Tips for Students Looking for a Rental Property

Congratulations! You’ve been accepted to study in Scotland at one of our major universities or colleges. There must be a never-ending list of things to consider before you start your studies.

Of course, one of the most critical things to consider is accommodation.

Scotland’s vibrant student cities – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, and St Andrews – offer unique housing opportunities, but finding the right place can be a challenge. With steep competition for student rentals, it’s essential to plan ahead and prioritise your needs.

In our latest blog, we help you navigate the market and secure a rental that fits both your lifestyle and budget.

Start Your Search Early

• Timing Matters: Begin searching for accommodation as soon as you have your place confirmed. Popular student cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow often see properties snapped up quickly.
• Use University / College Resources: Check your university or college’s accommodation office or website. They often list trusted landlords, letting agencies, and student-specific housing options.
• Join Online Communities: Social media groups and platforms like Facebook and Reddit often have postings about available rooms or flat shares in your area.

Decide on Your Priorities

Before diving into property listings, narrow down your must-haves:

• Proximity to Campus: Living close to your university saves travel time and costs. If you study in smaller cities like Dundee or St Andrews, most accommodation is within walking distance of campuses.
• Public Transport Links: For cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, strong public transport connections (buses, trains, trams or the subway) are crucial if you’re further from campus.
• Local Amenities: Look for places near supermarkets, cafes and libraries. It’s also a good idea to know where your local GP or pharmacy would be. Being close to social hubs and nightlife might also be important for some.
• Cost vs. Comfort: Striking a balance between affordability and comfort is key. Consider whether you’re willing to pay extra for perks like an en-suite bathroom or utilities included in rent.

Explore Housing Options

Students typically have three main choices for housing:

University-Managed Accommodation:

• Often the easiest option for first-year students.
• Usually located close to campus.
• Comes furnished, with utilities included.

Private Rentals:

• Flats or houses rented directly from landlords or letting agencies.
• Offers more freedom but also requires managing utility bills and other responsibilities.

Flat Shares:

• Splitting rent with other students reduces costs.
• Living with others can help ease homesickness and create social opportunities.

Tips for Viewing and Renting

• Inspect Properties Thoroughly: Check for issues like dampness, proper heating and secure locks. Never agree to rent a place you haven’t seen in person or via a trusted virtual tour.
• Understand Your Lease: Be clear about the terms of your tenancy agreement, including rent payments, deposit protection and notice periods.
• Budget for Extras: Don’t forget about additional costs such as council tax (if you’re not exempt), Wi-Fi and transport expenses.

Make Use of Local Knowledge

• Glasgow: Look for properties around the West End (close to the University of Glasgow) or the city centre (for the University of Strathclyde or Glasgow Caledonian University), with easy subway access.
• Edinburgh: Popular areas for students include Marchmont, Newington and Leith, offering a mix of affordable and trendy accommodations.
• Dundee: Many students settle near the University of Dundee or along the city waterfront.
• St Andrews: Options may be limited and pricier, so consider exploring nearby villages for more affordable choices.

Final Tips

• Be Organised: Keep track of properties you’re interested in and follow up promptly with landlords or letting agents.
• Check Reviews: Online platforms like Trustpilot or Google reviews can offer insights into letting agencies or landlords.
• Stay Safe: Avoid potential scams by sticking to trusted websites and agencies.

With these tips in mind, your search for student housing can be less daunting and more rewarding. Happy house hunting!

Looking for a new rental property? Why not pop in and see us at Dwello? You’ll find us at 117 – 119 Byres Road, Glasgow. Or you can view all of our properties online here.