If you are starting to explore accommodation options for the next academic year, you may have considered private rented accommodation. Whether you plan to leave halls or would like to find a new house share, the private housing market may seem daunting, so here are five top tips to help you get started:
- Make a budget
Find out how much you can afford. A room in a student house in Southampton can cost about £360 per month, and about £400 per month in Winchester. Read your contract so you know what is included in the monthly rent and what is not – for example, gas, water, electricity, internet connection and a TV license. - Check out SASSH
SASSH is the official University of Southampton and Solent University accommodation search engine for private rented options. Designed for students, it gives you free access to a supply of high quality, safe accommodation across the whole of Southampton including student houses, flats and lodgings. - Negotiate
This ‘Save the Student’ article encourages students to negotiate and to do it often. For example, if you ask to reduce your rent by as little as £5 each month, you could save an extra £60 by the end of the year. You can also ask the landlord to halve the summer rent or end the lease early if you do not need a room from July to September. - Take your time
Do not feel pressured to make decisions quickly. You do not need to commit straight away, and it is better to be confident in your decision than tied to a legal contract you do not want. - Know your rights as a tenant
Check out SUSU’s housing support guides for everything from housing deposits to contract checklists and seek their expert support if you need it.
Remember, you are never alone
The Student Hub is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and are your first point of contact for any questions or concerns relating to fees, financial support, accommodation, wellbeing, disability, careers and course administration. You can speak to an advisor instantly via online chat, by email, or call at any hour on 02380 599 599.
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