Accommodation
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Researching Accommodation
Being prepared to carry out research prior to your arrival is key to understanding which accommodation may be right for you, and how to go about searching for and securing a property.
It is important that you begin thinking about your accommodation as soon as you receive your unconditional offer to study at the University of Sunderland. If you do not consider your accommodation options until you arrive in the UK, you will find it difficult to identify and secure appropriate housing.
Thinking about your accommodation needs
It is important to consider your circumstances when researching accommodation. This will enable you to quickly identify what kind of housing is right for your needs and budget. Ask yourself questions such as:
- Do I have a plan for where I will stay once I have arrived in the UK whilst I look for my long-term accommodation?
- What type of accommodation is right for me, a single room, a flat, or a house?
- How close do I want to be to campus, or the city centre or local transport links?
- What is my weekly or monthly budget for accommodation – have I included all costs associated with finding, securing, and renting a property?
If you begin researching before your arrival and develop a good understanding of the above questions, it will enable you to quickly begin your search for property once you arrive in the UK, if not before. You will also be able to share with estate agents and property owners what your needs are for housing, which will allow them to identify suitable properties within their portfolio.
When thinking about these questions, remember to build in some flexibility. The housing market in the local area is competitive, with a lot of demand on properties suitable for students. If you are comfortable to negotiate on price, property type and location, you may find that you have more options available to you.
Planning your budget
The cost of living has increased in the UK, and this includes the price of rent. The average cost of accommodation in Sunderland is listed below. This information should help you plan your budget based on your needs.
| Property Type | Average cost p/m | Utility bills |
|---|---|---|
| University accommodation | £400 - £500 | Included |
| Private 1 bedroom | £450 - £600 | Not included |
| Private 2 bedroom | £600 - £800 | Not included |
| Private 3 bedroom | £650 - £900 | Not included |
University accommodation is competitively priced and includes utility bills. However, this means that rooms are in high demand and you should apply as soon as possible via the University's accommodation portal if you're interested.
Private property rental costs can fluctuate depending on a range of factors, including:
- Size and type of property (house, flat, studio, room)
- Location of property (i.e. city centre, close to campus, schools)
- Condition of the property (i.e. if it has been refurbished recently)
It is important to factor these rental costs into your monthly budget, in addition to the expense of placing a deposit on the property or paying for a guarantor service. You should have access to your maintenance funds (minimum of £9,207) on arrival in the UK to enable you to secure accommodation.