Picking your accommodation is one of the first big decisions you make when heading off to university. We’ve broken the decision making process down for you, so that you can spend more time doing the things you love this summer.

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What to look for in a student accommodation?

Finding out what’s included in the rent is important. Somewhere with a low price may seem great, until you have to pay your first utility bill and have flashbacks of your room mate forgetting to turn the heating off. Many places, like us at Host, provide bills, internet and even more included with our rent. You can’t put a price on peace of mind.

Once you’ve got your price locked down, you’ll want to make sure the location is on point. Are you near university facilities? Can you walk to the shop? These are questions students sometimes don’t ask, but they affect your quality of life as a student. Think about what type of activities you will be doing, and if your location makes them easier to achieve.

Security is another key area to look at. Host ensure that in all our student accommodations, our tenants rest safe and sound. If you’re unsure about this, then ask the staff at any visits you do. If possible, speak to people living at the accommodation and ask their opinions. This does not have to be in person, as many accommodations have ambassadors that help prospective tenants both online and in-person.

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When should you start looking for student accommodation?

With results day and clearing just around the corner. we recommended you look for student accommodation as soon as you can. But don’t fret, as this doesn’t mean you have to go to visiting all these new places. Utilise Virtual 360 Tours to make your viewing experience easier. If you have an unconditional offer, then search immediately, as many accommodations can sell out quicker than expected. This way, you’ll get first dibs and can book the room with the best view.

If you know your first-choice university, but don’t have a confirmed offer, search for providers that have flexible cancellation policies. This way you can search before A-level results day.

At Host, we let your book your accommodation in advance, and then cancel it if you didn’t manage to get your place at uni. With the uncertainty of university as well as COVID, it’s important to check out providers that put you first. Many of our locations have other special offers running including refer a friend and cashback, visit the individual property pages for details.

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Second, third, fourth years accommodation…

Looking for your next student home is often exciting, no doubt you’re more settled in after your first or second year at uni and have a better idea on what you’re after. But there’s a myth in the world of university and student life that student accommodation is just for freshers.

And the truth is no its not.

You can live with Host in student accommodation no matter your year of study. It doesn’t matter if you’re going into year two, three, four or even post-graduate study, we’ve got a room with your name on it. – You just have to be eligible for council tax exemption. Which applies to all full-time students and some part-time students, if you are unsure your university or college should be able to advise you whether you are exempt.

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What are the most common types of accommodation for students?

The most common types of accommodation include:

• Privately rented accommodation
• University halls of residence
• Private sector halls of residence
• Living at home
• Parent-purchased properties

Although not all these options may be available to you, it is a good idea to get familiar with them, as they each have their pros and cons. Throughout your studies, the type of accommodation available to you may change, so it is good to be in the know.

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Why Host?

Not to name names, but some accommodation providers are better than others, and not all of them are the same.  Here are just some of the best reasons to live with Host:

• • No hidden costs – Simply pay your rent and we take care of the rest.
  • No deposit – No bond.
  • All your bills are included in your rent.
  • All Host properties have Security and caretaker cover and assisted CCTV.
  • On-site reception and maintenance teams for any little problems.
  • Your Wellbeing is always our priority – read more about your wellbeing here.
  • We’re British Safety Council COVID-19 Accreditation.
  • We’re close to campuses and city centres – perfect for the commute to uni or for work or nights out in town.
  • Free Wi-Fi internet in every room.
  • Social calendar of events.
  • Post and Parcels – we’ll email you to let you know your parcel’s been delivered.
  • Secure bicycle parking.
  • Laundry room with washing and drying facilities.
  • We provide you with Award winning value.

Find out more about living with Host.

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Once you’ve picked your place, get ahead of the game and find out what you need to take with you to university.

Host offer student accommodation throughout the entirety of the UK, so if you don’t know where you’re staying then this should be top of your list.