Again I have to thank Jennifer for this post as it is taken from an e-mail she wrote to another student in response to a question about finding off-campus accommodation. I was just looking over it and again, realised that it was so full of useful information that I thought I should post it on our blog. As always if anyone has anything to add or disagrees then feel free to leave a comment.
‘Finding housing off-campus is not a problem. You can start looking now for a place on the internet, but if you’re like me you might want to see it in person before signing. It’s a good idea to come a couple weeks beforehand not only to find a flat but to get adjusted to being in a new place before the course starts, too.
While you’re looking, the cheapest places to stay are at a guest house, a bed and breakfast, or in Glasgow Uni’s temporary accommodations. Try filling out hotel and residence enquiry forms at: http://www.cvso.co.uk/accommodation/accm_intro_300905.htm. CVSO is affiliated with the University and give discounts on hotels. It’s best to book soon in time for the end of the summer. You can also look online for guest houses/B&Bs bordering on Kelvingrove Park/Sauchiehall Street or on Great Western Road to be close to the Uni. The three I’ve tried and found to be fine are:www.alamoguesthouse.com
The University’s Residential Services give a great overview of how to get started, where to look, and what to look for in off-campus housing, or private accommodations: www.accom.gla.ac.uk. You have to register for the database, but the registration number on your acceptance letter should do the trick. I highly recommend this database, as the landlords seemed like the most enthusiastic ones in helping students when I was looking for a place. As would always be the case, please inspect each place carefully to make sure they are following the rules (as outlined in the PAD site mentioned). Also see the Student Representative Council site http://www.src.gla.ac.uk/advice/accommodation/ for helpful advice.Another route to try is the multitude of ads posted in the window of a convenience store on Byres Rd, a bit south of University Ave. It will be the one with little pieces of paper all over the inside of the store window – and with the people squinting at it carefully with pen and paper in hand. On top of that, there are some private companies that specifically provide student housing: www.unite-students.com, for one (there’s another but I’m not finding the web address at the moment). You can also search online for places. Try flats to rent/let in Glasgow at:http://glasgow.gumtree.com
www.accommodationforstudents.com
One warning when you look for places to share: look to share with other postgrad students. For one, there is a tax on renting called Council Tax which you don’t have to pay at all if you’re a full-time student living only with other students – and if you fill out their exemption form. ‘
More info on University accommodation in our next post… I hope.
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