Now you’ve settled into student life here at Loughborough, your mind has probably already turned towards finding accommodation for next year. To help you in your task, the experts in Student Advice and Support Service are here to bust some rogue myths and set you on the right track.

MYTH: You need to find a house before Christmas (all lies!)

Every year we have students panicking about next year’s accommodation, under the impression that they need to find a house before Christmas. This is a lie!

There are plenty of houses available for students in town. Students who rush into signing legally binding contracts in the first semester are often the ones who want to get out of the contract later. You will see students advertising for roommates because people have dropped out of their group /left university and need to get the spare room let quickly.

That’s not a good situation to be in. So don’t rush. Take your time and wait until after Christmas to look for student accommodation.

When should you look for accommodation?

Wait until semester two or even the summer- yes really! May or June is the best time to look as you’ll be able to take your pick of the houses and negotiate better deals with the agent. For example, you can get them to agree to start the contract in September so you don’t pay rent over the summer.

This leaves you with more time to get to know the people you’re currently living with and find new people to live with. Having more time is only a good thing; you will have a better idea of who your friends really are and if you are going to be happy living together.

MYTH: You can still change your mind once you’ve signed (sorry folks, this one’s not true!)

Once you’ve signed a contract, it’s very difficult to then walk away should you change your mind. After all, your tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract, which means you will either have to live in the house or find someone to take your place (not easy if others have also made the mistake of renting too soon).

MYTH: The letting agent is looking out for you (well, this is awkward…)

It’s important to remember that the letting agent works for the landlord and is looking after the landlord’s interest, not yours. We, on the other hand, are only here for you, the students of Loughborough University. Our advice is free, confidential and impartial. We only have our student’s interests at heart.

During this semester we (the Student Advice and Support Service) will be coming to all University Halls of Residence, along with the Student Accommodation Centre, to talk about your options for accommodation next year. We also have lots of information on our website including a contract checking service so you really understand what you are signing before you legally commit yourself to renting.

However, the most important thing to remember is #DontRentYet

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