedroom flat could end up being quite expensive, particularly in bigger cities and the more desirable areas! However, a bargain can be found, especially if you are willing to compromise in terms of location.

They also are less social when they live in a home that is communal. It’s simple really – having smaller numbers of people living in the house means there are less people planning out nights out watching movies, or cooking home meals. That’s not to say that the private space isn’t enjoyment – but at moments activities are likely to be less likely to occur.

Advantages: Privacy, independence Your own space No messy flatmates

Cons: More expensive, Less sociable

House Shares

Most popular choice for accommodation for students in Leicester is a flat share (or flat share). There are several primary reasons to consider this. They’re usually a affordable alternative to renting your own house. Rent, bills, and maybe even food costs. Most houses offer affordable and the majority will provide each occupant with an individual room. There is also a greater feeling of independence and freedom that you can get from private halls.

Due to the nature of this arrangement this arrangement, the house is shared. This is potentially great news for your social life, and allows you to move in with friends. But it also means more washing up, and plenty of hair in the shower plug hole. It’s a shared responsibility too, which can be great as it is everyone carries their responsibility.

Pros: Friendly, cheaper than private rooms more freedom than halls, Ability to share a space with friends

Cons There are more people to organize Most homes have shared kitchens and bathrooms. It can be messy… quick

Resident Landlords

You might also have the option of residing with a landlord who is a resident. This means you will be renting a room at a house where the landlord lives. In this instance, the landlord is also your housemate. This could be a great alternative for you. Rents are usually in line with what you would pay in a shared house. But the experience can be heavily affected by how well you get on with the landlord.

You are not likely to be students at a university So they might not be the most enthusiastic of your bringing your buddies to your house late at night, for instance. However, on the other side to this you might enjoy the opportunity to maintain your own home as an oasis away from the social scene.

Pros: Cheaper than an individual flat, less chaotic than living with other students at university.

Cons: less freedom, Will likely have to adhere to house rules

Private Halls of Residence

In many universities, the majority of students be living in halls of residence at universities. They may differ in the terms of quality and location based on the specific university. However, they are often a pretty good mix of life in the social, academic and convenience. So, when you are ready to get out of university halls, a possible option would be to move into private residence halls. In many ways, they’re very similar to the halls of residence at your university.

They provide a community of university students living closely together. Every student has their own rooms, and plenty of space for students to study and socialize. In most cases, they provide ‘flats’ within the halls, where you can have your own space however, you share a kitchen with students. However, there are other advantages to opting for a private halls.

Private halls are usually equipped with en-suite rooms, much higher quality communal areas, and could even include an exercise room, concierge service, or even a cafe. They are more expensive than the average home share, however they generally cover all your costs when you cost of rent. Private halls are usually located in the most desirable locations and are a huge benefit, especially in larger cities. They’re an excellent alternative if you’re looking for the privacy and independence you deserve, but want to enjoy some extra amenities and other like-minded neighbors.

Pros: Luxury, private rooms, often with an en-suite Student neighbours, Well maintained communal areas

Cons Costs: Higher than a shared residence, You’re less independent than your own place

At the end of the day, the style of accommodation you choose will greatly depend on your personal preference. Always remember, it’s best to have a think about all the possibilities. Research what is available in your local area first, and think about what you want when it comes to finding homes.