How to Prepare for a Student House Viewing
When looking through different options for student accommodation in London, you may have to view some properties in person to be sure you’re getting what was advertised.
For international students, especially those relocating to the UK, this process can feel overwhelming. There are so many factors to consider, such as location, safety, amenities, and overall comfort.
However, a student house viewing is your opportunity to ensure the property meets your expectations and aligns with your lifestyle. In this post, we will show you how to prepare for it.
Key Takeaways
Look up the property details and research the neighbourhood for safety and convenience.
Prepare a list of important questions to ask the landlord or agent during the viewing.
Carefully inspect the property’s cleanliness, security features, and overall functionality.
Check transport links, nearby amenities, and the distance to your university. Take notes and photos of the property to help you compare options later.
You can find the best private student housing in the UK on Student Luxe. Explore a wide range of luxury apartments located near the most iconic universities like LSE, KCL, Imperial College, etc. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.
6 Tips to Prepare for Student Apartment Viewing
Here are six tips to help you choose the right student apartment when you are ready to start looking.
Research the property and area in advance
Before attending a house viewing, gather as much information as possible about the property and its location. Start by reviewing the online listing carefully. Note key details such as the monthly rent, included utilities, and amenities like Wi-Fi, heating, or furnished spaces.
Next, research the area where the property is located. Look into the neighbourhood's safety, accessibility, and vibe. Is it close to your university or other essential places, like grocery stores, gyms, or restaurants? For international students, proximity to public transport options, such as bus stops or train stations, can make daily commutes much easier.
2. Create a checklist of what to look for
Having a checklist ensures you don’t miss any critical details during the house viewing. Here are the areas to focus on:
General condition: Check for any visible damage like cracks, stains, or peeling paint on walls and ceilings.
Utilities and appliances: Ensure that essential appliances like the stove, refrigerator, and washing machine are in working order.
Furnishings: Confirm the availability and quality of furniture such as a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe.
Safety features: Look for secure door locks, functional smoke alarms, and accessible fire exits.
Heating and water: Test the heating system and water pressure to ensure comfort, especially during winter.
Shared spaces (if any): Inspect common areas like the kitchen and living room for cleanliness and enough space for all tenants.
3. Prepare questions to ask the landlord or agent
Asking the right questions during a house viewing can help you avoid surprises later. Here are some questions to ask a potential landlord:
What’s included in the rent? Clarify whether utilities like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are part of the monthly payment.
How long is the lease term? Ensure it matches the duration of your studies in the UK, or is flexible enough.
What is the deposit amount, and is it refundable? Understand the terms for getting your deposit back at the end of the tenancy.
Who handles maintenance and repairs? Confirm whether the landlord or tenants are responsible for fixing issues.
What’s the policy on guests or overnight stays? Some accommodations have strict rules, so it’s good to know upfront.
Are there any additional fees? Ask about charges like cleaning fees, parking, or late payment penalties.
4. Plan the logistics of the viewing
Start by confirming the date and time with the landlord or agent and save their contact information in case you need to make last-minute changes. Map out your route to the property ahead of time and use navigation apps or public transport planners to find the quickest way there. If you’re visiting multiple properties in one day, plan a logical route to save time and avoid rushing between viewings.
5. Evaluate nearby amenities and transport links
The location of your student accommodation is just as important as the property itself. Take note of essential amenities nearby, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and gyms. Having these conveniences within walking distance can make daily life much easier.
Transport links are another key factor. Check how close the property is to bus stops, train stations, or bike rental services. If you’ll be commuting to university, look up travel times and costs to ensure they fit your schedule and budget. For international students, access to healthcare facilities and international supermarkets can also be important.
6. Take notes and photos
It's easy to get caught up in the excitement during the viewing, so it’s essential to document your thoughts and observations. Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down key points about each property, from its overall condition to specific details like the size of rooms or the quality of appliances.
Photos are equally important. Take pictures of different areas, especially ones that stand out to you, whether positive or negative. This visual reference will help you compare properties later, especially if you're viewing several in one day.
Why You Should Consider Luxury Student Housing UK
While standard student housing can be functional, luxury student accommodation offers several benefits that might make your living experience more enjoyable. High-end properties often come with additional perks, such as
fully furnished apartments
modern interiors
exclusive amenities like concierge services, private gyms, and on-site study rooms.
For international students, these luxury accommodations provide added peace of mind with enhanced security features and 24/7 support. Luxury properties are also typically located in prime areas, offering easy access to both your university and popular local attractions.
If you’re looking for a higher standard of living than shared apartments or on-campus accommodations, these luxury options might be the perfect fit. Plus, they often make balancing academic and personal life easier, giving you more time to focus on your studies and enjoy your university experience.
Explore our premium properties near top UK universities, designed specifically for international students.
FAQs
How can I tell if a property is safe?
Check for secure locks, smoke alarms, fire exits, and the general condition of the property. Research the area’s safety and crime rates online.
What should I bring to a student house viewing?
You should bring a notebook, pen, phone, or camera for photos and any questions you’ve prepared for the landlord or agent.
How do I know if a house is close to my university?
Use Google Maps or public transport apps to check the distance and travel times from the property to your university.
About Us
Student Luxe are the preferred choice for guests seeking superior comfort, flexibility & service for their studies - providing some of the most luxurious and private student accommodation UK has to offer.
Most of these apartments are in the best parts of the city, with amazing on-site amenities and flexible booking perks.
If we can assist with your apartment search in any way, please let our experts know.
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