by House4Students 
Choosing the right student accommodation can make or break the university experience. Whether you’re a parent helping your child prepare for their first year, or a student moving out for the first time, it’s essential to find housing that is safe, practical, and suits both lifestyle and budget.
With so many options—from halls of residence and private rentals to purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)—the choice can be overwhelming. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to help you choose the right student home in 2025.
1. Prioritise Location
The golden rule? Location matters. Look for accommodation:
- Within walking distance of campus or on a direct transport route
- Near shops, cafés, libraries, and gyms
- In safe, well-lit neighbourhoods with good local reputation
In cities like Reading, being close to the University and town centre can save time and stress—especially during exams.
2. Know the Different Options
There are typically three types of student housing:
- University Halls: Usually owned or partnered with the university. Great for first-year students who want a social, on-campus experience. They often have resident support teams and organised events.
- PBSA (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation): These are privately-owned student-only buildings that come with modern amenities like gyms, cinemas, 24/7 security, and high-speed Wi-Fi. They’re typically all-inclusive and fully managed—ideal for students who want convenience, though often pricier than other options.
- Private Rentals (HMOs): Houses in Multiple Occupation, where students share a house with others. These offer more independence and are common for 2nd and 3rd-year students, but come with more responsibility and potential variation in quality.
Each has pros and cons. PBSA is hassle-free, but often more expensive. HMOs offer value but may lack facilities. Know what you’re getting.
3. Consider Who You’ll Live With
If you’re opting for a shared house, make sure to think beyond just being friends:
- Will everyone pull their weight with cleaning and bills?
- Do you have similar expectations on noise, guests, or social habits?
- Is it better to live with fewer people or a bigger group?
Your flatmates can make or break the experience—so have honest conversations before signing a joint contract.
4. Check What’s Included
Budgeting can be tricky, so it’s important to understand what’s covered:
- Are bills included?
- Is Wi-Fi fast and reliable?
- Is there a deposit or admin fee?
- What are the tenancy terms (length, notice period)?
Tip: All-inclusive rents make budgeting easier but compare total costs carefully.
5. Understand When You’re Paying vs When You’re Staying
This catches a lot of people out. Many tenancy agreements start in July or August, even if you don’t move in until September.
That means:
- You’re paying for weeks you may not use
- You need to budget well in advance
- Deposit + rent may be due earlier than expected
Always check the start and end dates carefully and understand the full cost across the year.
6. Energy Efficiency Matters
With rising energy bills, make sure the property is economical to run:
- Check the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating (aim for C or above)
- Look for double glazing, modern heating systems, and good insulation
- Ask about average utility costs if bills aren’t included
Efficient properties save money and often more comfortable!
7. Don’t Ignore Reviews and Word of Mouth
Ask current students about their experience. Look up online reviews. Join local student groups on Facebook or forums. Some properties look great on paper but fail in real life.
Also, find out what the landlord or agent is like. Do they:
- Respond quickly to maintenance issues?
- Show up when they say they will?
- Treat tenants fairly and respectfully?
A good landlord can make a big difference. A bad one can make the whole year a nightmare.
8. Prioritise Safety and Condition
You wouldn’t live somewhere unsafe—and neither should your child. Look for:
- Secure entry systems
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Well-maintained communal areas
- Landlord or agent accreditation
Visit in person if possible, or request a virtual tour.
9. Check the Kitchen (Yes, Really)
This one’s often overlooked. Shared houses can have:
- Tiny fridges for six people 🧊
- One cupboard for everyone’s food 🍝
- A single shelf for pots and pans 🍳
Make sure there’s enough kitchen storage and cooking space for everyone. It sounds small, but it can be a daily frustration if overlooked.
10. Act Early but Not Rashly
The best properties go quickly—especially in smaller student towns like Reading. But don’t panic-book either. Take time to weigh up your options before signing.
11. Talk to a Specialist
Choosing a student home can be a headache. That’s where we come in.
At House 4 Students, we match students and parents with trusted, well-managed accommodation across Reading. Whether it’s a cosy 3-bed shared house or a premium all-inclusive flat, we’ll help you make the right choice.
⚠️ Just be wary of slick-talking agents trying to rent you a dive to hit their monthly target. If something feels off—it probably is. Always ask questions, get things in writing, and take your time.
📩 Need help finding the right student accommodation? Get in touch with us today.
House 4 Students – Safe, reliable, quality homes for every student journey. 
