Finding potential flatmates
If it is your first year at the university you might have no idea about who you want to live with. You won’t be the only one. There will be plenty of other people in your situation and there are a number of ways you can find each other.
Studentpad message board
Our online house-hunting system, Studentpad, has message boards that you can use to find and chat to potential flatmates. Find out about Studentpad
Facebook is another popular way for people to make friends online before coming to university. Once your student status is verified, we will give you access to special University of Brighton house-hunting Facebook groups where you can meet other first year students who are also looking to share private accommodation. Find out about access to these Facebook groups.
Studentcentral
Once you have been offered a place on a course at the University of Brighton you will be given access to a section of studentcentral, the university’s student intranet. The message boards on studentcentral are another good way to find and chat to potential flatmates.
Choosing your flatmates
Whether it’s your first year or final year, it’s important to choose people with a similar lifestyle to you. You also need to agree on a location you are all happy with and be able to afford a similar rent.
As a group you might want to discuss some key issues to assess your compatibility before you enter into a legally binding agreement together.
Tidiness
Some people might not notice that you can’t see the kitchen sink for washing up, but for others it’s important that everyone pulls their weight.
General lifestyle
Consider the hours you keep, and attitudes to studying and socialising. Be honest with each other about your lifestyle.
Financial circumstances
Resentment may creep in if your housemates have enough cash to go out every night whilst you can barely afford the essentials. Be realistic about what you can afford, and remember that you will have utility bills, food and transport to pay for as well as your rent. See Rent and living costs
Having friends to stay
You might think it’s great to have your friend from home come and stay for a month, but your housemates might think differently.
Staying for the summer
If some of the group are planning on returning home as soon as the exams are over but some of you want to stay and enjoy summer by the sea, you will need to consider the length of tenancy. You will more than likely be liable for the rent for the entire period. Check with the landlord or agent.
How many to live with
Another thing to consider is the number of people you want to live with.
More people can equal more mess. Larger houses usually have more issues with untidiness and cleaning.
Most student houses are family-type accommodation and therefore usually have four to five bedrooms. There can be greater competition for larger houses.
Living on your own might be appealing, especially if you’re a mature student. However living on your own can be very expensive and affordable places hard to come by.
Where to live
You will all need to agree on a location for your shared house. Have a think about where you want to live and consider the following:
- ease of access to your campus
- local facilities such as shops
- access to public transport
- where you might be working
- where your friends will be living
- parking
- value for money.
Once you have found a group to share with it’s time to start house hunting.
