Education

Advice on renting student accommodation in Edinburgh

renting student accommodation

If you’re a student, there’s a good chance you’ll be renting your own accommodation at some point during your time at university. The good news is that there’s a lot of choice out there, whether you want to live in halls of residence or a privately owned house. However, there are a few things you should consider in advance when it comes to renting student accommodation.

The type of Edinburgh student accommodation you choose will have an impact on your living costs and it’s important to think carefully about what you need from a flat or house before making a commitment. For example, are you happy to share a kitchen and bathroom with others? Are you planning on working alongside your studies? Will your budget allow you to afford the rent and other essentials?

In addition to considering your budget, you’ll also need to factor in any additional costs. This may include bills, furniture, internet or even heating (depending on the season). It’s worth checking that any property you’re considering is covered by one of the three recognised schemes – UUK, ANUK and Unipol – which help students protect their deposit and rent payments in the event of a problem.

Advice on renting student accommodation in Edinburgh

A guarantor is typically required when renting a property and this could be a parent, guardian or friend who is willing to sign a contract stating they will cover your rent if you fail to pay. Alternatively, you may find landlords who are more flexible and do not require a guarantor.

You can start looking for edinburgh student flats from the first week of November, which is when many letting agencies begin advertising properties for the following academic year. However, the best places will get snapped up quickly, so be sure to start your search early.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s a good idea to check its location in relation to your university campus and local amenities. If you can walk to most things, this will be the cheapest and healthiest way of getting around. It’s also worth checking that any accommodation you’re considering is near a dependable public transport route, such as buses and trams.

Student accommodation provides a diverse community with a wide range of skills and talents. Engage in skill-sharing initiatives where residents can teach and learn from one another. Organize workshops, classes, or mentorship programs where residents can share their expertise in areas such as cooking, music, art, or sports. By participating in skill-sharing initiatives, you foster a sense of community, encourage lifelong learning, and create opportunities for personal and skill development within your living environment.

Cheylesmore is a desirable neighborhood for students seeking a more suburban living experience while still being within reach of Coventry’s educational institutions. The area offers a range of housing options, including shared houses and private rentals. Cheylesmore benefits from excellent transport links, with bus routes connecting it to the city center and the universities. Students can find supermarkets, shops, and local amenities within walking distance. The neighborhood is also home to the picturesque War Memorial Park, offering a serene green space for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Stoke is an attractive area for students, particularly those attending Coventry University, as it is situated adjacent to the university’s main campus. The neighborhood offers a mix of purpose-built student accommodations and private rentals. Stoke boasts a lively atmosphere, with a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants catering to student needs. The area is well-connected by public transport, with bus routes providing easy access to other parts of the city. The nearby Coventry Canal offers a scenic walking and cycling route, adding to the appeal of the neighborhood.

Some private landlords offer storage for students who want to leave their belongings behind after the end of their tenancy. This can be a good option if you’re thinking of staying on for a second or third year, as it means you can avoid the hassle of moving all your stuff again.

Most landlords who offer student housing will be happy to keep students in the same property for the duration of their degree, assuming they’re good tenants! This is a great way to save on moving costs and it can often be cheaper than renting a new flat each year.

It’s worth remembering that most landlords will advertise their properties by the number of bedrooms, rather than per month or week. This is because they’ll need to show that their rental is competitive in comparison with other similar properties. However, it’s important to calculate the monthly rate before committing to any rental agreement.