Your Guide to Securing Second Year Accommodation
Finding the right accommodation for your second year at university can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for a cosy studio or a shared flat with friends, it’s important to choose a place that fits both your lifestyle and budget.
How to choose the right second year accommodation
When searching for second-year accommodation, ensuring it meets your needs is important. Here are a few key factors to consider when finding the perfect place:
- Work out your budget: Calculate how much you can afford so you know what price range will work for you.
- Proximity to your university: Make sure your accommodation is within easy reach of campus, especially for those dreaded 9 a.m. lectures.
- Access to transport links: In a city like London, being close to convenient transport options can make touring the city much easier. For tips on exploring the city, check out your guide to navigating Zone 1 London.
- Facilities to prioritise: Consider what amenities are important to you, such as bike storage, a gym, or the added comfort of an en-suite bathroom.
- Safety of the area: You want to ensure it’s an area you feel comfortable in but if you do have any concerns, read our guide to staying safe in London.
If you need more advice, check out our handy guide to student accommodation.
How to budget for your second year accommodation
Having a clear idea of your finances before committing to accommodation is important. Consider all your costs and plan so you’re prepared to cover everything.
- Factor in rent and bills.
- Consider any upfront costs like deposits or agency fees.
- Think about additional living costs (groceries, travel, socialising).
When is the best time to secure second year accommodation?
If you’re looking for second year accommodation with specific features, such as luxury facilities, it’s best to start your search early. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal times to begin your search:
- October/November: If you plan to live with friends, it’s a good idea to arrange your housemates early. This will make the process smoother and give you more options.
- January: The period after Christmas is another great time to start looking. Many accommodation options are still available, and this is when most students begin their search.
- March: While you can still find student accommodation in London, your choices may be more limited by this point. Popular locations and prime spots might already be taken.
How to decide whether to live alone or with housemates
If you value your own space, a studio apartment could be the ideal option, offering you a self-contained living arrangement with everything you need. However, if you’re considering living with housemates, it’s important to evaluate how well you’ll get along and how the living situation will work. If you plan to live with friends you’ve met at university, assess how well you know them and set clear boundaries early on. Alternatively, you might prefer a twin room, where you share a kitchen and living areas but still maintain some independence.
What to do if you haven’t found anyone to live with
Making friends at university can be tricky – everyone comes from different places and has different study and social habits. If you haven’t found anyone to live with yet, don’t worry! Here are a few easy ways to find potential housemates:
- Join online groups: Facebook groups or university-specific housing pages are a great way to meet others looking for housemates.
- Get involved in a society or club: Joining a club or society is a fun way to meet new friends in London and get to know them better in a relaxed setting.
- Try housemate-finding apps or websites: Websites like SpareRoom or Roomster are designed to help students find housemates.
- Ask your classmates: You never know, your coursemates might be looking for somewhere to live, or they may know someone who is.
- Go to university events: University events are a great way to meet people outside your usual circle and maybe find someone looking for accommodation.
Finding the right second-year accommodation is a big step in your university journey, and with the right planning, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. Ready to find your dream accommodation? Visit the urbancest website to explore a range of second year student housing options and secure the ideal place for your next chapter.