So, you’re going back to University (or starting as a fresher) in September and you’re looking for somewhere to live. That’s a big deal. You may have not lived anywhere outside of the family home or your home country, so what you want and need from your new student pad might be a mystery to you. However, we’re here to guide you through the 8 most important features to look for before signing on the dotted line for your new apartment.

1. Connectivity

We’re guessing that over the last 12 months you’ve experienced the ‘you cut out there’ bad connection scenario, as we’ve all relied on our devices & internet more than ever. This is why superfast Wi-Fi is top of the list. Keeping in touch with friends and family whenever you like is essential as a student.

2. Fully Furnished

Why spend a tonne of money buying furniture when you don’t know where you’ll be living this time next year? Trust us, you’re going to want to be having a good time and studying hard, not stressing about missing a sofa delivery. That’s why it’s so much easier to live somewhere that’s fully furnished.

3. Great Locations

You really don’t want to be spending what’s left of your student loan on transport or wasting time by leaving for lectures or nights out an hour early. When apartment hunting, make sure you look at how close your accommodation is to your campus & other student facilities such as shops and the nightlife.

4. Facilities

Keeping your mind and body healthy whilst at uni is a must. To make sure you’re giving yourself and your brain a break from studying, look for buildings that have communal facilities you can use. Whether it’s co-working spaces to chill out in and write your dissertation, or a gym where you can de-stress and beat your personal bests, top quality facilities are what you should be on the lookout for.

5. High-quality Appliances

We’ve all heard the horror stories about microwaves exploding, leaks coming through the ceiling or accommodation having mould issues. Steer well clear of this type of housing, as you need somewhere reputable that is going to keep the building and its residents safe. Also, you’ll now be cooking for yourself, and you can’t learn to do that with rubbish equipment.

6. Onsite Maintenance Team

Not always the top of the list when searching for an apartment but having access to an onsite maintenance team is essential. If you do happen to have a minor disaster occur, you want to be able to have it repaired as fast as possible, and not waiting for a guy to come out and fix it whilst you’ve been showering at your friend’s apartment. An on-site team will come and look at the problem on the day you report it and get it sorted as soon as they can; that’s the kind of service you’re after.

7. Dedicated Property Manager

Again, probably not always a priority amongst apartment hunters, but you should definitely choose a property with a designated property manager. Instead of calling a random 0800 number and speaking with a faceless call centre voice, chat with a dedicated property manager who can discuss any concerns or queries with you, over and over, whose name and contact details are saved in your phone. At the end of the day, you’re parting with a decent amount of money, so you definitely deserve to feel like you’re the priority.

8. Secure Entry

We’re ending on a biggie, so we hope you’re still taking notes! Make sure you’re looking for a property that has a totally secure entrance. You may be living alone, so even more reason to take your personal safety seriously and no more losing your keys.

If you’re looking for somewhere that offers all of the above, you’re in luck. We’re proud to say all of our apartments deliver this and much, much more.

If you’re interested in renting with us for the coming academic year, then you’ve made a great choice. We would love to talk you through our available apartments & their locations, so please get in touch with our lettings team. If you’re already a resident of ours and want to rebook, you’re more than welcome – just let us know.