Before you head off to college you need to organize where you’re going to stay. Some students can stay at home as they live close to the campus but there are others who need someplace else to lay their head. When it comes to finding the right student housing you need to consider a few factors. These factors are:
What’s Included in the Cost
Some houses will come with the internet and the bills included whereas some won’t. Some houses will come complete with a washing machine and a dishwasher, others will expect you to visit a laundromat and wash your dishes by hand.
If it’s important to you that you have access to WiFi (and chances are it is), you’ll want to ensure it’s included in the price. Some houses also include a games room or even a gym but that could mean you’ll end up sharing with a bunch of people.
The Location
Would you be happy for your student housing to be located pretty close to the college? Or would you prefer if you were 10 minutes away? Do you want to be in the center of town or are you happy to stay anywhere?
When it comes to searching for the right student housing you’ll need to make sure you can get to and from college easily.
Don’t forget to work out whether living 10 minutes away by car is worth the money you’ll spend traveling to college. It might be cheaper to live across the street and walk to your classes.
Make sure that there’s a supermarket nearby and a doctor’s office. Consider all of those things you’d want nearby and whether your chosen location offers them.
Who You’ll be Sharing the Accommodation With
Are you happy to share your housing with 4 other students or do you want to live by yourself? Could you put up with sharing the housing with just one person or are you a ‘The more the merrier’ type?
When you’re looking for somewhere to live you’ll need to think about how many people you’ll be happy to live with. Your budget might well affect this so you may have to compromise.
What you’ll Need to Take with you
Will you need to go out and buy plates and bowls along with cutlery or will this be supplied? What about bed sheets? Will you need to bring your own or are they also supplied?
Find out what you need to bring with you so you can start getting yourself prepared. Be mindful that some student housing could be more expensive than others if all you need to bring is yourself and your clothes. Work out whether it’s offering you good value for money.
Considering all of the above factors can help you to find the right student housing for you. Try not to snap up the first place you see unless it offers you everything you need. Remember, you’re going to be spending the next few years living in student housing so it’s important you chose somewhere ideal.
image credit: Student Housing via GaudiLab/shutterstock