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The colourful houses of Hanover in Brighton

Top 20 house-hunting tips

  1. Start looking as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time.
  2. When you start looking make sure you have enough money available to pay your deposit and first month’s rent so that you don’t miss out when you do find a place.
  3. Use your common sense. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  4. Don’t go to viewings alone – for your personal safety, but also because a second opinion is always useful.
  5. View properties with the owner or agent. Owners who are willing to rent without having met the prospective tenant might not be legitimate.
  6. Try visiting the property at different times of day. People are around at different times of the day, so the levels of noise will differ throughout.
  7. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions when viewing a property, that’s what the agent/ landlord is there for.
  8. Don’t be afraid to speak to neighbours and people living in the surrounding area. They will give you a good idea of what it’s like to live there and usually they’re quite honest.
  9. Ask as many questions as you can think of about the property and the tenancy. Find out if bills are included. If possible ask the current tenants about living in the house and the area.
  10. Take your time, look everywhere, and use the checklist included in this guide. You will be less likely to miss important things and be able to compare properties more objectively.
  11. Look out for the condition of the property and furniture and pay particular attention to safety features.
  12. Take photos to help you remember all the houses you see. If you’re looking at several properties, it can be hard to remember all the details. Photograph any damage you might see - it’s good to have your own record to prove what condition you received the property in.
  13. View the property before handing over any deposit money or money in advance.
  14. Make sure you know your rights. If you need advice contact the accommodation office or speak to the university housing advice officer.
  15. Be realistic - don’t take on more than you can afford.
  16. Before signing a contract, make a note of any faults and request that landlord or agent confirms in writing that these will be rectified before the start of the tenancy.
  17. Think carefully before signing on the dotted line. Once you have signed it will be very difficult to get out of the contract if you change your mind.
  18. Never give any of your personal ID or bank details out over the internet. Only give this information to a landlord or agency once you have met them in person, viewed the property and decided to proceed with a rental arrangement.
  19. Be aware of online scams such those involving money transfer services like Western Union or MoneyGram. Money transfer services are not meant for any kind of transaction with someone you don’t know.
  20. Always get a receipt when handing over any money.
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Remember

  • Don’t do anything that you feel unsure about.
  • Don’t sign anything unless you are completely happy.
  • If something doesn’t feel right ask for clarification.

If you have any questions contact our housing advice officer.

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