Sydney has long been one of the top priority locations for international students. Not only is it a great place to gain a world-class education, but also a fantastic place to live. Furthermore, since students from all over the world prefer Sydney, there’s a real opportunity to experience and learn about various cultures and beliefs.
However, with the ECA reporting that Sydney is the most expensive city in the country, there may be genuine fears about the high cost of living. Still, fortunately, there are ways to find affordable accommodation if you are willing to put in the legwork, follow some simple steps and be flexible with your choice of location.
Whether you want to find accommodation close to UTS or somewhere else, below are some tips for renting a place to live at an affordable cost.
Consider Living Off-Campus
Living off-campus is almost always more affordable than living on campus. Universities do everything they can to keep students on campus. It’s a huge source of revenue for them. But, if you can find an affordable place off-campus, it might be worth looking into.
Living off-campus also gives you more freedom and control over your budget. Also, consider shared housing, which will also cut down your costs significantly.
Live With Other Students
There are plenty of ‘international student residences’ and ‘international student villages’ dotted around Sydney where you can live with like-minded people from all over Australia and around the world. This is a great way to meet new friends, learn a few Aussie slang words, and be right in the heart of an exciting city.
Get Familiar With Your Surroundings
There are lots of neighbourhoods in Sydney with affordable housing. It takes some looking around to find accommodation that works best for you.
Get familiar with your surroundings by researching which part of town has properties that suit your budget and lifestyle needs. Then, start reaching out. Schedule visits to view properties first before putting an offer down or signing any lease agreements. You may even be able to reduce your utility bills if your property has central heating or cooling.
Ask If Discounts Are Available
When you’re looking for student accommodation, don’t be afraid to ask if discounts are available. Some property managers and landlords offer these as incentives to attract tenants they otherwise might not get.
Don’t assume that you won’t negotiate because you’re a student. It never hurts to ask! If there are no available discounts, make sure you compare the rent with the amenities offered before you make your decision. You could end up saving big on rent.
Look For Properties With Free Amenities
If you’re on a budget, it is important to find accommodation that comes with complimentary amenities. There are plenty of properties with on-site gyms, pools, and 24/7 security. If these come at no extra cost, you can save money by taking advantage of them. They also make living away from home more enjoyable and safe.
Finding a cheap apartment isn’t always easy, but it should be much easier if you follow these tips. Make sure you do all your research before moving into a new place. And don’t be afraid to negotiate a better deal. If you know what you’re doing, finding a place shouldn’t be difficult.
