Wednesday 12 December 2018

Tips on Finding Good Student Accommodation

When to Look

For those wondering when to begin looking for student accommodation, it's worth remembering that students have already started their accommodation hunt and that people will continue looking throughout the year, and that means that starting your search soon is advisable. Also, by trying to fit in with your friend’s house-sharing plans, you might end up missing your opportunity. 

If you're a Birmingham student and could be tempted by the prospect of Unihousing student accommodation such as a Selly Oak studio or a house to share; you may be interested to hear that Unihousing has impressively refurbished studios that are available now that probably won't be in six months.


Check the Online Reviews

As most of us already realise, online reviews are pretty invaluable these days. When we are researching into something we're interested in on the internet, seeing what other people think about it via their online reviews is one of the best ways to judge how good it might be. It's really no different from student accommodation either. 

Checking the reviews for student studios and houses, for example, helps you see what the particular strengths of the accommodation might be. And of course, the overall star ratings are a brilliant insight, too. For those seeking student housing in Birmingham, Unihousing receives impressive ratings for their selection of Selly Oak student accommodation, which is reassuring for those looking for somewhere to stay in Birmingham.


Price

Money is of course an important factor in making a decision about your student accommodation. It could be said that while there may be a temptation to seek cheaper options, this may not be an indicator of quality. And while paying a high price for your accommodation may be something that signifies higher standards, it's important to look ahead to what you'll be available to afford long-term. So, if you can find a way to balance affordability with high student housing standards, you'll be on the right track.


Bills

Closely linked to the previous entry on this list, bills are another part of the whole consideration regarding exactly what your tenancy as a student will cost you financially. Some lettings agents such as Unihousing are able to offer properties that have utility bills and internet included in the price of rent. This is not only an idea that is good for your bank balance, but it also simplifies the overall process of covering costs by combining the price of rent and bills into one uncomplicated package.


Ask if the Agent Has Sign-Off for Repairs

Repairs are obviously something's that going to be necessary from time to time. If something goes wrong in your property, you will want repairs to be carried out quickly and effectively, so finding out, if the agent has the sign-off for repairs, is important. Agents usually work with landlords, so that smaller leaks and other repairs can be sorted straight away. 

With larger problems though, larger sign-offs for repairs are needed. A larger sign-off for an agent means that bigger repairs in your accommodation can be covered. When you are making your choice about student accommodation, find-out about the sign-off on repairs, as it can mean better convenience and comfort for you.


How Long Have the Agent and Landlord Been Trading?

The reason it's good to know how long a lettings agent and landlord has been trading for is that it suggests the strength of reputation that the agent has and the kind of trust it enjoys amongst the public. For example, Unihousing has been providing accommodation since 1984 and continues to offer a high standard of accommodation to students and professionals in Birmingham.


What's Important to You and Space

When it comes to finding good student accommodation, deciding what is important to you is a tip that is worth employing, and that could lead to you placing nightlife options above accessibility and convenience, or vice versa. Being comfortable though is surely always towards the top of your priorities in choosing student accommodation, and a key part of being comfortable is having spacious housing. 

You'll probably want enough room for all of your things as well as storage space and enough space for you to study in peace. You may feel that these issues are particularly relevant if you are contemplating being a tenant in a house with others. In general, though, you won't want to feel enclosed or boxed-in inside properties that are just too small, so make sure you're aware of these issues.


Location

Aside from the quality of the properties themselves, where particular student accommodation is situated is a significant factor in finding student accommodation that is right for you. The extent to which an area suits you is, of course, important, but the extent to which a location offers convenience is vital too. If you're wondering what it is that constitutes a good location, think about what essential amenities (shops, supermarkets etc.) are positioned in the local area. 

Consider what the surrounding area offers in terms of nightlife and other aspects that can help you unwind and socialise with others. Also, think about how accessible it is and its proximity to other places you might want to get to for fun or interesting activities. It is also worth looking at the proximity to public transport if you’re likely to be using it regularly. 


Check the State of Repair

When you view a property, check-round to see if there are any areas of work needed in the accommodation as this could be a warning sign and may reflect poorly on the landlord. If you see any areas where work is required, it is a good idea to ask about them. Those searching for student properties in Birmingham may be glad to know that Selly Oak-based Unihousing is professional landlords who can be relied upon to deal with any problems with accommodation quickly and effectively.


Check the Age of the Furniture

This tip should prompt you to look at the furniture in the accommodation you're viewing. By simply looking at the furniture, you should get a decent idea of how old it is. If you can spot any obvious wear and tear on the furniture, you may need to question whether it's an indication of other problems with the accommodation and whether you are dealing with serious landlords. With a letting agent like Unihousing, furniture inside their Birmingham student accommodation is updated. And, if you're still not quite satisfied, you can specify that the furniture is replaced as a condition for you moving in.


Electrical Points

This isn't necessarily a huge issue, but it's worth finding out how many electrical points there are in the student studio or house you are looking into. Obviously the more there are, the more convenient it will be for you. It should be pointed out, however, that modern properties ordinarily have plenty of electrical points, so a shortage of these points demonstrates that the property is relatively older. There will normally be enough electrical points inside Unihousing accommodation but if you're not sure, you can ask for more to be added as a condition for your moving into the property.


Appliances

Something else that you might want to bear in mind when searching for student accommodation is what kind of appliances are included with the property. There are certain appliances that, if not present in your accommodation, will make your day-to-day living much more difficult. With that said, it is advisable that you check what appliances come with the accommodation you are looking into. 

For those trying to find student accommodation in Birmingham, Unihousing's student studios and houses are well-equipped, with washing machines, fridge/freezers, smoke detectors, fire doors, security alarm system and showers. Some properties also feature flat-screen TVs.



Contact Unihousing or visit our website now to see how we can help you with your search for student accommodation!!

Monday 10 December 2018

10 Comedians to Watch Out For


Watching a comedy show can help you de-stress at the end of the day, whether it’s live or televised. But how do you know whether the comedian you’re going to see delivers the right comedy for you? This is where we come in, by letting you know 10 comedians to watch out for. Let us know who your favourite is in the comments below.  


1) Richard Pryor


A massively influential force in stand-up comedy who could quite easily be described as the greatest of all time, Richard Pryor is simply essential viewing. An artist who hilariously captured the pain and difficulties of life as it is lived, Pryor's work is also hugely memorable for its incredible anecdotes and insights into a unique man with an extraordinary life.


2) George Carlin


From “Seven Words You Can Never Say On Television” to “A Place for My Stuff”, George Carlin is another monumental figure in the history of modern stand-up that has shaped the way, stand-up has grown over the decades. Massively intelligent, with a tone that can shift from being fierce and fiery too, silly and whimsical, there's always something with George Carlin to catch your attention, make you think and make you laugh.

3) Dane Baptiste


Dane Baptiste is a hilarious UK comedian who was appeared on BBC's Live At The Apollo and Mock The Week, and was nominated in 2014 for a Comedy Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Since that time, Dane has continued to please audiences all around with his personal insights and incisive commentary. Join him as he expands his fan-base during his G.O.D (Gold, Oil, Drugs) tour that continues through the rest of this year.


4) Stewart Lee


Not exactly cheerful but not like anyone else, either, Stewart Lee's work goes against the grain but does so in a subtle yet stark way. Content and opinion is only part of the puzzle with Lee though, as his approach to stand-up is one that places a particular emphasis on rhythm and style, taking you places you weren't sure stand-up could. Bold, surreal and quiveringly funny.

5) Rhod Gilbert


One of the bigger acts to come out of the UK in the last decade or so, Rhod Gilbert is now working to a steady schedule of well-suited television shows and documentaries. Before all that, though, he was a shouty comedian, loudly complaining about things he noticed in society and discussing his anger issues. Not incapable of sophistication either, The Man With The Battenburg Tattoo DVD performance shows his ability to create multi-layered, story-driven comedy. Sit down, perhaps with the volume lowered slightly, and get a dose of UK comedy at its best with Rhod.


6) Joan Rivers


The career of the late Joan Rivers was a lengthy one that stretched over several decades. In that time, she became unmistakably recognisable for her consistently punchy lines about all manner of irritations, all delivered in her distinctive voice. Rude, abrasive and funny, a night-in with the comedy of Joan Rivers is sure-fire entertainment.

7) Dave Chappelle


Arguably one of the most popular funny-men the US has to offer, Dave Chappelle is a man who seems to have got right into the middle of things in present-day America. His more recent Netflix stand-up has given us an impressive illustration of a top comedian going head-on into the melting pot of the current US social and political picture.

8) Chris Rock


Another star of the stand-up world, Chris Rock is a highly-respected master of the mic who commands any stage he walks onto. If you're someone who hasn't yet put aside the time to watch one of Rock's shows, do so soon. Chris Rock has a remarkable ability to mix wonderfully succinct observations about politics and culture alongside brilliantly perceptive jokes about relationships.


9) Robin Williams


Seeing a Robin Williams stand-up performance is something of an experience. His pace, his energy and his sublime ability to craft gags that work on both a cerebral and a purely funny level is really stunning. Filled with unforgettable bits and wrapped-up in Williams' heroically wild persona, this is guaranteed to give you the giggles.

10) Bill Hicks


A man to make your mind open, Hicks was a legend. A defiant voice in the age of Regan, Bush Sr, and Clinton, before his death in 1994 Bill Hicks seemed to wander through his own issues whilst confronting those in real life, such as war and the economy, before reassuringly telling us that “It's just a ride”. A true individual, Hicks made comedy that was both of its time and timeless.

Unihousing and Accommodation

Unihousing currently have on offer a selection of high-standard professional properties. And for all of the Birmingham students out there that are reading, it should be noted that it's never too early to begin looking into student accommodation, including student studios, houses and apartments.

Those in need of professional properties can find the right kind of living standards with Unihousing's range of spacious and well-presented properties that are situated within desirable Birmingham locations. By being based in such affable Birmingham towns as Kings Heath and Harborne, Unihousing's professional properties satisfy your requirements for housing that is both comfortable and convenient while also allowing you to explore nearby options for a cultured and invigorating social life. The superb locations of their professional properties also afford you the opportunity to access other parts of the city including the City Centre, opening up a whole range of possibilities for discovering the artistic, historical and sports-related merits of Birmingham.


Student Housing

Student accommodation is also ideally situated when it's provided through Selly Oak-based lettings agents Unihousing. The Selly Oak locations of their student studios are filled with plenty of shops and supermarkets as well as the kind of amenities that you would need to get you through an average week of student living. Not only this, but Selly Oak is great for take-aways- which is ideal for a quick solution to not having anything in for dinner.

There's also a good number of places to go out to at night in Selly Oak. Boasting pubs, clubs and restaurants that will only be a short walk from the front door of a Unihousing student property, being a tenant in Selly Oak definitely has its advantages. Due to its excellent restaurants and vibrant clubs, it's good for socialising as well. The University of Birmingham Edgbaston campus is a short walk away, too. Plus, with the nearby train and bus services, getting out and about to keep active and find things to do is never a problem.


For those out there who are seeking either professional properties or student accommodation for a reasonable price in Birmingham, there is no denying that Unihousing are well-worth getting in touch with.

Contact Unihousing today to register interest and discover what we can do for you!!