This short, friendly guide is for UK landlords who want straightforward, easy steps to make their student lets work better. If you wish to have fewer empty months and more steady rent, this will help. Think simple fixes, honest photos, clear prices, and use our student accommodation listing to reach students early and easily. This write-up will guide you through some practical steps you can undertake during the weekend and demonstrate how little differences can be made to get students to select your rooms first.
Where should I rent near campus?
Students like short trips to lectures and shops, so location matters more than you might expect. Pick places with good buses or walking paths. Nearby shops, safe streets, and simple transport beat fancy extras every time.
Choose neighbourhoods within 20–30 minutes of the main campuses.
Look for good bus links and nearby train stations.
Avoid areas with repeated noise or late-night trouble reports.
Consider distance to groceries, laundrettes, and cheap eateries.
Students want a steady, safe route to class and stores. A room near simple transport and basic shops will fill faster than a pretty flat that is far from campus. Good location cuts down on complaints and late arrivals. Keep paths lit, list nearby stops in your advert, and show walking times in your photos to make the choice obvious.
How should I price my rooms?
Set a fair price that matches what students expect for the area and what you offer inside. Be clear if bills are in or out so they can compare quickly. Too high scares them off, too low brings problems later.
Research other rents locally for similar rooms.
Decide if rent includes bills or not, and list it clearly.
Offer discounts for early bookings or full-year payments.
Consider a slightly higher rent for better furnishings or broadband.
A clear price makes students trust you and speeds up bookings. If bills are messy, students will skip your listing. Showing simple totals and what’s included removes doubt and increases serious enquiries. Balance rent with what you add: a tidy, warm room with internet is worth a bit more and will be chosen faster.
What upgrades matter most?
Small, useful upgrades win students’ hearts more than luxurious touches. A proper desk, good light, and storage beat expensive decor. Think about what helps you study and daily life, not what looks best in a magazine.
Provide a decent desk and chair in each room.
Fit a good broadband or mention the internet speed.
Ensure a washing machine or shared laundry access.
Replace tired carpets with easy-to-clean flooring if possible.
Students judge a room by comfort and convenience. A neat study corner and fast WiFi make a room feel ready for term one. Clean floors and fresh paint signal care and cut down complaints. Focus on durability, low upkeep, and items that help with exams, like a quiet study nook and good light.
How do I find good students?
Good tenants keep the place tidy and pay on time, so ask for small checks that help you sleep at night. A quick chat, a few refs, and simple rules often do the trick. Don’t overcomplicate it; people are straightforward when you are.
Ask for one reference from a previous landlord or employer.
Use a short viewing or virtual call to gauge seriousness.
Offer a clear tenancy agreement and house rules upfront.
Consider a guarantor for overseas students or those without UK credit.
Taking a little time to vet applicants pays off by cutting repair work and disputes later. A calm, kind meeting often shows who cares for the home. Have a few simple rules about cleaning, noise, and visitors, and make them clear before signing. Good tenants want clear expectations and fair treatment.
FAQ
Q: How long should student tenancies last?
Most landlords use 9–12 month or 48–51 week contracts to match the academic year. Shorter or flexible starts can help catch late-arriving students.
Q: Should I include bills in the rent?
Including bills makes budgeting easy for students and can attract international renters. If you do not include bills, list typical monthly costs so tenants can compare.
Q: Do I need special safety checks?
Yes. Ensure working smoke alarms, clear emergency exits, and up-to-date electrical checks. Safety reassures students and reduces disputes.
Q: What if tenants cause damage?
Use a clear deposit and an inventory at check-in. Take photos and write down issues so you can sort repairs fairly later.
Q: How early should I advertise?
Start listing months before term begins; many students book early. Early adverts mean more choices and quicker lets for you.
Conclusion
If you want steady bookings and happier tenants, these simple steps work. Keep rooms ready for study, be clear about money and rules, and reply quickly to enquiries. Use good photos, list nearby travel times, and offer basic comforts like a desk and a washer. Doing a few small upgrades and being honest in your adverts will cut voids and bring better rent. When you are ready to list and reach more students, consider StudentTenant.com as your student accommodation provider to help with visibility and enquiries. Thank you for reading. Feel free to ask for a short checklist or a social caption to promote your listing.