The Iglu Guide | Blog
The 5 biggest myths about shared student accommodation
Heading to university and thinking about a house share? Moving out of home is a pretty big step, and you’ll want to make sure you get it right. Shared living is a popular choice for many students in terms of meeting new friends and being close to the action. But if you’re getting lost down a rabbit hole of mixed reviews, here’s how to separate fact from fiction.
1. Zero privacy
Many students fear that living with other students will mean a constant distraction, but this is entirely within your own control. Shared accommodation is not really so different to your own home – just without the parental control. Your bedroom is where you can expect complete privacy to rest and study, and the remainder of the house is available for communal use. In any house share, it’s a good idea to agree boundaries up front that include noise control and acceptable after-hours behaviour. This will ensure you get the space you need and make for a much happier household. Iglu share apartments are a popular student choice, with private bedroom and bathroom facilities available as well as access to extra study spaces when needed. The built-in student community means there’s plenty of opportunity for distraction just outside the door.
2. Away from the action
Budget constraints often mean that student housing isn’t always located in the heart of the action. Location is a genuine consideration when choosing your accommodation. If you would prefer to be living closer to university with reduced journey times, there are alternative student housing options that may suit you better. Iglu has a range of awesome locations in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney that are designed to put you right where you need to be – and with shared apartments on offer, you’ll never have to compromise on your student living experience.
3. No private facilities
Hard to deny, most student houses are not designed with your ultimate comfort in mind, and you are fairly unlikely to find a student rental complete with ensuite facilities and private study areas that’s within budget. On the bright side, shared accommodation is a great learning opportunity for successful co-habitation, turn-taking, communication and organisational skills. If you like the house share idea but really need the privacy, head to Iglu for a range of share apartments that all offer private bedrooms with an ensuite in most.
4. Leases and bills are super complicated
Rental leases can be complicated, and there are definitely some not-so-nice landlords out there that will take advantage of fresh-faced students just out of school. Use an agent where possible as this will help you fully understand the implications and terms of your lease. Setting up energy and telecoms is not a difficult task, but it can be a huge time suck and will inevitably fall to one person to sort out. It can get complicated if housemates leave, because chasing up bill payment is never easy or fun. If you prefer a more stress-free approach, Iglu’s bills are all-inclusive with no surprises or disconnection threats to worry about.
5. No furniture provided
Not all share houses are devoid of furniture, although you should be prepared to provide some if required. A common myth is that students only need a bed to get going. The truth is, a comfortable environment is going to help you settle into university much more quickly, particularly if this is your first time living away from home. You’ll want somewhere to store your clothes, a desk to work from, somewhere relaxing to sit that’s away from your bedroom area and kitchen equipment. All Iglu apartments are fully furnished, which means all you need to worry about is enjoying student life.
