When viewing a potential property, you should consider things like the state of the furnishings, whether there are enough bathrooms and WCs for the house, and if the bedrooms are equally sized or not.
It is also worthwhile to speak to the current tenant (if available) as they will be able to provide an accurate picture of what it is like to live there (for example, is it cheap to heat, what the neighbours are like, etc.).
You should also ask the following questions:
- What are the dates for the tenancy agreement?
- Does it cover the academic year only or is the property for a whole calendar year? This can affect the suitability of the property as rent may be required for a period of time when it is unoccupied.
- What is the rent per month and how is it to be paid?
- Are you aware of the rent per month, and is the rent affordable? Rents can be payable either monthly or as lump sums throughout the year. The method of payment should also be considered such as debit or credit card and transaction fees. Rents are generally cheaper the further away you live from the town centre, so this is also worth considering.
- How much is the deposit?
- It should not be more than the value of two months’ rent.
- What utilities (if any) are included within the rent?
- Utilities such as gas, electric, phone and broadband are not usually included as part of the rent. You should make sure you have the appropriate funds to pay for these every month, as well as other living costs.