The autumn term has just got going, but for thousands of students the frantic search for next year’s digs has already begun. While future freshers will likely face halls of residence, most second and third years will either be flat hunting or looking for shared houses. For many it will be their first experience of choosing their own lodging, so check out our guide on helping your kids avoid nasty surprises.
Decide between furnished or unfurnished
It can be a hassle having to furnish a student house, but at least your child and their friends will get the chance to put a more personal stamp on the property. Purchase pieces that could be used in your own home in the future, although if it’s likely to be a party place buy less expensive furnishings that won’t cost too much to replace. Whichever option you choose, you’ll find a fantastic range of wardrobes, sofas and other living essentials online at Isme.
Check what appliances are included
A house of five students is going to see a fair amount of laundry, so if there’s no washing machine be sure to check that there’s a launderette nearby. No one wants to face a term’s worth of washing in the Christmas holidays, which means access to a washer really is essential. Similarly, make sure your child checks what other white goods come with the property before signing the contract.
Make sure everything is safe and sound
Now you know what’s in the house, make sure all the appliances are working and have been checked recently. It they haven’t or there’s an issue, take it up with the landlord before the moving in date, as facing a broken fridge or boiler is not a good way to start life in a new house. Checking for damp is also important, since this not only signals a chilly house but can cause health problems.
While you’ll want to be sure that your child’s house is suitable, it’s important that they learn to think about these potential problems too. Offering advice and asking careful questions shows you’re interested without taking over, and can also give you some peace of mind.
Disclosure: This post was brought to you by Kira
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You can and i would say must also ask about neighbours and neighbourhood. When me and partner were planning to move in together we found 2 lovely flats in the same house. One was ok for me but i really didnt like the smell of cigarettes, the other one was much nicer, but we were told by people renting “smelly” flat that above our second choice flat are living very noisy teenage girls.
We raised our concerns with an estate agent, he reassured us that all is sorted and he actually never heard of any complaints before. Well, we should of listened to a “smelly” flat tenants as they were right! to cut the story short we moved out in a month as we couldn’t stand the nuisance…so beware of loud neighbours and best to speak with people who actually are living in the flat/house/area
Victoria recently posted…Changes in my life
Students can get such a rough deal from some leasing agents- my god daughter just had to pay rent for 3 weeks that she wasn’t allowed by them to live in the property- bonkers!! I think part furnished is ideal- as you dont want to be shifting too much stuff about- but I agree personalisation is a must to feel at home!
Sonya Cisco recently posted…Self Esteem with a little Help From Dove
I agree with Victoria above. It’s good to thoroughly check the area out.
It’s worth doing ‘drive-by’s’ at different times of the day and night just to see what goes on in the area.
Liz Burton recently posted…Magpie Monday – Rough and Tumble Jumble
I shall be having to think about this soon too, with my son just doing his A-levels – eek. Thank you for the advice.
Pinkoddy recently posted…Halo Mega Bloks – am I missing the point?
Ugh I’m so glad my flat renting days are over (hopefully) but my kids aren’t far off having to do that so this is a good place for tips!
Actually Mummy… recently posted…Children’s Book Week: Born to Read
I can remember looking for houses with my mam and honestly I was shocked by the state of properties that landlords and estate agents expect tenants to live in
Boo Roo and Tigger Too recently posted…Kid’s Capture the Colour #KIDSCTC
Am seriously not looking forward to having to think about this for my kids. Right now they’re all under five so imagine things might be a bit different by then – well I at least hope so. I’ve heard so many horror stories from friends!
Stacey Corrin recently posted…5 Ways New Parents Can Live Greener