Are you searching for good student accommodation in Manchester? Letting agents are dotted around the city and are there to help you find somewhere suitable for you and your housemates. If this is the first time you’ll be living away from home, there is quite a list of things you need to consider before putting your deposit down.

Firstly, it’s important you get to know the area you’d like to live in; what are the transport links like to your university? What are the local amenities like; for example, do you want a gym or a supermarket nearby? What are the crime statistics in your chosen area? These are all aspects you need to consider thoroughly before moving in anywhere. It’s important to note that where you live will have a major impact on your university experience – feeling content and safe in your home is essential.

Letting agents in Manchester tend to list houses in January that become available in June. If you want to be organised and snap up the best houses, it’s a good idea to get in there quickly. If you decide to leave your searching until the summer period, you’ll still have a choice but the better properties may be taken. There are a number of ways you can search for properties; conducting a simple search online for “Letting agents Manchester” will give you a list of agencies in your area and from there, you can ring around or browse properties online.

When you’re viewing your chosen properties you need to ensure your potential house is safe and in good condition. Look out for any signs of dampness; mould on bathroom ceilings or near windows is a good indicator. Dampness can cause problems for people with asthma and is not good for your respiratory system. Also make sure the house has had annual gas and electricity safety checks – you can request gas safety certificates from your landlord and it is your right to do so. If there are any signs of damage in the house (holes in walls, mould on windows) make sure you tell your landlord so the problems are rectified (and you are not charged for the damage when you leave the house). To avoid dampness in the house ensure you have a good heating system, you’ll need it for the winter months and it will help to air out your house. Another important part of the house people forget about is the garden – think summer barbecues on balmy evenings – is the garden tidy and respectable-looking? If not, you can ask the landlord to sort it before you move in.

Unfortunately, student housing areas are prime targets for burglaries. However, if you keep your house secure, the chances of being burgled are slim. Make sure your house is fitted with a security alarm system, and that windows are secure and always locked when no one is in. Leave a light on if people aren’t around for the night, or are away for the weekend. You could also ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your house while you plan on being away. All of these simple steps can prevent you from burglary. It may also be useful to take out contents insurance on expensive goods.

Author Bio: Ian Grainger is writing on behalf of Shepherd Gilmour, Manchester letting agents.

Category: Advice
Keywords: student accommodation, student lets, letting agents, letting agency