Apartment Hunting Tips for Students

Finding the right apartment as a student can feel overwhelming. You may have a tight budget, limited experience, and a long list of things to consider — like safety, location, and roommates. But with the right approach, you can find a place that fits your needs and supports your study life. This guide will walk you through key apartment hunting tips designed just for students.

Set a Realistic Budget First

Before you start searching, figure out how much you can afford. Don’t just think about rent — include:

• Utilities (electricity, gas, internet)

• Groceries and transport

• One-time costs like deposits, moving fees, and furniture

A general rule is to keep rent at no more than 30–40% of your monthly income (including any support from family, part-time jobs, or student loans). Knowing your limit helps narrow your search.

Choose the Right Location

Location affects everything — your commute, safety, and even how much you spend.

Look for places that are:

• Close to your campus or have good public transport nearby

• Near grocery stores, cafés, libraries, and other essentials

• In safe, well-lit neighborhoods

Even if an apartment is cheap, it may not be worth it if you spend hours traveling or don’t feel safe.

Decide If You Want Roommates

Living with roommates can save money, but it also means sharing space and responsibilities.

Before choosing to live with someone, consider:

• Are they clean, quiet, and respectful of study time?

• Will you split bills and chores fairly?

• Are they also students or working different hours?

It’s best to talk openly about expectations before moving in together.

Start Your Search Early

The best apartments near universities often get rented quickly — sometimes months in advance. Try to start your search at least 2–3 months before you need to move.

Use websites like:

• Domain.com.au

• Flatmates.com.au

• Realestate.com.au

• Uni housing boards or Facebook groups

Keep track of listings and be ready to book inspections early.

Visit in Person (If You Can)

Photos online can be misleading. Always try to inspect the apartment in person. If you’re moving from far away, ask someone you trust to go for you or request a live video tour.

During the visit, check:

• Water pressure and hot water

• Signs of mold, pests, or damage

• Locks on windows and doors

• Natural light and ventilation

• Phone signal and internet access

Take notes or photos to compare places later.

Read the Lease Carefully

Before signing anything, read the rental agreement fully. Look for:

• How long the lease lasts (fixed-term or month-to-month)

• What’s included in the rent (e.g., water, furniture)

• The bond amount and conditions for getting it back

• Rules about guests, noise, and maintenance

If anything is unclear, ask questions or get advice from a student housing office or legal aid service.

Watch Out for Scams

Sadly, student renters are often targeted by scams. Be cautious if:

• The landlord refuses to meet in person

• You’re asked to pay money before seeing the property

• The rent seems too low for the area

Always deal with trusted websites and never send money before signing a legal lease.

Know Your Tenant Rights

Every state in Australia has rental laws that protect tenants. Learn your rights — such as notice periods, bond protection, and maintenance rules — through your local government website or student union. Knowing your rights can help if problems come up during your lease.

Final Thoughts

Apartment hunting as a student doesn’t have to be stressful. Start early, know your budget, ask the right questions, and focus on safety and convenience. With the right steps, you’ll find a place that supports your studies and helps you enjoy your student life.