Currently in my fourth year preparing to move out of Edinburgh, I’ve realised that choosing good flatmates are one of the most important parts of the University experience. Having lived in several different environments, here are some of my tips on how to choose flatmates for next year:
- Ask preliminary questions
Before finding your flatmates, think about what you want out of your flat: How many people? Where would you like to live? Do you want a party flat or a quiet flat? How close do you want to be with your flatmates? What is your budget for rent? How long would you live there? There are no right or wrong answer to any of these questions, but you should have a similar answer to the people you are living with. When talking with potential flatmates, it’s a great idea to go out for coffee and discuss these questions.
- Flatmates don’t need to be friends
Some friends make amazing flatmates, but the dynamic of your friendship can change when you live together. This isn’t to dissuade you from living with your friends, but to say you can have a successful living experience with lots of different people. Some of my closest friends and I have better relationships because of a degree of separation.
I knew my current flatmate briefly before we moved in together. We have developed a very strong friendship by living together over the past two years and it’s been the longest of my flatshares. Our friendship has been shaped by our flat rather than being altered by it.
- Share the responsibilities of flat hunting
Make a groupchat with your future flatmates. Figure out the division of labour. Sharing listings with each other can be a really good start! Every flatmate should have a part in searching for a flat.
Rightmove and CityLets are all good starts. However, in my experience, it is best to apply on the site of the letting agency. This will make it more likely you get a viewing.
- Ask moving out students about their flats
Students move out of flats fairly often, with graduations and years abroad great opportunities to find places. If you know someone moving out, you can also see whether their room is available. While their flat is not guaranteed, they may be able to put in a good word to their letting agents.
- Decorate when you move in!
Above all, you should feel comfortable in your flat and with the people you live with. When I first moved into my second-year flat, I was very skeptical about adding my own decor. I never felt truly comfortable as the flat remained dull. When I moved into my current flat at the start of third-year, I started to decorate much more. Posters, candles, plants, and maps can really transform how you feel about your flat and an Ikea trip with your flatmates is always fun. Make your flat a place you look forward to coming home to after a long day of studying!