When you graduate from high school, you might choose to go to college. This is an exciting milestone, filled with anticipation about what the future holds. However, finding the right accommodation can be stressful, especially when where you live (and who you live with) can make or break your college experience. Here are some tips on finding the right accommodation for college.

Finding the Perfect College Accommodation

1. Understand Your Housing Options

Colleges are not “one size fits all,” and the same goes for college accommodation. It can make or break your college experience, depending on where you choose to live. Luckily, there is a whole range of options available for college accommodation.

Dormitories On-Campus

This is the most typical accommodation. Movies are rife with clips of college students moving into dorms and meeting their new roomies. They’re a great way for freshmen to make new friends before they even get to their classes. They’re managed by the universities and colleges, and you’ll find them located on or near the campus. 

 

Downsides are that space is limited, and you might not always get the dorm you want. Some colleges have long waiting lists, so make sure you apply early if you want to secure a spot in a dorm.

Apartments Off-Campus

Another hugely popular college accommodation choice is renting off-campus apartments. For these, you’ll usually rent a room in a house or apartment, usually with other students. (Although that isn’t always the case – you may choose to rent with working professionals or other types of people.) These offer more privacy and independence. Utilities are usually included.

Living at Home

If they’re choosing to study at a local college, some college students may choose to live at home. Although this gives you less independence than moving out, it means you can save money on rent and household bills, meaning you can use those funds for tuition, enjoying the college experience, or even traveling during college breaks. 

2. Set Your Budget

Different accommodations will cost different amounts of money, which is why setting a budget is so important. Here are some things to keep in mind.

  • On-Campus Housing: Prices can vary depending on the institution you’re attending and the type of dorm you want. On-campus housing is typically more expensive than renting an off-campus apartment.
  • Off-Campus Apartments (Solo): Rent for off-campus apartments tends to be lower but will vary based on proximity to campus and the type of accommodation. You’ll usually have to pay for utilities like electricity, internet, and water.
  • Off-Campus Apartments (Roommates): Sharing an apartment with a roommate is one of the best ways to cut down on living costs. Renting a room in a shared flat can be a lot cheaper than renting an entire apartment by yourself, and bills are likely to be included.

3. Find Like-Minded Roommates

Who you live with can make or break your college experience. So many college students have stories of nightmare roommates who eat their food and forget about rent payments. That’s why finding like-minded roommates is so important for creating a happy home. Here are some tips for finding a roommate that suits your lifestyle:

  1. Choose Someone With Similar Habits: Think about your daily routine and what you need from a roommate. Are you an early riser, or do you like to stay up late? Do you need a quiet environment for studying, or are you okay with the occasional house party?
  2. Social Compatibility: You don’t have to be best friends with your roommate, but it’s good to have similar social needs. An introvert may not be happy living with a party animal.
  3. Interests in Common: You might be looking for a friend as well as a roommate – and that’s fine, too. It’s always nice to have a roommate who shares your hobbies and interests, from watching movies and cooking to working out.

Websites like Spare Room can help you find fellow college students who share your interests, making your college experience even better. Filter based on preferences like lifestyle, budget, and even personality traits. This can save you time and help you find a roommate who is a good match.

4. Visit the Property Beforehand

You may be tempted to say yes to the first accommodation option you come across, but that would be a mistake. Photos can hide a multitude of sins. Visit the property before agreeing to put down that deposit. If you can’t visit in person, ask the landlord or property manager for a virtual tour.

Here are some things to look out for:

  • The Condition of the Property: Is everything in working order? (Electricity, gas, water, etc.) Are there any big signs of wear and tear? Is the space clean?
  • Lease Terms: Read the lease agreement before signing. Make sure you understand the rent, deposit requirements, the duration of the lease, and any additional fees. Clarify who is responsible for maintenance and repairs. And ask your parents to look over it, too!
  • Landlord/Property Manager: Meet with the landlord or property manager to get a feel for their personality. A good landlord should be easy to talk to and willing to address any concerns ASAP.

Conclusion

Finding the ideal accommodation for college can seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be an exciting part of your college journey. You need to understand your housing options and set a budget before making any decisions. The main thing is to plan ahead, communicate clearly, and choose a living arrangement that best fits your needs.