You Should Choose Selly Oak Student Accommodation: Here’s Why

Choosing student accommodation is not exactly easy. If you’re a student looking for flats around the University of Birmingham that are to your liking or are a Birmingham student seeking accommodation that makes getting to the University a straightforward task, then going with Unihousing is ideal. We're the agents that are chosen for Selly Oak student accommodation time and time again.

And here is why Selly Oak student housing is a great option:

Public Transport

To start with, what can make a particular area such an attractive prospect to students contemplating renting accommodation there, depends on whether or not the area is well-served by public transport options. Not all students can drive or afford a car, so public transport becomes quite important for several reasons. Fortunately, Selly Oak is frequented by bus services and also features a well-positioned train station. From Selly Oak train station, you can head out to other parts of Birmingham including the City Centre.

 

Going for a Night Out

Selly Oak is also a great choice because it is ideal for going out locally for the evening to socialise and mix with others. You may not always want to go too far afield to get a break from things, and with Selly Oak’s pubs and club-life just a short distance from your student home, this will be possible. A simple way to get out at the end of the day, integrating into Selly Oak’s student community for a more rewarding student experience is one reason this place could be a good fit for you.

 

Types of Unihousing Accommodation

Student accommodation in Selly Oak is such an obvious option for any Birmingham student today because of the quality of available choices. And for these student accommodation options, it’s Unihousing that are the people to go to. We specialise in studios for students as well as houses to share and other university housing choices. From arranging a viewing at one of our properties, the overall quality and standards of the accommodation we provide will be immediately apparent. Spacious, attractively decorated and equipped with all of the furnishings a student should need day-to-day, Selly Oak accommodation with Unihousing gives you what you need.

 

Unihousing is a Landlord, not a Letting Agent

What also makes Unihousing stand out as a great provider of student accommodation is that we own all of our properties. This means that we have a reason to keep our properties well maintained, and to provide a fast and reliable repair/maintenance service. We have been helping students find accommodation for many years, and have built up a building up a track record of good service and reliability in the process.

 

Parks

Perhaps something easily overlooked, going to a park when you have a bit of spare time between studying and lectures could be brilliant for you if you decide to choose student accommodation in Selly Oak. At a short distance from where your student home is based, going to a green space in Selly Oak allows you to get some fresh air where you can relax in peace and quiet. Or why not get some exercise out in the open?

 

Local Amenities

Without question, amenities are a huge part of the decision-making process when it comes to choosing which student home you want to go for, as these are the places you will need to access to find the things you require regularly. Shops and supermarkets are pretty much the biggest part of amenities. Selly Oak is filled with shops and supermarkets- ones that are good for your budget too. It also has chemists, places to get a haircut and more. So, it’s something to consider when you’re thinking about which student studio, student apartment or other student accommodation to choose.

 

Choice of Cuisine

Whether you’re on your own or with friends, getting a good meal is not only something you need but is also something that can be a lot of fun too. The range of food on offer throughout Selly Oak is something that boosts its appeal, especially for students. For a start, there’s plenty of takeaways here. Although students won’t be eating takeaways all the time, there’s no denying the convenience and taste factor that chomping down on food from a local takeaway place brings. What’s more, Selly Oak is home to a collection of tempting restaurants too; from Nando’s to Persian cuisine you’re not short on student food choices in Selly Oak.

 

Unihousing Student Accommodation

Roomy, well-furnished and well-priced, Unihousing’s studios in Selly Oak and other student accommodation is ready today. Contact Unihousing now to find out more!

Student Housing in the City of Birmingham

The buzz and energy that you get when being in the city is something totally unique and unlike anything else. With Unihousing student accommodation, you get this first-hand; our range of quality student studios, flats and shared houses put you within the hustle and bustle of city life. Our friendly team can give you the student experience you’re looking for, and the location of our properties means that there’s always somewhere interesting to go to and places nearby that offer you convenience when it comes to eating, drinking and buying things you need.

If living in the second largest city in the UK sounds a little overwhelming, then do not worry, as Unihousing’s student housing is situated in the relatively quiet student village of Selly Oak. Which might be something you are glad for between all of those journeys to and from university for your lectures and studying.

 

Premier Deluxe Student Studio

Even with that in mind, you won’t feel as though you are missing out on any excitement either when you choose Unihousing. Why? It’s simple really: the batch of Birmingham student properties that we offer are situated within an easily commutable distance to Birmingham’s city centre. From food and entertainment to shopping and nightlife, it’s in the city centre where Birmingham can show you what it has to offer.

   

           

The Right Option for You

What also makes our student houses such a sensible choice for someone looking for quality accommodation, is that they are so conveniently situated. The location of student houses allows you to get to shops and other amenities with no trouble whatsoever and are just a short walk to the university as well. The location is well-served by local transport links too, making the city centre and other parts of Birmingham highly accessible.

 

Birmingham - A City of Change

Much development has taken place in Birmingham in recent years and the process is ongoing. By taking up some student accommodation here you’ll get a front-row seat to see all of this progress unfold. One thing that all of this development has led to is a smooth and effective transport system through the introduction of the West Midlands Metro to the city. This could be just what you want for getting around the city centre on a casual meet-up or shopping trip with friends, but it is also really useful for getting to other parts of Birmingham at a good price.

 Birmingham City Centre, Victoria Square

Straightforward Solutions for Student Housing

Unihousing is here to reduce the stresses and strains of finding university accommodation in Selly Oak. Not only do we make something so necessary a whole lot easier for you, but we’re also here to give you what you want: student accommodation that you can rely on. We provide student housing that makes your time as a student both comfortable and enjoyable.

Why Choose Student Accommodation with Unihousing?

There’s really no getting around the fact that living somewhere that meets your needs is a must when it comes to living as a student. Regardless of what anyone may say, your student accommodation is where you are going to be living for a pretty significant amount of time while at university, which means that it needs to be right for you. And if it isn’t, your student experience could end up being not all that great as a result.

 

Unihousing has the answer. With a stand-out record for providing high-standard student accommodation year after year, Unihousing meets the requirements for the modern-day student by offering comfortable and affordable student studios, houses as well as student studios in locations that are always ideal.

 

Inside a Unihousing student house, you will find spacious rooms, tasteful décor and all of the features that you would expect to make your living experience easy and convenient. For example, our 4-bedroom student apartment on Bristol Road which is available from July of this year, includes two bathrooms, an open plan kitchen/living area and is fully furnished with the student essentials as well as a washing machine to make your life a little easier. In addition, the price of rent is inclusive of utility bills and high-speed 100Mb broadband. Plus, with this property, there is off-street parking behind a gate for added security.

 

Why is a Student House a Good Idea?

Shared Accommodation is a real opportunity to get to know people or build friendships with those you already do know. In some ways, living in a student house or apartment can be an easier way of living as a student as responsibility for buying the shopping and doing all those jobs that need doing can be shared with other people. If this sounds good to you, then choosing a student house might be the right decision for you. 

Seven Bed Shared Apartment

Unihousing's Selly Oak student housing is representative of the same high standards that you can expect from all of our properties. As a tenant in one of our student houses, you will be able to stretch out and relax in its attractively decorated, amply-sized rooms. Not to mention with furnishings included, you won't need to worry about finding furniture when you move in.

Over To You

There’s plenty of reasons to opt for student accommodation with Unihousing. Taking the next step is up to you. We offer affordable and reliable accommodation and we even have a dedicated property maintenance team to deal with any issues you may notice with the property.

Contact Unihousing today to find out how you can become a Unihousing tenant!

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!

Students Coming Back for The Spring Term: What to Expect and How to Prepare

For students coming back to University for this term, it has likely felt slightly strange and as if they were walking into the unknown. As every University will have different rules and a different plan for course structure regarding Covid-19, it can feel like a minefield coming back to your accommodation and your student life. Below we have listed some of the changes that you should be expecting, and how you can prepare for life back at university!

What Should You Expect?

Universities Will Not Be Fully Back to Normal Yet

 

Currently, it seems that different universities are handling students coming back differently. Some courses are being asked to come onto campus, while others are still functioning digitally from home. Other courses might start moving towards a more ‘blended’ learning environment, which could mean that you would be in uni part-time, and at home for the rest of the time.

 

For smaller courses, there’s a good chance that you might be able to be in person, as long as social distancing can stay in place. If you are unsure about how your Uni and course will be doing, check with your university to find out. There will likely also be protocols in place for students who are weary or are unable to come in for in-person learning, so find out what those protocols are for your course beforehand.

Covid Testing Will Likely Be Required

 

As Covid is still a big concern, most universities will likely require regular covid tests for any students who come onto campus. Particularly while students have still not received any vaccines, Universities will want to keep everyone safe, however, they can. Fortunately, all students will now soon have access to free rapid testing twice a week, as restrictions begin to ease. You can check with your university to find out what their protocols will be, and how the regular testing will affect your course.

 

Student Accommodation is Open, But Rules Will Need to be Followed

 

Unihousing has remained open throughout the pandemic, to ensure that all of our students have their accommodation needs taken care of, without worry. If you have not been back to your studios yet, it’s worth noting that things could be slightly different. As you share a complex, you must maintain social distancing where possible in the communal spaces and wear masks inside our Unihousing office. According to the government guidelines, you should:

 

- Wash your hands regularly

- Keep two metres away from other people

- Wear face coverings in all communal areas of the property (unless you can’t due to medical reasons)

- Stick to the current household socialising restrictions in your area

- Only share lifts with people in your household

- Only come to reception when necessary

 

How Can You Prepare?

Bring Back All of The Things You Want and Need

 

This year has been full of packing and unpacking for all students. But as you return to your accommodation this time, it’s worth noting that with the vaccine rollout, Universities are less likely to close again until the summer. So, when you come back to Uni, make sure you take everything you want and need. Try to splurge on your luggage allowance, and take all of the little things that will make your room as cosy and homely as possible. With the year we have all had, you deserve to have a place to feel comfortable in!

 

Stock-up on Food Sooner Rather Than Later

This is a good tip for any student coming back from time away at home. Try doing bigger shops where you can buy all of the things you need, instead of spending extra cash on takeaway and spontaneous shops. Try thinking of easy and quick meals, as cooking can sometimes seem more difficult than ordering in. Therefore, if you have simple, tasty meals already at your disposal, you are less likely to spend money on food delivery.

 

Though it is not fun thinking about possibly having to self-isolate in the future, it’s good practice to stay on top of your shopping, so that you are stocked up in case you do have to self-isolate at any point.

 

Get Stuck Into a Routine

 

With the year we have had, coming back to University probably triggers different feelings for everyone. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the trip, the move-in process, your new schedule and just getting back to ‘normal’. As there is so much change and uncertainty around all of us, getting into a healthy routine will help you stay focused and stay on top of all of your deadlines and your mental health too!

 

Try to get to bed at a fairly reasonable hour, and plan out all of your lectures and study times each week. Map out when your big deadlines are too, that way you always have all of the relevant dates at hand when you need them. Don’t be afraid to message your lecturers and tutors if you need help with your coursework, or if you are feeling a bit lost. They will surely be happy to have some one-on-one zoom calls if that is helpful.  

 

Since you will likely still be doing a bit of home study, try to balance your work with your break and relax time. Make sure you are also keeping in check with your mental health, ensuring that you can keep your head above water throughout all of the change.

 

Catch Up With Friends and Flatmates

 

As most students are now coming back to uni, you will be surrounded by people who are in a similar boat and going through similar things. Try to catch up with your friends, course mates and flatmates, whether that is by having a walk in a park, or a chat on zoom. Don’t forget to put time and effort into your relationships, as they will help you stay sane and tackle feelings of homesickness during these next few months.

 

If you have flatmates, try to set aside some time to hang out together, whether that’s by cooking a meal, watching a film or playing games. Since you are in a bubble, you have more freedom and can spend time together more freely than with friends outside your bubble.

 

Finding Accommodation for Next Year: How Unihousing Can Help

 

As the final term of the year has begun, many students have started looking for their fall term accommodation. As one of the top student landlords in Selly Oak’s, Unihousing has a wide variety of properties and many years of experience providing properties for Birmingham students. Whether you are looking for solo or shared accommodation, our properties are fully fitted with all of the amenities a student would need during their stay. To view our properties and register your interest, visit our website today!

  

Working from Home: How to Help Yourself Succeed

 Times have been tough since the pandemic started last year, in 2020. Due to many campuses closing throughout the various lockdowns, students have had to learn how to fully commit to distance learning and getting inspired to keep going, even in these tough times. Working from home comes with its challenges too. The distractions are endless, people’s mental health tends to be worse than before, and staying organised and creative can seem impossible.

 

Though things have been extremely difficult, there are some steps you can take to give yourself the best chance at successful revising and general homeworking. Below we have listed some of the ways that you can help yourself stay on top of student life, instead of letting it overwhelm you.

Stick to a Routine and Study Plan

 

Our brains are programmed to do well when sticking to a routine, so try to recreate that with your home study. Though it might seem silly to always wake up at the same time, and finish work at the same time, the structure of a routine is likely what most people need, particularly in a year without much structure.

 

Losing your daily structure can massively impact your ability to retain information. Having a routine will not only give you purpose, but it will also make you feel inspired and driven. You could also try setting various goals for your revising, projects, deadlines etc. Scientifically, by meeting goals and having ‘successes’, no matter how small, your brain will get empowered and you are likely to feel more motivated to keep going.

 

If you are having a hard time with a particular project, try switching it up to something you know you could succeed at. This will help get your brain back in the game and feeling creative. And don’t forget to get plenty of sleep too! Lack of sleep will make you feel groggy and less energetic, which can make revising and working so much harder.

 

Give Yourself Space and Time to Rest

 

Particularly during this strange and hard year, it is likely that your mental health has had some major peaks and valleys. It can be tricky to balance your working schedule with your relaxing schedule, particularly if you are stuck at home for most of the day anyway. Though you don’t have to live by a strict work and rest schedule, it’s ok to give yourself a break when things are getting too overwhelming.

 

You won’t be doing your best work if your stress and anxiety is skyrocketing, so give yourself time to rest, meditate, breathe, and take the space you need. Giving yourself a break when you truly needed is likely to get your head in a better state, and will improve your focus and your work.

 

And if you start lagging in a project, try changing it up and working on something else. If you can get inspired working on a different section or project altogether, you are likely to return to the previous project feeling inspired and energetic.

 

Don’t Forget to Take Breaks

 

Though it may seem obvious, breaks are crucial to effective study, but it’s very easy to forget about them, or simply decide not to take them. Long term, this is not likely to improve your mental health and instead could make you stuck and resentful. Plus, giving yourself distance away from work will not only give you a fresh perspective, but it also allows you to mess around and procrastinate on your designated breaks, instead of your designated work time.

 

It’s also important to remember that it’s ok to work late sometimes but try not to do it too often. If you set a time to finish, try to stick to that time. Sometimes we feel the need to ‘make-up' time when we have easily gotten distracted throughout the day, but don’t make yourself guilty. You could quite easily work the extra time, but be too tired to do anything productive anyway!

 

Get Frequent Fresh Air and Exercise

 

Yes, we know this has been said so much over this last year, but let’s not forget it! Even just taking a step outside could be the difference between you feeling revitalised and ready to keep going, and completely giving up. Fresh air is good to clear the mind and can also help to give your brain the space it needs to recover and get back into gear.

 

You could try doing indoor exercises too. Mini workouts, yoga or even simple stretches throughout the day can help break you out of a funk. By getting your physical body moving, your brain will also start moving.

 

Maintain a Tidy, Peaceful Working Environment

 

This could be tricky for some, but having a more minimalistic working space is likely to help your brain focus more. The more things you surround yourself with, the more distractions your brain then has. Even if the only thing you keep tidy is your desk, it is still worth it! Our brains can retain more information when there are fewer distractions around and that includes less mess.

 

Stay in Touch with People

 

As many of us have probably learned this year, the isolation this pandemic has brought has been incredibly hard. Even for more introverted people, the lack of human contact can still make everyday life and tasks harder to do. Try to stay in contact with friends, family and housemates as much as possible.

 

You could even try getting a study buddy that you video chat and study with throughout the day. It’s important to not let loneliness and isolation get the best of you, so don’t forget about your social life, even if it is limited.

 

Remove Stress by Finding Your Student Accommodation

 

Here at Unihousing, we want to help students find a good fit for University housing. Having your own space that fits your needs, wants and budget will help with not only your mental health but with your whole student experience. Unihousing is a top letting agency in Selly Oak, and whether you are looking for a shared house or a student studio, we have a variety of properties for you to choose from. Contact our team today to view our properties and register your interest.

Student and Professional Studios with Unihousing

Whether you are searching for student or professional properties, Unihousing offers an extensive list of studios and apartments to suit every individual’s wants and needs. As one of Selly Oak’s highest-rated lettings agents, we strive to provide modern properties that can not only be comfortable and stylish but suit functional living too.

 

Student Studios

 

Our student studios are a brilliant option for individuals looking for more independence and privacy. Being both spacious and affordable, our Selly Oak studios could offer you the freedom you seek while also not breaking the bank. Each studio is fully furnished and benefits from amenities including a desk/study area, ensuite, food prep area, 100Mb broadband and a smart TV included in the rent price.

 

As our Unihousing office is located right in Selly Oak, Birmingham, our team will be able to quickly and effectively help you find your best-suited studio apartment. Selly Oak is also the hub of student living, with a variety of entertainment, shops and services, greenery and parks, cafes, pubs, clubs and food hotspots. You will be able to find all that you need simply in Selly Oak, and also easily travel further out into the City Centre to find even more shops and entertainment.

 

All of our student accommodation in Birmingham is owned and managed by Unihousing, meaning that any maintenance and repairs will be handled swiftly and effectively by our team of qualified repairmen. Additionally, all of the communal areas in our studio complex’s will be cleaned by our cleaning staff, including the hallways, stairways and landings.

Working from Home

 

During these difficult times, one of the main benefits of having a private studio space is the independence it brings, allowing you to continue your studies from home. Having a quiet space to work throughout the day is extremely important particularly in the current times when many lectures and course studies are virtual. Reliable internet is also extremely important, which is why each studio property comes with 100Mb broadband and utility bills included in the price.

 

Unihousing’s student studios have an open plan living area with a double bed, office area with desk and smart TV, food prep kitchenette and an ensuite bathroom with a fitted shower/bath. These studio spaces offer both practical and comfortable furnishings, ideal for the bustling student lifestyle.

 

Location

 

Location is also extremely important. Our student studios are all only a short walk away from The University of Birmingham, and the student village of Selly Oak. You will have all the necessary amenities just down the road, including food shops, various goods and services, and even a shopping centre. Selly Oak is filled to the brim with diverse food hotspots and entertainment, giving you plenty of options for a good night out with friends and housemates.

 

With easy and reliable bus routes and a local train station, getting into the city centre and around the rest of the city couldn’t be easier! As a student, you will also be eligible for various student discounts for public transport, food and even shops, so saving some money throughout your stay will be a big bonus too.

Professional Studios/Apartments

 

Professionals looking for accommodation will find our new and modern apartments could be a great fit. With a varied list of professional properties, Unihousing offers living spaces that can cater to each individual’s wants and needs. We take both function and style into consideration and strive to create an atmosphere that bustling professionals can feel at home in.

 

With stylish fittings, a great deal of privacy and brilliant locations including Selly Oak, Kingsheath and Harborne, Unihousing’s professional properties can truly supply all that you might need during your stay.

 

This newly built studio is located in the centre of Selly Oak and provides both practical and comfortable living, which is ideal for any young professional. Our studios and apartments are designed to create both a relaxed and professional environment for the tenants, showcasing a beautiful open plan living space, spacious lounge, double bed and a designated work area with a desk.

 

These studio apartments also consist of a separate beautifully fitted kitchen, with all of the necessities and extras such as a brand-new washing machine and low noise fridge, to promote easy and comfortable living. Located off of the bedroom/lounge you will additionally have an ensuite bathroom, with modern fittings. Other important amenities will additionally be included such as a cosy sofa, smart TV and 100Mb broadband, increasing both the comfort and function of the property.

 

Location

 

We offer professional properties in a few different locations, including Moseley, Harborne, Kingsheath and Selly Oak. These villages are extremely business orientated and are ideal for professional living. Each local area contains all the amenities you will need during your tenancy, with a range of shops unique to the area, offering services including clothing, home goods, outdoor and garden centres, cafes, electronics and supermarkets. As Birmingham is extremely culturally diverse, you can be sure to find some amazing food just down the road.

 

What's next?

 

As Unihousing offers a wide range of properties, we are truly invested in finding the right place for you and your needs. If one of the properties above sparked some interest, or if you would like to view more of the properties we offer for the start of the academic year, head over to our website today, and register your interest with one of our team!

Things to Know Before Moving into Your Student Accommodation

As the time approaches for students to move into their new student accommodation, we want to make the move-in process as easy as possible. With varied properties to suit both solo and shared living, our team will be able to help you find a good fit.

 

Before moving into your new property, you need to consider certain variables including the location of the property, the contract, furnishings, extra costs and your general budget. Here are some of our tips to help you cover all of the basics and be ready to move in with confidence and excitement.

 

Location

 

One of the really important things to look out for when searching for student accommodation is the location. It’s crucial that you pick a place that has all of the essentials and amenities you will need close by so that shopping and spending time with flatmates and other friends is super convenient. You will also likely want to have a short/easy journey to and from University so that you can have those extra minutes in the morning and evening.

 

With Unihousing, all of our Selly Oak studios and houses are within walking distance to the University of Birmingham, whilst also having easy access to Birmingham City University and Aston University in the City Centre. Selly Oak is also well known for its student lifestyle, filled to the brim with activities, food, pubs, clubs, takeout and more. The area is also well supplied with supermarkets and shops where you will be able to find everything you need during your stay at University.

 

Budget: What Can I Afford?

 

One of the first things for students to do is to decide on a budget. There are a variety of properties you can live in, including a solo studio or a shared house. Start by working out the amount you can afford weekly/monthly, plus the utilities and food expenses and then you will have a good starting point.

 

Shared houses do tend to be cheaper and you can also share the costs of food, bills, cleaning products etc, which will enable you to save money with your housemates. Though solo living is slightly more expensive, you benefit from extra privacy, freedom and space to yourself.

 

Your studio will consist of an open plan living area, ensuite bathroom and a private or shared kitchen (but you will only be sharing with 1 other person). You could also decide to rent a twodio with a friend which would work out cheaper than a 1-bed studio. One of the main bonuses of renting one of our studios is that the utility bills and 100Mb broadband will be included in the rent.

 

Look Over the Contract

 

When getting ready to move into your new accommodation, it’s easy to just skip over a rental contract, sign at the bottom and be done with it. And though this is always the temptation, it’s really important that you read through the whole document. You could also have a parent or relative, guardian or even a teacher look it over, to ensure it is all straightforward without any hidden clauses.

 

A rental agreement or contract should give an outline of the important information regarding your stay in the property. The details will include the rent amount, move in and move out dates, what you aren’t allowed to do in the property, the agency’s rules regarding damage and repairs, etc. By reading over the contract from start to finish, you are less likely to overlook any important information.

 

How Much is the Deposit?

 

Many students tend to forget to factor in the cost of the deposit, they will need to pay for their accommodation before they move in. These deposits are usually taken as a way to pay for any damages and repairs at the end of your tenancy, so by keeping your accommodation clean and well looked after, you are likely to get your whole deposit back at the end of your tenancy.

 

The property you are wanting to rent should have the deposit amount written out in the informational section online. But if not, it’s always a good idea to check with your student estate agent to make sure you aren’t suddenly surprised with a deposit that you weren’t expecting. At Unihousing, we often have various offers regarding deposits, including low or even no deposits for students. It’s worth checking out our website to see what offers we have up right now!

 

Is The Property Furnished?

 

Most student accommodation does come either fully or partly furnished, but it is always essential that you check before signing your rental agreement. Commonly students do not have much if any of their own furniture, so our student properties come fully furnished with all you will need for your time at uni. All of our studios come with a desk, TV, double bed, various kitchen appliances, and white goods.

 

Our houses will also have similar furnishings, with an added bonus of couches and other seating in the communal areas. Additionally, for some of our properties, we do allow you to swap out furniture if you desire something different. For example, you could swap a desk for a bedside table, or a chest of drawers for a wardrobe. Make sure you check whether this is an option for your accommodation!

 

Student Accommodation With Unihousing

 

Unihousing offers a wide variety of student properties at affordable prices. Our team will be able to help you find accommodation that suits your needs, wants and budget in the booming location of Selly Oak. Whether you are interested in solo living or sharing a house, we have countless options for you to choose from, with modern and stylish fittings, perfect for student life. To find out more about the properties we offer or to book a viewing, visit our website today.