Going from Halls to your next Home soon?

Since the end of term is coming up for lots of you, we asked Darcey to give tips on her experience of moving into a privately rented house.

After 2 years of living in halls of residence, Darcey made the move into a house share with friends and while this part of the university journey is super exciting, there can be so much to think about.

It can be tempting to just think about how you're going to decorate your new room and what housemate meals you'll make, there are a few other things you might want to think about. To make your move as smooth as possible, here's Darcey's 5 pieces of advice for moving into your next home.

🚎 Consider your new commute 

Get to know your soon-to-be neighbourhood and where you'll be spending lots of time! Living in Smithdown next year? Get to know the area with our 'Get to know Smithdown' article.

You might want to start thinking about your commute e.g. will you take the bus? Be sure to get a bus pass from the Guild to save money! Will you cycle? Think about the best cycle routes and where you'll store your bike at home! Thinking of bringing your car? Consider car sharing and any restrictions on parking near your new home! You can read about commuting around Liverpool when living off campus here. 

🧼 It's up to you to look after your new home

It might sound super obvious but when it comes to looking after your new home, it is now your responsibility. Unfortunately there won't be a member of the cleaning team changing your bins or cleaning your kitchen.

You'll need to get to know when bin day is, who to contact if you need help and how to make sure your house is safe and secure at all times. You can ask your landlord or letting agent if you're unsure.

💭 Know what support is on offer

In Halls, you'll have had your Residential Advisers on hand but sadly they won't be around when living in privately rented accommodation. Rest assured though, there are plenty of other types of support available should you need it!

You'll be able to contact University Support Services, Liverpool Student Homes, Liverpool City Council and the Guild for any housing advice. You can read more about support available here.

🏡 Settling into a new community 

Moving out of Halls and into a residential area means new neighbours and a whole new community to settle into. Get to know who's living near you as it may even be an elderly person or young family. 

Consider the different types of lifestyle around your new street and be mindful of those around you, especially when coming home late at night or playing music. For more neighbourly tips, click here!

⚡ Bills - included or not?

Unlike in Halls, your bills might not be included in your rent. It's up to you and your housemates to understand how bills work, whether they're included in your rent and if they are, is there a usage cap? Speak to your landlord or letting agency to find out before you move in and always take a meter reading when you move in. For more budgeting and bills info - click here!

📍 Housing Talk coming up! 

Find out everything you need to know about moving into a privately rented house with a Halls to your new Home Talk from Liverpool Student Homes. From moving in top tips, to bills, inventories and the new renters right bill updates, head to Vine Mezz on Tuesday 29th April at 6pm.

Chat to our teams for support: Money Advice & Guidance, Guild of Students advice, Sustainability Team and Off-campus Living and Liverpool Student Homes. PLUS you could win an air fryer to kit out your new kitchen! Find out more about the event here.

Check out the rest of the Moving on From Halls series of articles and blogs here!