When To Start Looking For Uni Accommodation – With the current academic year seemingly only just beginning, it might seem early to think about where you’ll live next year, but now is actually the ideal time to start planning for next year. Finding the right student housing can be competitive, and securing a good spot early ensures you’ll have a place that suits your needs. For first-year students navigating the housing market can be overwhelming, so here’s some guidance on when and why to start looking for next year’s accommodation.
Why You Should Start Looking Early
- Secure the Best Locations
Plymouth, like most university towns, has a high demand for quality student accommodation. The best locations—those closest to the university, shops, and other amenities—tend to go fast. If you wait too long, you might find that prime spots within walking distance of campus are already taken. By looking early, you’ll have more choices and a better chance of finding a place that’s just a few minutes away from campus, like our properties, which are all within a 5-minute walk of the University of Plymouth.
- More Time to Decide on Housemates
For many first-year students, moving out of halls and into shared housing is a big change. It’s important to give yourself enough time to decide on who you want to live with, as housemate dynamics can make a huge difference to your living experience. Starting your search early gives you time to find housemates who match your lifestyle and study habits, so you can avoid rushing into arrangements that might not work out.
- Avoid the Last-Minute Rush
As the academic year progresses, more students start looking for accommodation, and properties fill up quickly. By spring, many of the best options are already taken, and you may end up with limited choices if you wait too long. Starting early allows you to avoid the rush and find a place you’re truly happy with, rather than settling for what’s left.
When to Start Looking for Accommodation
The best time to start looking is between November and February. Many letting agencies and landlords open up their properties for the following academic year around this time, so you’ll have access to the widest range of options.
- November to December: Some properties may already be listed for the next academic year, and this is a good time to get a feel for what’s available and start discussing your options with friends.
- January to February: This is peak time for viewing and securing accommodation. By this point, you should have a good idea of your budget, who you’ll be living with, and any other requirements.
Tips for Finding the Right Accommodation
For first-year students, moving into private housing can feel daunting. Here are some tips to ensure you make the best choice:
- Decide on Your Priorities
Think about what’s most important to you in a home. Do you want to live close to campus, or would you prefer a quieter area? Are you looking for a large communal space, or do you prefer more privacy? For example we offer a variety of options, from one-bedroom apartments for those who value independence to larger houses that can accommodate groups of friends. Knowing your priorities will help narrow down your options.
- Look for All-Inclusive Rent
Managing separate bills can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time living independently. All-inclusive rent simplifies your budgeting by covering utilities like electricity, water, heating, and internet in one payment. All of our properties come with all-inclusive rent, so you won’t have to worry about fluctuating bills or splitting utilities with housemates.
- Make Sure Internet Speeds Meet Your Needs
With online classes, research, and streaming, internet speed is essential. High-speed internet, like our Virgin Voom packages ensures you won’t have any issues with slowdowns or connectivity, even if multiple housemates are online at once.
- Visit the Property in Person if Possible
Seeing a property in person gives you a better sense of the space, amenities, and surrounding area. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions about things like maintenance, security, and tenancy terms. If you’re considering any of our properties, we encourage you to book a viewing to ensure it meets all your expectations.
- Consider the Length of the Tenancy
Some student accommodations offer flexible lease terms, which can be beneficial if you only need housing for part of the year. Before signing a lease, make sure the tenancy length aligns with your academic calendar to avoid paying for extra months you don’t need.
Accommodation Advice for First-Year Students
If you’re moving out of halls and into private accommodation for the first time, here are some specific tips to keep in mind:
- Budget Wisely: Set a realistic budget for both rent and living expenses, and look for accommodation that fits within it. All-inclusive rent can make budgeting easier by covering utilities, and Student Rooms 4 U offers a range of options to suit different budgets.
- Find a Reliable Letting Agent or Landlord: Student-specific letting agents, like Student Rooms 4 U, understand the needs of students and can provide reliable support. A responsive maintenance team and clear, fair contracts are essential when moving into private housing.
- Plan for Communal Living: If you’re sharing a house, make sure to discuss house rules with your housemates. Deciding on things like cleaning responsibilities and quiet hours in advance can help avoid conflicts and make your living environment more comfortable.
- Ask About Security and Maintenance: Feeling safe in your home is essential. Choose properties that have secure locks, lighting, and good support for any maintenance issues. Student Rooms 4 U has a dedicated maintenance team and an easy way for you to reach out if you need assistance.
Securing your student accommodation early gives you the peace of mind of knowing you have a comfortable, well-located home waiting for you next year. By planning ahead, you’ll have more options, less stress, and more time to focus on what really matters—enjoying university life. Student Rooms 4 U provides a variety of high-quality, all-inclusive properties close to the University of Plymouth, designed with students’ needs in mind. Start your search early to find the perfect place to make your next academic year memorable and successful.
