House hunting hysteria: what to do and where to start

The first term of the academic year has flown past. You have had a Christmas holiday of frivolity and vino; you’re a university student with not a care in the world. That is until you’re struck by that uncomfortable feeling in the pit of your stomach. This time next year you could be homeless.

For all first years and many second year students, January arrives and the epic house-hunt begins. However, epic it need not be. Don’t panic, take your time and remember that no matter what you hear there is no shortage of student houses in York: last year there was a surplus.

First and foremost, don’t get caught up in the house hunting hysteria which has a tendency to infect even the most level headed amongst us. The university recommends finding accommodation from their approved list which ensures that all advertised houses adhere to their Code of Best Practice. This list doesn’t become available until the end of January.

Chances are that by waiting for the university list you may end up paying less rent in a better location, it just depends whether you have the nerve to hold out a few extra weeks and resist the contagious ‘property panic’.

Sometimes peace of mind is the best option for those of us with a more nervous disposition. In which case various property agencies will be more than happy to help you find a house as soon as possible. There are numerous ways to start your house-hunt, the easiest of which being the reassuring familiarity of Google. A simple search will produce the websites of many local student-letting agencies, most of which will allow you to browse their property offerings and fill out an online enquiry form.

There are also numerous facebook groups which will provide you with advice, student feedback and contact information. So, if you’ve somehow managed to survive your first term of uni without getting facebook, now may be the time to take the plunge.

Once you’ve got a few viewings arranged you can really get stuck into things. However, don’t expect miracles. A contemporary, stylish house on the outside may turn out to be a derelict farmhouse on the inside. Look carefully at the condition and facilities of any prospective house, and if (as a friend of mine did), you find a bucket of festering vomit on the landing, call environmental health and make a quick exit! Remember, a palatial wonderland may only be one viewing away (relatively speaking).

Also, make sure you think carefully about your future landlord. Do they seem like the kind of person who will come and bleed your radiators, and fix your creaky door?

In terms of location, the main thing to consider is that you’re a reasonable distance from campus. Being within easy reach of town, whether that be through pedestrian, cycle or bus routes, is also a point to consider.

There are several main areas to focus on, including Heslington, Fulford, Osbaldwick and Tang Hall to name a few. Multi-map any unfamiliar locations and keep in mind that there are often pedestrian shortcuts. Don’t read too much into Tang Hall’s reputation as the ‘dodgy’ end of town; plenty of students have enjoyed happy and safe Tang Hall living. Make sure you ask any current tenants about their experiences and evaluate each house on an individual basis.

And now to the issue of rent. It varies greatly and often makes or breaks a deal. Depending on location, condition and size, rent will range from £55 to £75 per person per week. Keep in mind however that if you’re signing your contract through a letting agency there may be an inflated charge in order to cover their services and they often require a deposit of up to £300.

Ascertain whether your rent includes bills; if not, remember to factor water, electricity and gas bills into your budget, as well as the additional costs of activating a phone line, paying for line rental, internet connections and a TV licence. The prospect of all of this money draining away from you is a daunting one, so make sure you plan properly and are aware of your budget restrictions before you embark on this house-hunting journey.

Once you’ve found a house you like and can afford, which is in a good location with no indication of a dubious landlord, the only thing left to do is to sign the contract and draw your house-hunting antics to a close. Although it may seem like the hard work is done and the contract is just a formality, do not underestimate its importance. Make sure you’re given sufficient time to look over the contract, let your parents have a gander and go through it with a university welfare advisors who will alert you to any potential pit falls.

Don’t be rushed into signing anything and don’t feel obliged to sign if you’re not completely happy with all terms and conditions. It’s also a good idea to get a list of any planned works in writing, with a guarantee of a rent reduction if works are unfinished by the time your tenancy agreement starts.

Don’t let yourself get caught up January’s endemic house-hunting fever. Stay relaxed and lull yourself into the new term. Don’t rush into making a done-deal, avoid the stress-induced delirium and make a reasoned, practical decision to ensure that this time next year you’re happy with your decision and can officially put those impending worries of homelessness behind you.

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