WHAT PROPERTY SHOULD I LOOK FOR?
​
First of all, think carefully about the type of property you'd like to rent and which best suits your lifestyle.
For example, if you are only there during the week, a small place might do just fine.  If security is important, then a ground floor flat may be out. If you have a car, then a parking space is a must.
​
Do you want furnished or unfurnished accommodation or would something that's just part-furnished be okay? Often it doesn't make much difference to the rent.
​
If it's furnished and you are sharing with others, do you trust them to look after the furniture - because you may lose some or all of your deposit to pay for damage even if they are responsible for it?
 

Other key questions to ask yourself:​​

• Is a purpose built shower essential or can you make do with a shower attachment in the bath?

• What facilities are there for washing and drying clothes?

• Does the property have all the appliances you need?

• Do you need a garden?

• Are you prepared to share with someone else - if so, could you share with a live-in landlord?