As we enter Semester Two, it’s time to start thinking about your accommodation for the next academic year. Whilst it’s still relatively early to be signing an accommodation contract, now it's a vital time to prepare for your search.

Key Considerations

• Budget: Not only will you have to consider the rent, but also utility bills, transport, groceries, entertainment, and general living costs. Use our budget guide to start organising your budget.
• Area: Brighton and Hove is a vibrant city with many distinct areas – visit our area guide for more information.
• Housemates: Living alone is usually more expensive, so most students will opt to share their accommodation. Use our House Hunt Facebook group to find other students to live with, or attend one of our Housemate Finder Sessions advertised via our Instagram and Facebook pages.
• When to Look: Agencies have already begun listing their properties for next year, and most properties will be listed over the coming weeks. We recommend that students try to secure housing in the Spring term, as the closer we get to Summer, the fewer properties you’ll have to choose from.

Finding a Property

Most properties will be listed online, but it’s also worth enquiring with a few local lettings agencies who can alert you to properties before they’re posted. 

We recommend using Sussex StudentPad, which is a site maintained by the University allowing landlords to advertise their properties to Sussex students. All properties and landlords listed on the site have been vetted in accordance with our own code of standards.

We enjoy a positive working relationship with the landlords advertising on Sussex StudentPad, allowing for a more positive student experience. 

In addition, the SU have their own lettings agency, Sussex Students’ Union Lettings, which is run by members of the University community.

Other popular sites include Rightmove, Zoopla, and StuRents, which are used by most agencies in the city.

Be Scam Aware

Unfortunately, each year we are made aware of several accommodation scams. 

Always request to see the property in person, never send more money than agreed, and always check for reviews first. If you’re unsure about a property or landlord, feel free to get in touch with Housing Services.

Learn More

View our full private sector guidance over at the Student Hub, and if you have any questions feel free to get in touch with a member of the Housing Services team.