What should be the first step?
We would suggest that you start by working out the size of your group. Is it just you, looking for a private apartment? Are you part of a larger group? Or are you looking to buddy up and need help finding the right property?
Once you have decided then you can start to look.
How to find the right ‘Home from Home’
Some agents, like ourselves, often work on recommendations from other students. However, if you are not sure then searching online via Rightmove or Zoopla can generally get you in front of the right properties. Spend time looking at the adverts, read the descriptions and check out any other information on ones that may be of interest (for example 3D Tours or Videos).
Read the costings thoroughly. Are bills included? If not can you get a bills inclusive package? What about cleaning, who is responsible? These are all important things to consider.
Remember….Not all agents are the same. Make sure that all charges are transparent.
Ready to view?
When viewing the property get your whole group together. This saves time in re-visiting and the possibility of missing out through any delays.
If the current tenants are there why not ask them about their experience.
Only view properties that have everything you need as this will save time and disturbance for the tenants.
How to reserve your property
Speak with us and ask any questions to make sure that you have covered everything. Work as a group to put together a list of questions.
We will then send you an email with the ’Next Steps’ you need to follow. This will normally mean that you have to supply a list of names, contact details and information about your guarantors. At this point you will be asked to pay the equivalent of one weeks rent as a holding deposit. You will be sent a receipt that needs to be signed. Once signed we will start the referencing and aim to have this completed within seven days.
What is a guarantor?
A guarantor is someone who is happy to be liable for your rent if you are unable to pay. Generally, a guarantor would be in full time employment with a reasonable credit history. Overseas guarantors can be used in some cases.
Signing your contract (assured shorthold tenancy agreement)
Once referencing has been passed you will be sent your tenancy agreement for checking and signing. This is legally binding and once signed your tenancy will start on the agreed date. In most cases all tenants and their guarantors need to sign. It is at this point that you should have paid the balance of your deposit and this will be registered.
Why is the rent sometimes reduced in the summer months?
In some cases the first 8 weeks rent are reduced. The reason for this is that landlords use this period to carry out any repairs and maintenance. Generally, the properties are not occupied during this time although you will be able to store your belongings should you wish.
How do I collect my keys?
At the point of move in we always prefer to meet at your new home. This way we can run through how things work and help you familiarise yourselves with the property.
An inventory will have been produced prior to your move in. This will details the condition of the property, room by room, and also any furnishings. You will have seven days to check this and highlight anything that may have been missed, after which you will be asked to sign it.
What happens next?
We love to communicate via WhatsApp and will invite you to be part of the group for your home. We use this to communicate messages or need for access and likewise you can report any issues. At around twelve weeks from move in we will arrange to visit you and check everything is good and run through any questions you may have.
At nine months we will visit again, during this visit we will be discussing your future plans, are you looking to stay on for another year or longer? If you have finished your studies and looking to leave at the end of the tenancy then we will discuss the checkout procedure and explain what is expected when handing the property back.
Deposit Registration
During your application or after move in your deposit will be registered with a deposit scheme. We use ‘MyDeposits’ custodial scheme and do not hold tenants money in our account. A deposit certificate will be issued for you to sign and retain.
Rent Payments
The agreed rent must be paid and cleared in our account on or before the due date. Rents may be monthly or quarterly to fall in line with any student finance.
Deposit Deductions
Once you have vacated the property we will enter and produce a check out report. We do not request any deposit deductions unless absolutely necessary. We do allow a certain amount of wear and tear and work with you during your tenancy to advise of anything that is potentially a problem. In any case you have the opportunity to rectify any issues before deductions are made.
How do I pay for my utility charges?
Depending on the agreement that you have signed, some include utility charges and some do not. Where bills are not included we are happy to help you in setting up your own accounts. If you are on a bill inclusive package then this will be arranged via Unihomes.
In some cases the landlords may offer a bills inclusive option. These will be clear in the tenancy agreement and may have a fair usage policy.
Council Tax
Full time students are exempt from paying council tax. You will still be contacted by the council and will need to get confirmation of your student status from your university. Anyone who is living in the property and not a full time student will render the property liable for council tax.