Securing your next home
Finding next year's house doesn't have to be overwhelming. Follow this guide to navigate the process with confidence.
Your Budget & Requirements
Before starting your search, determine how much you can afford to spend on rent and bills. Factor in your student loan, any part-time income, and contributions from family. Most student houses in Bristol range from £400–£700 per person per month excluding bills.
Top tips
- Use online bill calculators to estimate utilities
- Check if rent includes bills — some do, most don't
- Factor in council tax exemption (full-time students are exempt)
Find Housemates
Decide who you want to live with next year. Think about friends, classmates, or people from your course or societies who have similar lifestyles and budgets. Be upfront about how much everyone is willing to spend.
Top tips
- Use Housenote's Flatmate Finder to connect with other students
- Discuss budgets, lifestyles, and house preferences early
- Consider group size — larger groups have more options but are harder to coordinate
Search for Properties
Use Housenote to search for houses or flats that match your group's criteria. We aggregate listings from every agent in Bristol, so you'll see everything in one place. Set your preferences and we'll notify you instantly when new properties appear.
Top tips
- Set up notifications on Housenote so you never miss a listing
- Be proactive — good properties get taken quickly
- Check listings regularly, especially in peak season (Oct–Jan)
Arrange & Attend Viewings
Treat viewings as an important step — renting a property is a significant financial commitment. Take notes and photos during the viewing, and don't hesitate to ask the landlord or agent questions about the property or tenancy.
Top tips
- Check water pressure, heating, and window condition
- Ask about the energy rating and average bill costs
- Look for signs of damp, mould, or poor maintenance
- Don't feel pressured to decide on the spot
Apply for the Property
After viewing, discuss with your housemates which property you prefer. Make sure everyone is on board before moving forward. Contact the estate agent promptly to express your interest — this usually involves completing application forms.
Top tips
- Have ID and references ready to speed up the process
- Ensure all housemates fill out forms ASAP
- In competitive markets, the first complete application often wins
Sign the Tenancy Agreement
If your application is accepted, carefully read the tenancy agreement before signing. Make sure you understand your responsibilities, the deposit amount, notice periods, and any break clauses. Keep a copy of everything.
Top tips
- Check if your deposit is protected in a government scheme
- Understand the difference between joint and individual tenancies
- Note the inventory — document any existing damage with photos
Move In & Enjoy
Pay your deposit, sign the agreement, and you've secured your house for next year! Before moving in, take meter readings, set up bill accounts, and do a thorough inventory check. Then make it home.
Top tips
- Take photos of everything on move-in day
- Set up a joint account or bill-splitting app for shared costs
- Register with a local GP and update your address
Ready to start searching?
Download Housenote and get notified the moment a property matches your preferences.