If you’re making a house-viewing, you’ll probably bump into the current tenants. This is an excellent way to get impartial advice and opinions on the accommodation, house or halls.
They’ll also be able to provide you with information that the letting agency or landlord can’t, as chances are, they have never actually lived in the house.
Here are the top questions current student tenants:
How safe is it?
Ask them about walking home in the dark, neighbours, and if they’ve had anything stolen from them. There’s no point in moving into somewhere that you won’t feel safe in.
Ask about the locks on the doors, and gates and how often they feel less than 100% safe. It’s not just about when you’re living at the property, but about leaving the property safe over holiday times and Christmas break.
How close is public transport?
You’ll need somewhere close to bus routes, train stations or the metro/underground. If your commute to University or your work is super long, it might not be worth the money. Also, consider the costs of public transport, and if you’ll save money renting somewhere closer in the long-run.
Sometimes its not that easy to find the perfect accommodation that’s in walking distance from the University.
What are the neighbours like?
This is really down to personal preference for you. Some students are reticent and would fit right into a street with working professionals.
However, if you’re planning on playing music loudly, or hosting parties, you might want to stay away from these types of streets. Trust us, it will only lead to problems down the road, even if the house is amazing!
Of course, it works both ways; if you find out that your neighbours host loud parties, and you like quiet nights, it might not be the house for you.
What is the landlord really like?
Are they professional, will they help you with maintenance issues? Are they good with communication and have fast responses? This is an added sense of security that you want to make sure you have.
Ask the current tenants if they have had any problems with their landlord.
Is the house/flat worth the rent?
Your landlord or agent will keep telling you it’s a great deal, but current/past tenants will be able to tell you the truth. Find out if the rent is reasonable, and if they would live in the house again. Check out reviews from previous tenants on Resooma where they are available.
It’s vital that you get your money’s worth, and don’t have any other stresses during a time filled with very new experiences in your life. It can be tough on a number of front, hence why we aim to make your lives easier with Resooma Bills.
You can find contact details for your tenants from the landlord, or ask them when you go for a house viewing. We highly recommend that everybody takes the time to quiz current tenants, it’s the best way to find out the truth.
Remember, landlords have one job; to sell. Tenants have a much more objective and honest outlook, don’t be afraid to pick their brains.