Choosing the Right Letting Agent or Landlord as a Student in Loughborough

More money is being invested in student accommodation, especially the purpose-built student accommodation.
These are buildings specifically designed for students. However, many local landlords or letting agents are still available in all areas of the university.

You have many options for student accommodation in your area. How can you decide which one is right?
What are your Student Needs?

My first step is to identify what Loughborough University accommodation you desire. This can vary, but it’s important to know the following:

Number of beds
Location
Price
Included in the bill
Extras

Beds – Many agents and landlords want the houses to go to a group, as they know they’ll get on well.

It all comes down to where you live. It’s entirely up to you.

Price – What price range can you afford?

Bills included. Although it might cost more, you don’t have the responsibility of fixing it or arguing with your housemates.

You can also get free breakfasts, gyms and movies in student accommodation. Which do you desire most?
You are looking for student accommodation

Once you begin your search, save all the houses, studios, and properties that meet your criteria and go to see them.

I don’t believe there is such a thing as too much viewing. Although you can view the same house several times, it’s still worth seeing it at least twice.

The general rule is that you spend about 15 minutes in the house, decide to like it, book it, and then never see it again, until you move into it again.

You can build up a picture of what makes a good student home and what doesn’t. It will help you understand what a good landlord/agent does, and how it acts.

It may seem strange at first but it becomes much easier the more you do it. The downside is that this will take longer than booking the first house. This will make it seem like more people have already booked their dream homes, while you still search for yours.
Viewings – What You Can Do

It is important to view the property in order to choose the best student accommodation. These are some suggestions for what you need to do when you visit a student accommodation in order to ensure that it is right for you.

Questions are not stupid. Viewing the video will clarify any doubts you may have.
Take a look in all the bedrooms.
So you are able to ask questions, make sure you have reviewed their tenancy agreement
The quality of the house, its cleanliness and overall maintenance are important.
Photographs and videos are great for remembering the information.

Selecting the Right Landlord or Letting Agent for You as a Student

Sometimes you may find properties with similar landlords or letting agencies. How do you choose the right one for you

There are certain points that I consider essential and then there are additional points which are desirable.

Communication – It doesn’t need to look fancy or involve lots of dancing and singing. As long as it is communicating. WhatsApp, email and portals are all acceptable!
Maintenance – There are many priorities that can be set for repairs. However, they all must be done and not left to linger for a year.
Property management and rental should reflect the tenant more than its landlord.
Systems and processes – Simple, straightforward and easy to understand. These rules apply to things like deposits. However, it will give an idea of how students are treated.
Experiential – What experiences do they offer students who book with their company? This doesn’t mean that they have to offer freebies every week. They can do the very simple things very well. But, what experience do they give their students? And how much effort did they put into it.
Storage – A desk, chair and bedside draws are all you need. Although everyone will have their own preferences, a clothes rack or wardrobe is the best place to keep clothes. You don’t have to buy draws for your room.
Inspections – While they might be annoying for students, this is a sign the agent and landlord take it seriously. They are also looking out for damages and repairs which is a good sign.

If you live in purpose-built student accommodation, make sure you look at the communal areas.

Also, be sure to check the room’s size and storage. You might find some rooms very small with not enough storage space.

These are some nice extras that you might like to have.

Freebies – Although not necessary, these can be very helpful. However, please remember to look at the benefits they provide and not just what you get free. Cashback is included.

What can you do to get rid of a house

Along with listing the great points, I thought it would also be useful to offer a list that might prompt you to do further research on whether or not this is a good decision.

Things I am careful about

They offer very high incentives. While they are not doing it to be kind, they do want students in their rooms. An excessively high price would cause me to dig a little deeper.
Consistent & Bad News – There is no way to please everyone. If you see lots of bad press about the quality and housing, then it’s worth doing more research.
Quality – If I see a house that isn’t in good condition, has furniture that is damaged or the interior looks old, then I would consider buying more.

You can also observe the manner in which the agent or landlord acts. Many are very relaxed and friendly. Be cautious if they insist on you booking and keep pushing for it. They may claim they can go fast, but they’re not lying.