How to rent a property

You can probably think of loads of university friends to share a house with, but you don’t really know people until you live with them! Take a bit of time to think about the following as you have to live with each other for a whole year, and once you have signed a contract it isn’t easy to walk away. Ask yourself these questions:

• Do they have a similar idea of where they want to live and the same expectations such as how much to spend on rent?
• Are they organised with money?
• Are they a night owl or an early bird?
• Are their course study hours drastically different to your own?
• Are they super tidy or super messy, and does this fit with you?

There will always be the odd argument when living with others. When you first move in, have a chat and agree on some ground rules (house rules). This way everyone gets their say and knows what’s expected.

If it's the first time you have thought about renting private accommodation, it might be quite daunting to know where to start! The chart below outlines the typical renting process up to agreeing a moving in date with the landlord.

If you need help at any stage, please contact us.

Download a property viewing checklist

ALWAYS VIEW BEFORE YOU SIGN!
Once you have searched the ASH website and drawn up a shortlist of potential properties, it's now time to contact the landlord or agent to have a viewing. We always recommend that you do this, even if you like what you have seen on the property adverts.

If you are in a group, try to all go and view the properties together to make sure that you are all completely happy before you sign any contracts. Contracts are legally binding and can be extremely difficult to get out of, so read all T's & C's and be absolutely sure before you sign.

When you go to view properties, also take a look at the surrounding area. You may want to visit the area again at different times of the day to get a complete picture, especially if you are unfamiliar with Birmingham.

If you are unsure of anything while viewing a property, always ask the landlord!