Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

Navigating the student housing can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to find that perfect spot that feels like home without breaking the bank. Having lived in six different countries and moved countless times, I’ve navigated the tricky waters of finding a new place to call home on numerous occasions. Each move taught me new strategies for securing the right accommodation, whether I was settling into a bustling city centre or a quiet suburban neighbourhood. In this blog, I’ll share some insider tips that have worked wonders for me, helping you streamline your search for the perfect student accommodation, no matter where your studies might take you.

Choosing the Right Platform

Many students start their housing search on popular websites but often overlook specialized sections that could lead to better deals. For example, on daft.ie, there’s a lesser-known option under the ‘Rent’ section labelled ‘Student Accommodation’. This feature specifically lists available rooms in shared houses rather than entire flats or houses, making it ideal for students. 

Stay on Top of Listings

One of the most effective strategies to stay ahead in the housing game is to enable email notifications on housing websites like daft.ie and Studentpad. By setting filters that match your preferences, you receive updates directly to your inbox, allowing you to contact landlords promptly. This proactive approach ensures your inquiries stand out and don’t get lost in the flood of responses that landlords often receive. 

Crafting Your Contact Message

When you reach out to landlords, your initial message can make a big difference. Don’t just stick to basics like your name and nationality. Instead, enhance your message by including details about your hobbies, your experience living abroad or in shared environments, your area of study, and personal habits like smoking or pet ownership. Also, mention that you can provide reference letters. Such details paint a clearer picture of who you are and help you stand out from other potential tenants. 

Flexible Move-In Dates

Many students look for accommodations aligning with semester start dates, typically in September or February. However, exploring options for an earlier move-in, like August for the fall semester or January for the spring, can give you a competitive edge. Many landlords prefer tenants who can move in immediately. If you won’t be there right away, you might negotiate to pay half the rent until you arrive. This flexibility can be mutually beneficial, and many landlords are open to such negotiations.

Collaborating with Fellow Students 

An effective strategy for securing accommodation is to team up with other students. Apps like ‘ULCampusConnect’ allow you to connect with fellow students who are also in search of housing. By pooling resources, you can rent a larger space, such as a house with multiple rooms, which might otherwise be unaffordable individually. This approach not only opens a part of the market that is less competitive among students but also enhances your living experience by sharing it with peers who have similar academic and lifestyle needs. 

Negotiating Beyond the Listing 

Don’t be deterred by listings that seem strict with their terms. Unless a listing explicitly states restrictions like “only 5 days a week” or “immediate move only,” there’s often room to negotiate. Adjust the moving date to suit your needs and engage in a dialogue with the landlord. This flexibility can lead to favourable terms that aren’t apparent at first glance. 

Beware of Housing Scams 

As exciting as the hunt for the perfect student accommodation can be, it’s crucial to remain vigilant against scams, which are unfortunately common in cities with high housing demand. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself: 

• Verify in Person: The safest way to secure accommodation is to see it yourself. If you can’t visit personally, try to have someone you trust inspect the place on your behalf. 

• Use Technology to Your Advantage: If visiting in person isn’t possible, request a video call with the landlord. Ask for a tour of the apartment and a view of the street outside to confirm its existence and condition. Afterwards, compare the street view to images on Google Maps to verify the location. 

• Check Ownership Credentials: During your communications, ask for a copy of the owner’s official document to confirm their identity and ownership. Use the Irish Land Registry’s website at landdirect.ie to validate property ownership. Here, by entering the property’s Eircode and paying a fee (around €5), you can access official documents that confirm who legally owns the property. 

• Safe Payment Practices: Always opt for payments via IBAN transfers rather than through services like Revolut, Wise, or other non-bank platforms. IBAN payments can be traced by banks and can facilitate investigations if any issues arise. 

By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and ensure that your transition to your new home is as smooth and safe as possible. Happy house hunting!