Rent broke in London? Here's how to find a flat that won't flatten your wallet
Living in London is a dream for many, but that dream can turn into a nightmare if you're staring down rent prices that make your bank account weep. Fear not, intrepid house-hunter! Here's your guide to finding a place in the Big Smoke that won't leave you skipping meals (unless it's because you're too busy exploring the city's amazing food scene).
Location, Location...Maybe a Little Less Location?
We all know the best places in London, but guess what? They also come with the biggest rent headaches. So, it's time to expand your horizons and explore some underrated gems. Ditch the postcode snobbery and consider areas like Croydon, Beckton, or even Walthamstow. You might be surprised by the cool bars, quirky shops, and friendly vibe – and your wallet will thank you.
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| How To Rent Cheap In London |
Embrace the Flat-share Force
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
Living solo in London? That's a recipe for rent-induced ramen noodles for dinner every night. Flatsharing is your friend. It's not just about splitting the bills (although that's a massive plus), it's about sharing the fun (and maybe some of the chores – we're looking at you, Dave from flat 2B who never washes the dishes). Gumtree, SpareRoom, and Facebook groups are all great places to find flatmates who are up for movie nights, pub crawls, and maybe even the occasional board game marathon (if that's your thing).
Think Small (But Not Too Small – We're Not Hobbits Here)
London isn't exactly known for its spacious apartments. But hey, there's a certain charm to cozy living, right? Studio flats can be a good option, especially if you're a minimalist or just don't plan on spending a lot of time indoors (London has too much to offer for that anyway). Just be prepared to get creative with your storage solutions – think ottomans with hidden compartments, under-bed boxes, and maybe even a strategically placed hanging plant to hide the inevitable mess.
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
Become a Guardian of the Rent
Guardianship schemes are a unique way to live in London for a fraction of the price. The idea is simple: you live in a property that's due for redevelopment in exchange for keeping it secure and reporting any issues. It's not for everyone – there can be shorter notice periods and some properties might be a little rough around the edges – but it's a great option for adventurous types who don't mind a bit of flexibility.
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Remember, It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
Finding the perfect cheap flat in London might take some time and effort. Don't get discouraged! Be prepared to do some viewings, be flexible with your move-in date, and hone your negotiation skills (remember, a charming smile can go a long way with a landlord).
FAQs
How to find flatmates in London?
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
- Gumtree, SpareRoom, and Facebook groups are all popular options.
How to save money on bills in a flat share?
- Communicate openly with your flatmates about energy usage and be mindful of shared spaces.
How to find a Guardian property in London?
- Search online for "London guardian schemes".
How much notice do you need to give when moving out of a flat in London?
- The standard notice period is usually one or two months.
What documents do I need to rent a flat in London?
- You'll typically need proof of ID, proof of income, and a reference from a previous landlord.
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