By Staff Writer

Viewing of properties for the next letting year has been available since January 2009. There has always been a surplus of housing for rent in Leeds; but despite the good things you’ve been hearing from your friends and landlords, rushing out and signing for a property straight away is discouraged. Often, those who rush to sign up early get the worst deals.

To find the best accommodation for the next academic year, find time to get and understand the information provided by your University or College about house hunting. Attend house hunting events for students if you want to meet people to share with. Using a managing agent to look for your accommodation is also an option. Students make use of the services of managing agents to be able to see more properties quickly and there is always an air of professionalism in this method. If your agency offers only a let only service, it is necessary to ask who the actual landlord is. In this manner, you could check the contract and find out if the landlord is part of the Code of Standards since your agency will have no more responsibilities to you once the property is let.

Make sure also to find time to talk to the current tenants privately about the property and their experiences in dealing with the landlord or agency. The information you will get in this manner would help you find the best deal. Most agencies charge sign up fees for setting up the contract. Prior to committing to take the property, make sure that you are aware of the fees that you have to pay to the agency.

Next step in Leeds house hunting is to find out the accommodation that suits your preference. For Jewish students, Leeds Student Chabad House would be your best choice. The house provides Chabbat meals, classes, events and programs for the students. Staying in this house is a wonderful way of meeting other Jewish students. As the house motto says, Judaism with a smile, you will certainly experience the smile along with good food, a refreshing atmosphere and lots of fun.

Another exceptional student house at Leeds is at Central Headingley. The house is fully renovated with top class accommodation. It has eight large study bedrooms with a gas fired central heating system. The living room is large with a high definition LCD TV and its kitchen and bathrooms are luxurious. It proximity to the campus is an advantage, only 20 minutes walk away and has a bus stop to city center and University.

Another option when staying at Leeds is to share in a flat. When this option is preferred, make sure that you have read and understood flat sharing guidelines. Study also the types of let available and identify the major differences they have. Looking for a flatmate has to be considered also. Be ready to co-exist with your flat mate so that your flat share will be a happy and harmonious one.