Choosing your first flat is a really big decision so definitely don’t rush it! I’d recommend to start looking at the start of summer since this seems to be when a lot of student flats go back on the market but if you miss it don’t worry, all throughout summer there will be options but look quickly and often to be safe. I’ve made some tips that you should think about when choosing a flat to make sure you enjoy your time living there☺️.
1. Location 📍
This ones so important for a few reasons! Firstly, how close is your work, uni or college for example, if you’re not really close thats fine but consider how accessible and reliable is public transport from where you are. Next, what’s the area like for example is it a peaceful neighbourhood or a busy street in the city, think about what you’re like and if you feel you fit into the area. If you’re moving to Glasgow, I recommend Southside if you’re not keen on living in the city as it’s close enough (also cheaper) and its a similar vibe to the west end (but better in my opinion ;)). This links to the first point but also make sure you’re close to things like supermarkets, gyms, pharmacies and whatever you like to do.
2. Size and layout 🏡
If you’re living with roommates think about the bedrooms, are they all a decent size, is the kitchen big enough for how many of you will be staying there? Also think about what floor you’re on, for example maybe you don’t want to walk up 4 flights of stairs multiple times a day. Also think about if the flats furnished or not! You don’t want to be having to buy loads of furniture especially if it’s only a uni flat and you don’t plan on staying there for the long term.
3. Budget 💷
Set a realistic budget including everything, remember it’s not just rent you’re going to be paying you’ll have deposits, gas and electricity, Wi-Fi, food etc. so if the rent takes up the full budget you might have to rethink this!
4. Terms of the lease 📝
Make sure you’re happy with your landlord, you want to feel secure knowing that if something is wrong with your flat that they’ll deal with it quickly and properly. Think about things like the lease length and notice periods, if you decide you only want to stay for your uni term make sure theres nothing that say minimum stay is maybe a year. Also think about what’s covered by the landlord in terms of repairs and maintenance, it’s also good if they’re efficient, imagine your boiler broke, you want that to be dealt with quickly.
5. Safety 🔐
Feeling safe in your home is so important! Check things like locks to the whole building as well as your own flat. If you’re ground floor flat maybe make sure your windows have locks as well. If you don’t feel safe in the area or specifically your flat you wont be able to feel comfortable so definitely consider this when moving.
Remember, don’t rush choosing your flat! This will be your home for the next while so you want to be happy and comfortable there.
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