Shared Accommodation and Learning to Live with Housemates

Living with housemates can be one of the best student experiences, with friendships that can last a lifetime. The goal when you are deciding on accommodation is to think practically about the kind of friends you want to live with. It’s ok to put more thought into who you want as your housemates, instead of being pressured into a living situation that is not ideal for your wants or needs.

 

Communication Is Important 

This might sound obvious, but communication is key in any relationship and house sharing is no different. By establishing the freedom of open communication at the start, you and your housemates will be able to set ground rules, boundaries and voice your expectations to one another. In some instances, simply being good friends might not be enough.

 

Chatting about house rules, cleanliness, groceries and any other issues that are important, will mean that you and your housemates will all be on the same page, and will know what is expected of each other. It’s also crucial to remember that everyone’s lifestyle will likely be different. Some uni courses require more revising at home, while others require more time spent on campus.

 

Not to mention that everyone learns differently and might need more or less time to revise and study. If you are a group that enjoys spending time together, don’t be afraid to have weekly planned hangouts. You can also try rotating who cooks the meals or does the grocery shopping, which would mean that each of you has more time during the week.

 

Avoid Starting Unnecessary Spats

 

We are only human and sometimes we get frustrated and overwhelmed. Try discussing issues with your housemates, before they become something big and resentment builds up. It’s always easier to put out smaller fires, than massive ones that have grown bigger over time.

 

Another way to help prevent big fires is to be open about any issues after you have cooled down. Everyone can get heated at the moment, and sometimes, simply waiting a little bit helps us put things into perspective. This could also give you and your housemate/s the chance to have a civil conversation that leaves you both feeling good, instead of in a fight.

 

Space Is Not A Bad Thing

 

The truth is, everyone needs their own space in some capacity or other. One of the questions you can try to ask before you move in with someone is how much socialising they would ideally prefer. Though some students might like more of a party lifestyle and constantly doing things together, others might be more introverted and need more alone time and quiet. Questions like this will help you figure out if you would be compatible as roommates, or not.

 

As this will be most student’s first time away from home, you might find that you need more time to yourself, than you expected. University can be extremely overwhelming, and it’s very common for students to start having a more chilled lifestyle as the year progresses. Don’t be afraid of having your own space and learning how to be alone. This is a great skill to have later on in life!

 

Be a Good Housemate

 

What we mean by this, is to simply be nice and respectful to your housemates. It’s always good practice to try and be aware of how your housemate is feeling so that you know when they need space, and when they need a friend. Additionally, cleaning up your messes and following through with your house commitments will go a long way in gaining friendship and trust with your housemates.

 

Another idea is to try and think of nice things that you could do to make your housemate’s day better, or their life easier if they are having a hard time. In summation, be someone easy to live with, and in return, you will likely also be treated well by your housemates.

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Put Your Mental Health First

 

University can be an overwhelming time managing your studies, home life and social life. It’s never a bad thing to take time for yourself, to improve your mental health. This could mean having more alone time in high-stress periods or seeking out more social interaction. Don’t be afraid to be honest with your housemates, if you aren’t feeling up to your normal standard. You are all going through a similar experience together and it can be very beneficial to have people around who understand what you are going through!

Searching for Accommodation? Unihousing Can Help!

 

Unihousing is one of the top lettings agents in Selly Oak, offering modern studios and houses ideal for students and student life. All of our properties are fully furnished, with necessary amenities including a fully fitted kitchen, stylish bathroom, desk/study area, double bed and smart TV. Our student studios also have the price of utility bills and 100Mb broadband included in the rent, to make moving in easier for our students.

 

All Unihousing properties are conveniently located near the University of Birmingham in Selly Oak and are surrounded by various shops, pubs, clubs and food hotspots. You will always find things to do in Selly Oak, and the City Centre is only a quick trip away. Interested in the properties we offer? Contact our team today to register your interest and find your accommodation!