If it’s your first time house-hunting, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the process. There’s a lot to think about, and everyone that’s sharing the house with you will have their own expectations and priorities. It’s also a lot of pressure, since you don’t want to end up renting a place that you’ll regret later on. The most important part of the process is the viewing, which is usually in a fairly short time frame. So to make sure you’re taking everything into account, here is what to look for in a student house.
Natural Light
Natural light is important to the quality of a home, especially in the darker months. Take note of how many windows there are, as well as their size and placement. South-facing windows are known to let in the most light and heat, which can be very advantageous. Consider where sunlight will come in in the mornings and the evenings.
Appliances
It’s always a good idea to confirm which appliances are included with the house. Items like microwaves, toasters, and kettles are sometimes owned by the tenants, which would mean you would need to buy your own. Ask the letting agent and the tenants if they are available how everything works and if anything has needed to be fixed. Check the lights, plumbing and power outlets to make sure they work.
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Damp and Mould
One of the most important things to factor into what to look for in a student house is damp. Damp and mould are very common issues in student houses, so you’ll want to make sure you know the signs. Pay close attention to the walls and ceilings as you walk around the house to see if you spot any black mould. Give the walls a touch as well to see if they feel damp. Other signs can include significant condensation on windows as well as peeling paint or wallpaper.
Noise Level
This might not be the first thing you think of, but noise can have a significant impact on your experience of living in a house. You may not know from your viewing if there are any noisy neighbors, but listen to see if you can hear loud traffic or construction sounds from inside. These are things that can become tiresome if they are particularly noticeable or consistent throughout the day.
Location
Finally, assess the area where the house is located. Do the houses around you look like they are reasonably well looked after? Does the area seem safe? Are there convenient places to buy groceries and other items nearby? A good house located in a bad area may not be worth it.
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