Relocation to study for international students is a huge step. Excited as they may be, most students feel a bit homesick, especially during their first months of stay. Unlike family or culture itself, a landlord could do so much in helping a student settle. At StudentTenant.com, we have observed how some landlords exceeded their role and greatly improved tenant satisfaction and stability.
Homesickness, in some cases, affects tenancy lengths, care of properties, and also communication all around. Students who feel supported tend to stay for the longest durations, recommend their properties to others, and maintain good communication with landlords. This way, landlords will have fewer voids and expenses and a better name in the rental market.
How can Landlords spot Homesick international Students?
Homesickness often shows up in subtle ways before it becomes a serious problem. Spotting these signs early helps landlords respond with empathy and avoid escalated issues.
Withdrawal from shared spaces or flatmates
Late-night calls home and signs of loneliness
Lack of interest in decorating or personalising their room
More frequent minor complaints or maintenance requests
Struggles with routine tasks, such as paying rent on time or keeping up with cleaning
Recognising these behaviours allows landlords to reach out gently, offering reassurance and practical support when needed. Early conversations reduce misunderstandings and set the foundation for a healthier landlord-tenant relationship.
What Welcome steps can Landlords take for International Students?
Creating a warm welcome from the start makes tenants feel valued and reduces anxiety. The first few weeks are often the hardest, so the effort invested here goes a long way.
Leave a small welcome note or starter pack with tea, biscuits, or local information
Provide a clear move-in guide with photos and instructions
Share emergency contact numbers and local GP registration details
Encourage introductions between new tenants
Offer a quick walk-through of the property and local transport links
These small gestures set a positive tone and help students feel supported from day one. A thoughtful welcome also reduces the uncertainty of moving to a new country and helps them adjust to UK life.
How can Landlords Encourage Social Connections for Homesick Students?
Homesickness eases when students form social ties and routines. Landlords can support this by creating opportunities for community and encouraging interaction.
Organise a simple welcome tea or shared meal
Share details of student societies or cultural associations
Recommend student-friendly cafés, libraries, or study spaces nearby
Allow notice boards for events and activities
Suggest local volunteering opportunities for students
Social connections help students build confidence and belonging, reducing the emotional distance from home. Encouraging shared experiences fosters a sense of community within the property and beyond.
What Communication Practices help Homesick International Students?
Clear communication reassures students and makes them more comfortable approaching landlords when issues arise. Landlords who are approachable and flexible often see fewer disputes and more satisfied tenants.
Provide multiple contact options such as email, phone, or messaging apps
Respond promptly to questions and requests
Use clear, simple language to avoid misunderstandings
Give them a guide with numbers for emergencies
Schedule occasional check-ins without being intrusive
Accessible communication prevents small concerns from becoming major stressors. Students often come from different cultural backgrounds where landlord-tenant expectations vary, so clarity is essential.
How can Landlords adapt Property Spaces for International Students?
The space itself makes a big difference in student life. If the room is comfortable, students settle in quickly. If it isn’t, homesickness can increase. Heating, lighting, and hot water must always be working. Small additions like shelves or pinboards let students add their own touch. Kitchens and shared areas need an easy cleaning routine that everyone can follow. Privacy should be respected while still allowing for some common space. Strong furniture is important for durability. When students can personalise their room, it begins to feel like home. A well-maintained house also reflects positively on the landlord and gives students pride in their living situation.
What Resources should Landlords share with Homesick International Students?
Sometimes the best support is pointing tenants to professional help and community resources. Having reliable information can make students feel less isolated and more confident.
University well-being services and student support offices
NHS 111 and local GP registration information
Local cultural or faith centres with contact details
Mental health helplines such as Samaritans (116 123)
Local council websites with information on safety and community events
Providing trusted resources shows care and gives tenants confidence that help is available when needed. Sharing this information early avoids panic in times of difficulty and makes students feel less alone.
Why should Landlords Care about Homesickness Beyond Kindness?
Supporting tenants isn’t just about empathy; it has measurable benefits for landlords. Homesick students who feel uncared for may leave early, costing landlords time and money. On the other hand, those who feel supported are more likely to stay longer and recommend the property.
Landlords who show care often benefit from:
Longer tenancy agreements
Fewer disputes and complaints
Positive online reviews and word-of-mouth referrals
Stronger relationships with local universities and communities
These outcomes demonstrate that kindness is also a good business practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is homesickness common among international students?
Yes, many international students experience homesickness during their first months, particularly around holidays and exam periods.
Q: Should landlords intervene directly in personal matters?
No. Landlords should remain professional but supportive, offering guidance and sharing resources rather than providing counselling themselves.
Q: Can simple changes to property design help reduce homesickness?
Yes. Comfortable communal areas, good lighting, and the ability to personalise private spaces can help tenants settle faster.
Q: Does helping homesick students really benefit landlords financially?
Yes. Tenants who feel supported are more likely to stay longer, reducing costly void periods and creating more stability for landlords.
Conclusion: Building trust and stability
Assisting international students with homesickness involves simple gestures of understanding and communication, but the rewards are high. Landlords experience happier tenants, fewer conflicts, and extended tenancies. At Student Tenant, we link landlords to international students looking for welcoming and supportive accommodation in the UK. This guide allows landlords to provide safe, welcoming, and comfortable stays for students.