Going to university is a massive change to your life. Not only are you moving into the last stage of education but a lot of students move out of their family home for the first time, and into student accommodation. Both can be extremely daunting and unless you are extremely laid back, stress can creep up on with everything that is changing in your life. Below I have included some tips that will help you search for your new place as you embark on the first building block towards your career.

Google Search

Like everything, start with google. Once you know which university you are going to, Google will put you in the right direction when it comes to private student renting or university halls. A major bonus is generally there tends to be reviews from previous tenants. This will give you an idea of the experiences they have had and whether some opportunities may be better than others.

Student Forums

All social media sites have specified groups or forums for new, current and former students to chat. The likelihood is, this is where you will get the biggest insight into student accommodation. When it comes to student accommodation in Melbourne for example, they have a vast array of student forums based directly on the accommodation and unlike reviews, you can open and start a conversation rather than just reading about the feedback.

Speaking to your University

When you are accepted to a Uni, you will be given a lot of information about your course, campus, rules and also accommodation. Even if your university doesn’t have onsite residency, speaking to them can be very useful, even if it’s just for their contacts alone. A lot of universities tend to partner up with estate agents or landlords and they can look to pass on contact information or contact them for you.

Estate Agents

Estate agents seem like the most logical step at times. If you do want to contact an estate agent, do a bit of research first. Not all estate agents deal within student accommodation but for example with student accommodation in Melbourne there are agents that specialise in the matter. Speak to them directly whether it being over the phone, on webchat or in person.

Student Accommodation Websites

Like everything, there is nothing better than a website that can give you all the information you need. Student accommodation websites are no different. Compare them, see what they offer and how they can make your life easier. A great thing about the sites is that they also give upfront fees/prices or what will happen if your circumstances change. It is really important that you have this information as it’s probable that there will be deposits involved and potential rental cancellation fees. Don’t jump into anything unless you are sure you know what you are getting into.

House Share

It’s not a hidden fact that money can get a little tight whilst going through uni. To combat this make sure you look into house sharing with other students. Not only is this a great way to bring down rental pricing but it’s a great way to get that university experience and make new friends along the way.

Try out all of these options in order to find yourself the very best student accommodation.