Top Tips for Choosing Your First-Year Uni Accommodation

University is a thrilling time, but choosing the right student accommodation for your first year can be daunting. If you’re an A-level student hoping to attend university next year, it’s always a good idea to start thinking about where you want to live as early as possible. 

Here are some of the best-kept secrets from Amber Student, a platform that helps students to book full-time accommodation near leading universities worldwide:

1. Understand Your Needs and Preferences

While looking for your first-year uni accommodation, the first step is to understand what exactly you’re looking for in your accommodation. Here are some factors to consider so you don’t get overwhelmed: 

• Budget: Decide on the maximum amount you can spend per month on accommodation. Make sure to include utilities, internet, student essentials, and other features associated with property ownership.

• Accommodation type: Choose between university halls, off-campus accommodation, shared houses, or flats. For first-year students, PBSAs or purpose-built student accommodations can be great choices while opting for off-campus housing options, as they can provide safety and socialisation opportunities with your peers.

• Location: Make sure the location of your student accommodation is well-connected and safe, especially if you’re opting for an off-campus student accommodation. Locations near the city centre can be a great choice for first-year students, as they can give them access to all the amenities they might need. 

• Amenities: Make a list of all the amenities that you want in your dorm room. These amenities can include Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, study spaces and gym rooms. While you may not find all the amenities on your list, you will at least be able to approach your options with a clearer mind. 

2. Research Your Options Thoroughly

The next step is to look into what scenario best works for you. Explore uni websites, student forums, or accommodation services to find your ideal student housing while reflecting on the following:

• Reviews and Ratings: Try to find feedback or testimonials from either existing or former residents, as they can give you a more practical picture of how well the accommodation is managed. 

• Virtual Tour: Many providers offer virtual tours of accommodations via sharing pictures and videos, which will give you a good idea of the living conditions of the property without the need to visit in person.

3. Consider the Social Environment

Your first year is a good time to meet some fresh faces and create social networks. Consider whether your accommodation has common areas and places to socialise. Some accommodation providers even organise social events for you, so you can meet like-minded peers. 

4. Check Safety and Security

Your safety and security are the most important things when looking for a first-year uni accommodation. So make sure your chosen accommodation has the following:

• 24/7 Security: Moving out and living on your own as a young adult might sound intimidating. So, to be on the safer side, you should look for flats with 24/7 security, such as on-site security personnel, advanced locks, and security cameras.  

• Fire Safety: Ensure the uni accommodation you choose has fire alarms, extinguishers, and well-marked passageways everywhere on the premises for safety. 

5. Check the Contract and Policies

Make sure you read the contract and all terms and policies before signing ANY agreement. Here are some key considerations to be careful about:  

• Lease length: Carefully understand the lease length of the housing to ensure it coincides with your academic years.

• Cancellation Policies: Insist on a cancellation clause in your contract. Housing situations can be unpredictable, and you need the flexibility to move out if circumstances change. 

• Guest policies: Learn the guest policies for the accommodation. Understand who is allowed, the timing for visitations, and whether overnight stays are allowed at all.  

6. Balance Between Privacy and Community

While socialising and living in a community is fun and fulfilling, you might also feel the need for privacy so you can do the things you love and, of course, focus on your studies. Here’s what to look for: 

• Private Rooms vs. Shared Rooms: Choose if you want your own place or split a room with someone else.

• Ensuite Versus Shared Bathrooms: While suites are more private, shared use can be cheaper.

Conclusion

We hope the tips mentioned above will help you find the best of the best first-time experience in student accommodation. Until then, best wishes for your home-hunting!

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