Rentinc’s failsafe house hunting guide for students and professionals looking for accommodation in Leeds

At rentinc, we understand that finding the perfect student home in Leeds is a huge deal. With numerous areas to choose from, various budgets to consider, and the ever-important housemate decision, we're here to help you navigate the process and make an informed choice with our failsafe house hunting guide. After all, we’ve been in the game since 2008, so we kind of know what we’re talking about!

 

1. Which area is best for you?

 

Leeds offers a diverse range of suburbs for students and professionals, each with its unique charm. The best area for you largely depends on your preferences and needs:

 

- Different areas for different purposes: From the bustling city centre to the quieter suburbs like Burley, rentinc has accommodation in an area suitable for every student and professional. If you prefer a vibrant, student lifestyle where you’re at the heart of it all, central Headingley or Hyde Park might be your best bet. On the other hand, areas like Woodhouse, Burley or far Headingley offer a more relaxed atmosphere.

 

- Have a nosey around: Before making a decision, explore the area you're interested in. Take a stroll, visit local shops, and assess the vibe. Consider proximity to your university or work, supermarkets, and entertainment options.

*TOP TIP: we strongly suggest joining local student or professional Facebook groups, to see what other people have to say about the area.

 

- Travel/Transport links: Think about your daily commute. Access to public transport, such as buses and trains, can significantly impact your convenience. Leeds boasts excellent transport links, so make sure to get the most on this. If you’re unsure, our negotiators are just a phone call away to answer any transport questions, or if you’re in the area, swing by our office!

 

2. Budget

 

Your budget plays a pivotal role in your accommodation choice. In Leeds, rental costs can vary significantly depending on the area and property size- so get your thinking cap on and make a decision on your group size early on!

 

- Area costs: The rental costs in Leeds differ by suburb. The city centre tends to be pricier, however things like travel/ petrol will be lower, due to your amenities being on your doorstep. For students, areas like Headingley and near the university can be slightly higher, whereas Hyde Park and Burley are on the lower side. 

 

- Property size: Similar to area, the size of your accommodation will also affect your budget. If you are riding solo or even a couple, prices of flats can be more expensive, however if you are part of a larger group, the rent and bills can be split between you all, meaning you pay much less.

*TOP TIP: Ask about our all-inclusive option for properties over 3 bedrooms, this is a hassle-free way to live your life to the full! Naturally all our properties are fully furnished and fully maintained too.

 

- Get in there early: To get the most value for your money, start your search early. Competition for the best properties can be fierce, and prices can increase as the academic year approaches.

 

3. Housemates

 

Choosing your housemates is a crucial decision that can make or break your living experience. Consider the following:

 

- Going solo or with your friends? Are you looking to live with university friends after your first year in halls of residence? Maybe you’re open to the idea of meeting new people and making friends through our house share options? Or you might want some space and to live peacefully on your own or with one other. Either way, group size is a huge part to play in your house hunt, and can make a huge difference in what is available to you! 

 

- Think about household responsibilities: When you’ve agreed your group size, it’s crucial to discuss chores and responsibilities with your housemates before signing a lease. Establishing clear expectations can prevent conflicts later down the line, and will help make sure everyone’s on the same page.

 

- Ensure everyone's needs are met: It’s no secret that house hunting as a group can be stressful, as there are lots of opinions and thoughts besides your own. It’s important to make sure that everyone's needs and preferences are considered. Be open to compromises, and strive for a harmonious living environment.

 

4. Property amenities

 

A large part of your house hunt will revolve around what amenities you require at your property. Whether it’s a driveway, garden, large kitchen or multiple bathrooms, at rentinc, we offer a wide range of properties tailored to meet your needs:

 

- Large or small? Flat or house? Whether you're looking for a cosy one-bedroom apartment with every thing you need within reaching distance, or a larger house to share with friends with enough space for social gatherings, the amenities you require are an important part of your house hunt.

 

- All-inclusive or non-inclusive? If you decide to go non-inclusive of bills, this means you will have to dedicate some time to choosing the right providers, along with taking regular meter readings so you’re paying the correct amount. On the other hand, if you choose to go all-inclusive, rentinc will sort all your bills for you, leaving you to focus on what really matters! Whatever you decide, it’s important to make sure all housemates agree, and if you go non-inclusive, there is someone happy to have the bills set up in their name and manage them throughout the year. 

 

- Fully furnished as standard: Say goodbye to the stress of buying furniture. Our properties come fully furnished and ready for you to move in. That’s everything from sofas to coffee tables, to desks and desk chairs, to bed frames and mattresses, everything you need to get you started! 

*TOP TIP: Feel free to move the furniture around to make best use of the space for you, we just ask you to move it back where you found it at the end of your tenancy. 

 

- Parking/Garden: Depending on your needs, rentinc have properties with private carparks, driveways, or access to street parking, so for those of you that have a car, feel rest assured it’s safe at night! We also have plenty of properties with either private or communal gardens, perfect for having friends over or catch some summer rays! Make sure you speak with your group before house hunting, to establish whether these amenities are necessary for you. 

 

5. Why Rentinc?

 

Rentinc has been providing students with accommodation in Leeds since 2008, and we’re now the leading provider for all-inclusive student accommodation in Leeds. Also... We hate to boast, but we’ve won awards for it too. Today we’re known for our straightforward, fun and enthusiastic approach to student lets. Here are a few more reasons why rentinc should be your first choice for house hunting for 2024/25:

 

- Students and Professionals: Although we are at the forefront of the student accommodation market, all our properties are available to professionals too! So whether you’re looking for a one bedroom apartment close to the city centre, or a professional house share in Headingley, we’ll have something for you!

 

- All-Inclusive Options: Our ultra-inclusive packages make budgeting easier, covering your rent, bills, and more in one monthly payment. To break it down, when you choose a house with rentinc, you will get your gas, water, electricity, Wi-Fi, and contents insurance included- that sounds like hassle-free living to us!

 

- Unipol Code: We adhere to the Unipol Code, ensuring that our properties meet high standards of safety, maintenance, and quality.

 

- Hassle-Free Service and experienced negotiators: Our experienced team is dedicated to providing a hassle-free rental experience. From the initial house hunt to move-in day, we've got you covered. Our negotiators understand what students want and work diligently to find you the perfect property at the right price. Got a question or just fancy a chat? Call our office on 0113 220 0040 or email info@rentinc.co.uk, and let us kick off your house hunt for 2024/25!