The Iglu Guide | Blog
Top reasons to choose purpose-built student accommodation over private rentals

If you’re about to head off to university, it’s time to start thinking about where you want to live once you arrive. Choosing the best student accommodation to suit your individual needs will look different for every student, and it’s important to take some time to think about what you want from your student accommodation. Whilst there are plenty of options available, purpose-built student accommodation does have some distinct advantages. If you’re the type of student that enjoys the benefits of modern amenities, a built-in community and a great location, it could be just what you’re looking for. Here’s why it blows private rentals out the water.
Location advantage
Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) providers like Iglu understand how important location and accessibility are for students, especially if this is the first time living away from home. Our buildings are all situated in convenient locations, close to both transport options and university buildings with entertainment and lifestyle opportunities just footsteps away. This makes it super easy for students to settle in and get to know the new area, whilst saving on travel at the same time. Private rentals are often located some distance away from uni, which means allocating extra budget for travel costs as well as allowing for extended travel times. In reality that could mean some very early starts, and if your schedule requires you to attend events after hours, you may have to make some difficult choices that prevent you from maximising your student experience. With location a top priority for many incoming students, it’s hard to beat the benefits that PBSAs offer.
Modern facilities
PBSA buildings are designed with the contemporary student in mind, something that is unlikely to be the case with older style private rentals. Dedicated study areas enable you to separate out your academic life from your social life, giving you the opportunity to really focus on achieving your study goals. As well as featuring a cool modern design, Iglu offer all students:
- Private study spaces
- Shared study spaces
- Communal social spaces such as outdoor BBQ areas and movie rooms
- High speed wi-fi
- Private or shared accommodation options
- Ensuite bathrooms
- On-site support
- Secure bike storage
Enhanced safety and security
Living independently for the first time is a pretty big step, and this can be even more daunting for new students considering a private rental. If the property is located some distance from campus, there may be safety issues travelling alone after dark which can impact your ability to integrate fully socially and join in uni experiences. And unless you have rented the property as a group, you have little control over the type of housemates you are placed with – or whether they are even students. Iglu takes personal safety as a high priority, and is dedicated to keeping you safe and secure. With 24/7 security cameras and key card entry, we have full control over who is in the building at any time. And with onsite support services, our Resident Leaders are always on hand to help when needed. That reassuring peace of mind for students and parents alike is hard to find in private rentals.
Community on tap
The opportunities for socialising are far greater in purpose-built student accommodation than in private rentals because they are deliberately designed this way. For starters, there is a built-in student community just outside your door. Factor in the communal areas, organised social events as well as your friendly housemates, and you have plenty of options to be as social as you choose. Sharing experiences with your peers is key to helping you feel happy and settled away from home, and this type of supportive environment is not easily found in the private rental sector. The other benefit of PBSAs is that you’ll integrate with a diverse mix of cultures from around the world and meet other students from a huge variety of backgrounds. This enriches your overall experience, and helps you feel more settled.
All-inclusive bills
When you’re new to independent living there’s plenty to juggle without worrying about committing to long term rental contracts, sourcing utility providers and being responsible for fulfilling against all the bills. Iglu has one easy weekly bill that includes all your gas, electricity, and water costs as well as unlimited Wi-Fi provision. Opting for all-inclusive student accommodation really helps to takes the stress out of living away from home – without impacting your ability to enjoy independent living.
Hassle-free living
PBSA eliminates many of the challenges students face when they head off to university. While private rentals may have some appeal for being easier on the pocket, the reality is that PBSAs offer a well-rounded and stress-free living experience that enables students to really thrive during those early years of independent living.
- Simplified billing – less time juggling bills and more time to spend on what’s important to you
- Onsite attention – maintenance and repairs are handled promptly by an onsite team – avoid the stress of negotiating with uninterested landlords
- High speed Wi-Fi – you’ll never struggle to get work done
- Move straight in – fully-furnished apartments remove added expense and unnecessary complexity
- Top location – living within walking distance of university buildings and transport options puts you firmly in the heart of the action
- Straightforward rental agreement – enjoy the benefits of standardised contracts with no chance of encountering a difficult landlord