Student Accommodation Guide

But it doesn’t have to be. Hive Estates believes in keeping things simple. If you’re looking for your next student property, check out our step-by-step student accommodation guide and discover top tips to keep the whole process simple.

Step 1: Work out what you need.
Before you can start your search, you’ll need to work out how many people you’ll be living with, the area you want to live and how much you want to pay per person each week. Consider your budget carefully, as you don’t want to stretch yourself too far.

Step 2: Start searching with Hive Estates.
Hive is home to loads of perfect student properties in areas like Jesmond, Sandyford, Heaton and of course, Newcastle city centre. Use our website to start your search and save your favourites to ‘My Hives’ or share them with the people you’ll be living with on social media. If you’d prefer to speak to one of the Hive team about your search, get in touch.

Step 3: Arrange viewings
Get in touch to arrange viewings of the properties you’ve shortlisted. We’ll give you a tour of each and answer any questions you may have.

Step 4: Think it over
Deciding where you’ll live for the next year is a big decision, so think it over fully and talk about it with your future housemates. Make sure it’s right for you and, when you’re 100% sure, complete a reference form and choose your guarantor. Your guarantor is responsible for paying the rent or charges if you can’t. We’ll also ask them to pay a holding deposit, so we can reserve the property for you. After this, you’ll sign the tenancy agreement.

Step 5: We’ll check your references.
We’ll check your references and take your application from there. If you or your guarantor fails the check, we can discuss other options with you. If you and your guarantor pass the check, we’ll ask your guarantor to sign a deed of guarantee.

Step 6: Pay your holding deposit if you haven’t already.
This goes towards your fees and deposit. We’ll also ask you to pay your first month’s rent in advance and set up a standing order to make the following month’s payments.

Step 7: Collect your keys!
As well as your all-important keys, we’ll give you a welcome pack with all of the essential documents you’ll need. Celebrate — it’s move in day!