Almost half of students (49%) surveyed by Glide Utilities said their weekly rent represents good value for money, the firm has revealed.
The tenant survey also calculated the average weekly rent for students at £95, the same figure recorded in 2014.
The data has been released alongside a new report, What Students Seek, also compiled by Glide Utilities, which found that while three quarters of students are satisfied with their shared accommodation, this figure has been in slow decline year-on-year.
What’s more, 66% of students surveyed said they have experienced problems with the way their property is managed.
One of the biggest issues was a ‘lack of communication’, cited by 29% of student participants. A fifth also said intrusive or unannounced visits and inspections were a problem, meanwhile 39% highlighted a lack of response on maintenance issues, and 28% said poor property upkeep was a problem.
Part of the research, which surveyed student landlords and letting agents, found that 15% fear they won’t let all their student properties by the start of the next academic year
The report also highlights that students are increasingly looking for more comfort when it comes to private rentals. Well over half expressed their desire for a double bed in their room, and a third said they would like en-suite bathroom facilities.
Aside from this, practicality governs the majority of their decisions. Fast internet access is by far the most popular item on their wish list (83%), while good storage (72%) was the second most popular response.
The research also revealed that some students are beginning to prioritise their studies over socialising. Over half of those surveyed said it’s very important to be close to the university and 31% highlighted the need for good transport links.
James Villarreal, CEO of Glide Utilities, commented: “The secret to gaining student appeal in 2015 is definitely ‘more is more’. While the majority of students are satisfied with their accommodation, we can’t ignore the fact that this figure is gradually falling. This isn’t because conditions are slipping, necessarily, but that student expectations are rising.
“We’ve seen this in our own business and have made changes to keep attracting more customers. Our findings highlight exactly what students seek, when it comes to private rented accommodation, and will help landlords and agents make the right practical, changes, without breaking the bank.”
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What about the other half?
"66% of students surveyed said they have experienced problems with the way their property is managed"
Surely this is the more pertinent point? Seems like students are demanding more than squalid little hovels to live in these days, prioritising study over socialising. Bit different from my (very distant now) student days. I suppose they're paying so much to be there, they feel obliged to get as good a degree mark as possible.
The student market can be lucrative if a landlord really knows what he's doing. Don't expect long-term returns on investment, but the regular, stable rental income is pretty much guaranteed if you market your property well and buy in the right locations.
Glad to see many students thinking their rent represents good value for money, too. I was under the impression that all landlords are in it for themselves, money grabbers - at least that's what some posters on here would have you believe.
"average weekly rent for students at £95"
Not in London, I'd wager.
"66% of students have experienced problems with the way their property is managed" - I'm not surprised. Often students are treated with a complete lack of respect in their property as agents and landlords alike are more than aware than ever that students are in high supply.
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