News

OUR TIPS FOR HOUSE-HUNTING

Karla Harrison

House-hunting can be a nightmare at the best of times, but when you’re doing it on your own, for the first time, the idea of it can be almost overwhelming. That’s why LX News has come up with some top tips for all of you out there that are struggling at this very hectic time.

1. Don’t panic! There are lots of students all in the exact same situation so try not to jump in head first. Take your time and look around you don’t want to end up overpaying for a property, or even worse, getting a sub-standard property.
2. Help out. If you’re moving in with a group of friends don’t leave it up to one or two of them to do all the work. Remember, they’re just as daunted as you, so offer to shoulder some of the responsibility as this is somewhere you have to live too.
3. Attend Housing Week. Even if you’ve already began browsing, go along on the 4th February and see what else is on offer, you may also want to check out the Liverpool Student Homes website which is full of reputable letting agents, www.lsh.liv.ac.uk
4. Choose your housemates carefully. Make sure you pick the right people as there’s nothing worse than being uncomfortable in your own home.
5. Choose your landlord carefully. Make sure you ask all the relevant questions, such as what the rent is, if there is a summer retainer, what the deposit is etc. If you’re getting a bad vibe from the owner or agent then don’t sign anything without thoroughly thinking it over.
6. Location, Location, Location. Think about the area that you want to live in, whether you want to be close to the university or further away. You might also want to consider the ‘reputation’ of that particular area.

All in all it is important to make the right decision for you. House-hunting is a marathon, not a sprint, so grab your running shoes and get ready to join the race.

Michael Flannery

As the tune of Auld Lang Syne echoes into the distance the dawning reality of a new year is upon us. For some, especially first years who are going into their second, a rather large decision must be made - to live with existing flat mates or not - that is the question. So your first decision is just that! If unsure, the well known sayings ‘better the devil you know’ and ‘the grass isn’t always greener…’ could be utilised to aid the decision making process. Whatever you do though, don’t keep people waiting as you could find yourself left to your own devices!

Once you have decided who to live with, the search for accommodation must begin. There are a variety of Liverpool student housing websites which can be brought up effortlessly with a Google search. Think carefully about which area you would like to be situated in and try to find people who live there already to ask questions, as these people are likely to be more truthful and knowledgeable than an estate agent!

You may now be ready to view. It is important that you approach the viewing well prepared with a list of questions to ask about the accommodation, features, local amenities and most importantly the maintenance of the property, as it has been known for student landlords to take their time to get things fixed! At least one member of the group would be advised to take a pen and some paper

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