What to Look for in Your First Student House-Must-haves vs nice-to-haves, viewing tips, and practical decision-making.

What to Look for in Your First Student House – Must-haves vs Nice-to-haves, Viewing Tips, and Practical Decision-making

Finding your first student house is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel daunting. With so many student accommodation options on the market, it’s easy to be drawn in by stylish interiors or glossy photographs. While appearance matters, making the right choice is about much more than how a place looks. You need to think about safety, comfort, and whether the property will help you get the most out of your time at university.

At Orange Student Properties, we specialise in helping students secure their ideal student rentals. Below, we’ll guide you through the essentials, the extras, and the practical steps you can take to make an informed decision.

Must-haves in a Student House

The must-haves are the features that will make your student property liveable and functional on a day-to-day basis. Without them, you may find yourself dealing with constant frustration or unexpected costs.

Safety and Security

A safe environment is non-negotiable. Look for secure locks on doors and windows, a working smoke alarm system, aswell as a carbon monoxide detector. Well-lit entrances and, where possible, a burglar alarm provide extra reassurance.

Adequate Heating and Insulation

Student budgets can be tight, so efficient heating and insulation are crucial to keeping bills manageable. Ask about the age and condition of the boiler, check for double glazing, and feel for draughts around doors and windows.

Sufficient Space

Make sure the property offers enough space for studying, relaxing, and storing your belongings. Each bedroom should be large enough for a bed, desk, wardrobe, and shelving.

Functional Kitchen and Bathroom

A good kitchen will have enough storage, a cooker, fridge-freezer, and washing machine in good working order. Bathrooms should be clean, ventilated, and free from mould.

Nice-to-haves in a Student House

Once the essentials are ticked off, you can consider features that add convenience or make your life more enjoyable.

• Modern décor and furnishings – A freshly decorated property can make a huge difference to how inviting it feels.

• Outdoor space – A garden, terrace, or balcony can be great for socialising or relaxing.

• High-speed internet – While broadband is a must for most students, some properties will offer faster or more reliable connections than others.

• Extra appliances – A dishwasher or tumble dryer may not be essential, but they can save time and effort.

Viewing Tips

When viewing student accommodation, it’s important to stay focused on both the practical and the structural details.

1. Take your time – Don’t rush through the viewing. Make sure everything is in good condition.

2. Look for signs of damp – Check walls and ceilings for any patches, peeling paint, or musty smells.

3. Ask about bills – Understand what’s included in the rent and what you’ll need to budget for separately.

4. Consider your commute – Even if you love the house, think about how far it is from campus, shops, and transport links.

5. Ask lots of questions – Have a listen of questions to take with you

Practical Decision-making

Choosing your first student rental should be a balance between your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. Start by making a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves, then compare each property against it. Remember, compromise is often necessary – a slightly longer commute might be worth it for lower rent, or a smaller bedroom might be acceptable if the shared spaces are generous and well-kept.

Where possible, speak to current or previous tenants to get an honest view of what it’s like to live there. And never feel pressured into signing a tenancy agreement on the spot – it’s a significant commitment, so take the time you need to be sure.

Final Thoughts

Your first student house will be the backdrop to some of your most memorable university experiences, so it’s worth taking the time to choose wisely. By knowing what’s essential, recognising what’s just nice to have, and approaching viewings with a critical eye, you can find student accommodation that’s safe, comfortable, and right for you.

At Orange Student Properties, we’re here to make the process straightforward, offering quality student properties that meet high standards for comfort and safety. If you’re ready to start your search, get in touch today – and take the first step towards finding a place you’ll be proud to call home.