Looking for shared accommodation can be a daunting task but by identifying a few simple tips, it will make this job much easier for yourself, you will also benefit from the results in the long term.

Before Starting

Many applications for shared accommodation will involve filling in an application so that you get the best suited options.  Take your time and ensure that it is 100% correct and thought about, this will then make it easier when deciding which property to go for.

Don’t be Boring!

A common mistake is often at the description section of the application, you need to sell yourself as much as possible.  Someone will actually be reading your application and if they feel you will not be suitable – they won’t take it any further.  Just make sure you stand out from the crowd.

Include a Picture

It can help if you include a picture on your profile, this will enable the other person to get a vague idea of the type of person you are.  It won’t hurt in any way so if you are looking for the most responses you should always include a picture.

Understand the Terminology

The most common mistake is the word “double room”, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s for two people; this could cause problems if you are a couple who have just taken on a double room for you both.  Ensure that you understand what you are getting before you take it any further, try our Glossary to find meanings to the terms that you don’t understand.

Viewing the Property

If you have managed to get past the first stage you will then be asked to take a look at the property to see what it is like.  It can help if you take a friend along because it’s not only safer but it helps to get an idea from a third party of what they think.

The Day of the Move

Once you have found the perfect property, make sure you know what it needed for the day of move.  Ensure you understand what you need to do in order to make the process as smooth as possible.

There are a number of reasons why people choose to share accommodation as opposed to buying or renting a flat or house on their own.  The main benefits of house or flat sharing are the financial savings.

Shared Accommodation versus Buying a House or Flat

Although flat and house prices have dropped during the recession and are now gradually starting to increase again, they are still generally very expensive and out of reach of people trying to get on the property ladder for the first time.

Flatshares and Houseshares can be a solution for young friends wanting to attain a property; they could purchase a flat or house together and rent out the spare rooms to bring in an extra income to cover payments such as the mortgage, council tax and utilities.  Sometimes renting out the property you own and live in, could be enough to cover the cost of the mortgage.  Home owners can also be eligible for the Rent a Room Scheme which is a government initiative to encourage renting out spare rooms.

Accommodation rentals can be a great way for young people to get on the property ladder without it costing an arm and a leg!

Shared Accommodation versus Individually Renting a House or Flat

For someone to rent a property on their own or even with a friend can still be very expensive as there are additional costs on top of paying the rent such as council tax and utility bills.  Shared accommodation splits these costs between the number of people that are living in the property.

House shares for students are probably the most cost effective means of living whilst at university.

The secret of shared housing and flats are to do your research!  Research flat and house shares in the city which you want to live and then try to meet the existing flat mates or house mates when visiting the property.