Top 10 pieces of advice for students from students
Bethan Croft·12 June 2025·3 min read

To understand more about the needs of students in 2025, Accommodation For Students carried out a survey to discover the motivations and expectations undergraduates have when securing accommodation.
Here are the top pieces of advice for those looking for first-time accommodation, as revealed by students that have experienced this for themselves:
- Start early
Begin your search as soon as possible to find the best options and avoid panic or pressure later. - Set a realistic budget
Nobody really knows how much something costs until they move out and find out for themselves. Our student survey participants advised to know what you can afford, factor in bills and avoid stretching your finances too thinly.
- Use one or two websites
Avoid bouncing between dozens of sites – use platforms that show all listings in one place.
- View properties (in-person or virtually)
Make sure you’ve had a good look at the property before signing to avoid surprises. Sometimes checking out more than one property is also a good idea so that you have comparisons and know what you’re getting for the value of your money.
- Ask questions and read reviews
Look for feedback from previous tenants and ask about things like utilities, deposits and maintenance.
- Don’t rush to sign contracts
Take time to read contracts carefully (check for any stipulations in the fine print) and don’t feel pressured to commit without fully understanding the terms.
- Communicate clearly and often
Keep in regular contact with landlords, agents and housemates throughout the process.
- Make use of filters when searching
Narrow your search using filters for budget, location and bills-included to save time and stay focused.
- Look with people you trust
If sharing, make sure your housemates are reliable and you agree on priorities.
- Ask for help when needed
Use university services, accommodation providers or trusted advisors if you’re unsure or struggling.