If you’re planning to attend a university in Singapore and have decided that you’d rather live off campus rather than on campus, it’s best to start looking for housing several months in advance. Here’s what you’ll need to consider.
1. Start your research early
Familiarise yourself with the housing options near your university, so you can shortlist where you want to stay. For a start, you can explore online property portals, reach out to property agents or seek recommendations from current students, alumni or friends.
If you’re looking to rent a room, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from including HDB flats, co-living units in condos, and other private apartments. You might want to create a spreadsheet so that you can compare rental prices and the proximity to your university.
2. Check university resources
Check whether your university provides resources or guidance on housing. The official website is a good place to start or you can also contact the student services for any information or assistance they can offer.
3. Start actively looking for accommodation at least 3 months before
About 3 to 6 months before your first semester starts, you should actively look for your accommodation. This is because you’ll need to browse and shortlist listings and schedule viewings. Starting your search early will also give you ample time to negotiate rental terms and complete the necessary paperwork.
4. Consider availability
You’ll need to keep in mind that availability of housing can vary greatly depending on the time of the year. Certain condos in close proximity to your university that are usually popular with students can be in high demand prior to the start of the academic year. So the earlier you start your search, the better the chances of securing your preferred accommodation before it gets rented out.
5. Visit the accommodation
It’s always a good idea to visit the accommodation in person before making a decision so that you can inspect the place, look out for any signs of damages, check out amenities nearby and get a general sense of the vibe of the area.
This will also give you first-hand experience of the transport options available. After all, you don’t want to travel too far to your uni. If there’s a bus stop or MRT station close to the unit with transport options headed in the direction of your university, that’d be a great plus point. Close proximity to supermarkets, convenience stores and F&B options such as hawker centers and food courts are also things you should watch out for.
Remember, securing suitable accommodation takes time. So give yourself enough time to explore your options, compare prices and make informed decisions. Starting your search in advance will increase your chances of finding the right place to live during your time in university.
If you’re looking for a co-living unit, don’t forget to explore some of our co-living spaces now.
