There are many choices when it comes to picking your next student accommodation Leicester:
These generally depend on the place you’d like to reside in, the people you’d like to be living with (or with whom you do not want to) and the amount you’d like to spend.
It could be that you are thinking of moving into a house with a group of acquaintances, or have already decided you want some tranquility. No matter what you’re looking for, the right place will be there.
We’ve collected some pros and cons of the major kinds of student housing available:
Private Flats
House Shares
Halls of Residences
Resident Landlords.
Private Flats
For many, this is the holy grail of student living. A private apartment, where you can have all the freedom that comes with living in a space that is yours to yourself. No mess in the bathroom or kitchen (or perhaps that there is no mess to be found). Also, no one is going to disturb you at the end of the night to attend ‘band practice’ in the living room.
The drawbacks of this kind of home are that it’s pricey. A one-bedroom apartment could end up being quite expensive, especially in the bigger cities and the most sought-after areas! But a good deal can be found, especially if you are willing to sacrifice a little in terms of location.
They also are less social than living in a communal house. The reason is simple – having smaller numbers of people living in the home means that there’s fewer people planning nights out going to the cinema or cooking home meals. It’s not that a private flat equals no fun – but spur of the moment events are going to be less likely.
Pros: Privacy and independence Your own space No messy flatmates
Cons: More expensive, Less sociable
House Shares
By far the most popular option for students is a house share (or flat share). There are many primary reasons why this is. They’re usually a lower cost option than renting your own house. They split the cost of rent, bills and even food expenses. Most houses offer cheap and many will provide each occupant with their own space. Also, there is a higher feeling of independence and independence than you get with private halls.
As a result of this setup this arrangement, the house is shared. This is potentially great news in terms of socializing and lets you move in with friends. However, it will also mean more washing up, and plenty of hair that gets stuck in the shower hole. It’s a shared responsibility , too, which could be great, as long as everyone pulls their responsibility.
Pros: More social, less expensive than a private space, More freedom than halls, Ability to live with your friends
Cons: More people to organise Commonly, shared kitchens and bathrooms. It can be messier… very quickly
Resident Landlords
You may also have the option of residing with a landlord who is a resident. Effectively this means that you’ll be renting a space in the same house that the landlord also lives. In this case your landlord could also be your house mate. This could be an excellent alternative for you. Rent is generally in line with the amount you pay for a shared home. But the experience can be heavily affected by how well you work with your landlord.
It is unlikely that they are a university student themselves So they might not be the biggest supporter of you inviting your friends round late at night for example. However, on the other side to this you might prefer the idea of keeping your house a bit of a haven far from the crowds.
Advantages: Cheaper than renting a private apartment, Less chaotic than you share a room with other university students.
Cons: Less freedom, Will likely have to adhere to house rules
Residential Halls for Private Residences
In some universities, the majority of students start their university years in university halls of residence. These can vary in design and amenities based on the university in question. But, they’re usually an excellent mix of study, social activities and convenience. When the time arrives to leave university halls, a possible option would be to move into private halls of residences. In a lot of ways they are very similar to the halls you have at your university.
They have a community of students from the university living close together. Everyone has individual rooms and plenty of common space to work and hang out. In most cases, they provide ‘flats’ in the halls, where there is a private room however, you share a kitchen with other students. However, there are several advantages of opting for a private halls.
Private halls typically have bathrooms with en suites, higher quality communal areas, they may also have an exercise room, concierge service, or even a cafe. They are higher than the typical house share , but they usually include all your bills when you cost of rent. Private halls are usually located in prime locations too and are a huge benefit, especially in the larger cities. They’re an excellent option if you are seeking your own space and freedom and want the extra amenities as well as having neighbors who are like you.
Pros: High-end, Private rooms often with en-suite, Students living with their neighbors, well-maintained communal areas
Cons Costs: Higher than a shared home, More freedom than your own home
At the end of the day, the style of accommodation you choose to stay in will be largely dependent on your personal preferences. Always remember, it’s an excellent idea to take considered all alternatives. Find out what’s available in your area before you start thinking about what you’re looking for in the search for the perfect home.