Last minute student room search: Tips for late deciders

Are you looking next to a last minute student room? Don’t panic! With these tips, you can help yourself to still find a suitable student room.

Last minute student room search: Tips for late deciders

1. Use all available channels

Find a last minute student room by using all available channels:

Introductory days.
Local brokers.
Facebook groups.
Student Associations.
Bulletin boards on campus.
Students in your field of study.
Local newspapers and advertising magazines.
Websites of your college or university (Stuvo).
Online rental platforms and apps such as Spotahome, Kotatgent and Kotzoeker.

2. Be flexible in your requirements

Set clear limits on your maximum budget.
Consider a dorm with shared, common areas.
Be open to short-term leases as a temporary solution.
Also look at student neighborhoods that are a little further from campus.
Be prepared not to be too picky regarding size or amenities.

3. React quickly, but remain cautious

Turn on notifications for new ads.
Respond immediately if you see an interesting cot.
Be alert to fraudulent offers. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Check that the landlord has a legitimate background by reading reviews and experiences of others.

4. Prepare for viewings

Bring a parent or friend for a second opinion.
Carefully compare the student lots you viewed.
Take photos or videos during the viewing for later consultation.
Make a good impression with the landlord. Be on time and ask relevant questions.
Bring appropriate documents (school registration certificate, parents’ income certificate).

Read our article: Viewing student digs: checklist

5. Consider alternative housing options.

Tiny houses for students.
Hospice living: Living with a host family or elderly landlord.
Cohousing: Living with other students in a shared house.

6. Pay attention to rent and additional costs

Check what the rent is and what the additional costs are, such as water, electricity and internet.
Ask about average monthly costs for heating and other utilities.
Read the lease carefully before signing it.
Check that the cot meets housing quality standards.
Be aware of Flemish regulations regarding student housing.

7. Provide an emergency plan

Can’t manage to find last-minute student digs for the start of your academic year? Then consider temporary solutions:

Commute from home for the first few weeks.
Live in temporary housing through Airbnb or hostels.
Stay with friends or family near your educational institution.
Check if your school offers emergency housing options (e.g., student hub) for new students.

Last minute student room search_ room search on your phone — Image: 4 students at 2 laptops

Sources: HLN

Would you like to cite this article as a source? Then use:

Stiasteny, L. (2024, July 8). Last minute student digs: Tips for late deciders. Apartment.com. Accessed on (date XX/XX/202X), from https://www.appartement.be/tips-voor-een-last-minute-studentenkot-zoeken

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