Rent Right
DON’T PANIC!!
It happens every year – stories circulate towards the end of the first term, whipping up panic among students in Manchester. You know the ones we mean: ‘there won’t be enough houses to go round for next academic year…all the good stuff’s gone by Xmas…etc etc…’
DON’T LISTEN… DON’T RUSH IN… RENT RIGHT!!!
Every year, students rush in too early and rent houses for the next academic year that aren’t right for them. Convinced that what’s on offer in December is the best they’ll get, they settle for less and are usually facing problems by the same time next year.
THE GOOD STUFF FOR NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR IS COMING…
Manchester Student Homes released our list of homes for next academic year on 7th January 2008. With all MSH landlords committing to a Code of Standards that ensures good housing and good management practice, and with housing advice and mediation on offer if you ever do have problems, the good stuff is worth waiting for!
AVOID PROBLEMS…
Some of the most common problems you may face if you rent too early for next academic year…
1. Bad housing.
Being a student doesn’t mean you have to settle for poor quality. Take your time, shop around, get a feel for what’s available. Our Code of Standards ensures a good standard of housing but we can’t vouch for homes not registered with us.
2. Bad areas / security.
Your opinion on what’s a good area won’t be exactly the same as the next person’s. Again, shop around, be informed by your own experience. Our Code ensures a reasonable standard of security but trust your own instincts – don’t sign up if you don’t feel reasonably happy in the house and area.
3. Bad housesharing.
You’ve barely unpacked your gear yet you’re committing to living with the same people until June 2009 – take your time and be as sure as you can that you’re happy to live with your group.
4. Bad landlords.
Landlords on our website have committed to the Code of Standards. If you have problems with your Code landlord, we can help but there’s a limit to what we can do (beyond advice) if your landlord is non-Code. The same applies to agents and agencies.
FOR SAFER, BETTER ACCOMMODATION, RENT RIGHT FOR NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR AT MANCHESTER STUDENT HOMES.
REMEMBER
- Our list for next academic year is at www.manchesterstudenthomes.com and on noticeboards in the MSH office.
- We can check your contract before you sign it or pay a deposit – this service is free to students. Landlords should allow you 24 hours to have this done.
- Once you’re ready to sign a contract, make sure everyone is there, including the landlord, and don’t pay a deposit until you’re ready to sign a contract.
- Househunting is hard work and can take time (but can also be good fun!) Arm yourself with a charged up phone and credit, pens, paper and lots of coffee and don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you need help or advice.