Viewing and securing properties

You’ve found the right housemates and picked where you want to live: now it’s time to find a property.

From booking viewings to securing a place, this guide walks you through what to expect and how to feel confident at each step.

Viewing student properties

If you’re starting your student property search on Rightmove, you can request a viewing by sending an enquiry directly from the property listing you’re interested in. You can find more information on finding a place to rent here.

It’s common for letting agents to show several properties in one go, often to multiple groups of students interested in similar homes. This can sometimes feel pressurised, so try to take your time and view as many properties as you can. The more you see, the easier it is to compare what’s available and spot what really matters to you.

Making the most of viewings

A few simple steps can make viewings easier and more useful:

• Try to attend as a group
  Decisions are much easier when everyone who’ll be living there can see the property at the same time.
• Take photos or notes
  Viewing multiple properties can blur together. Photos and notes will help you remember what you liked, and what you didn’t.
• Ask questions as you go
  If anything’s unclear, ask the agent while you’re there so you don’t forget later. And go along with an idea of the things you want to look out for, and ask the agent or landlord.

Above all, remember: it’s much easier to walk away from a property that doesn’t meet your needs than to live somewhere you’re unhappy with. Don’t rush into a decision just because others are interested.

Securing a student property

Once you’ve found a property you like, you’ll usually need to make an offer to secure it. This lets the landlord or agent know you want to proceed and helps prevent the property being offered to someone else. You can find more information on making an offer here.

At this stage, the landlord or agent may ask for some payments and paperwork to move things forward.

Costs to expect when renting as a student

When securing a property, you may be asked to pay:

Holding deposit

A holding deposit is capped a 1 week’s rent. That’s an amount to secure the property, and this will either be returned to you, or used towards another cost (such as your tenancy deposit or first month’s rent).

Tenancy deposit

The amount varies depending on whether you’re renting alone or as a group, but it’s typically equivalent to between one calendar month and six weeks’ rent.

By law, deposits must be protected in a Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDP). This protects your money and explains how it should be returned at the end of the tenancy. You can find more information on tenancy deposits and deposit protection here.

Rent in advance

You may also be asked to pay one month’s rent upfront, alongside your deposit. If this applies, check when your next rent payment will be due so you can budget accordingly.

Signing the tenancy agreement

Before moving in, you’ll need to sign a tenancy agreement. This sets out the rights and responsibilities of both you and the landlord.

Take time to read it carefully and ask the landlord or agent to explain anything you’re unsure about. If you still have questions, your student union can often offer advice and support.

Providing a guarantor

It’s common for students to be asked for a guarantor. This is someone – often a parent or guardian – who agrees to cover the rent if payments are missed. They’ll usually need to provide consent and proof that they’re able to act as a guarantor.

FAQs

• Do I need to view a student property before making an offer?

  Viewing a property isn’t legally required, but it’s strongly recommended. Seeing a home in person helps you check its condition, understand the layout, and decide whether it’s right for you and your housemates before committing.

• Can we make an offer as a group?

  Yes. If you’re planning to rent together, you’ll usually make one offer as a group. It’s a good idea for everyone to attend the viewing and agree before making an offer, as decisions are much easier when made collectively.

• What payments are usually required to secure a student property?

  You may be asked to pay a tenancy deposit and up to one month’s rent in advance. Landlords or agents are no longer allowed to charge renters administration fees, for things like referencing. Always check what you’re being asked to pay and when, before agreeing.

• What is a guarantor and why might I need one?

  A guarantor is someone who agrees to cover rent payments if you’re unable to pay. Many students are asked to provide a guarantor, often a parent or guardian, as an extra level of security for the landlord.

• What should I do if I’m unsure about the tenancy agreement?

  Take time to read the agreement carefully and ask the landlord or agent to explain anything that isn’t clear. If you still have questions, your student union may be able to offer independent advice before you sign.