Renting a house as a university student in Malaysia can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. You need to have some preparation before you move into your accommodation.
Whether you plan to walk, drive, or use public transport, understanding your travel needs until signing the tenant agreement is essential for choosing a suitable accommodation.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about renting a house as a university student in Malaysia, ensuring you make the best choice for your needs and lifestyle.
5 Steps to Rent a House as a University Student
Step 1: Understanding Your Daily Travel Routine
a) Walk to the University
Walking to your campus can be a healthy and cost-effective option, but it is crucial to consider the distance and potential challenges.
Renting a house near your university can save you time and energy. However, it would be best to prepare for unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, which can make walking inconvenient.
Unpredictable weather can disrupt your routine and affect your punctuality.
Additionally, consider the physical demands; walking long distances can be exhausting and impact your energy levels for classes, especially under hot and humid weather conditions.
It is essential to consider your health and any physical limitations before you plan to do so. If you have any health issues, it might be wise to look for other options.
b) Driving to the University
If you plan to drive, you have more flexibility in choosing your accommodation. Renting a house slightly farther from your university might be feasible with a car.
However, while driving offers convenience, it’s crucial to consider potential drawbacks such as heavy traffic jams during peak hours, road accidents, road maintenance, and unexpected car breakdown issues.
Ensure you account for travel time and unexpected delays. Owning a car offers flexibility but requires you to be diligent about upkeep and punctuality to avoid being late for classes.
Always plan your travel time and have a backup plan in case of car problems. Do remember to factor in fuel expenses, parking, and car maintenance.
c) Using Public Transport to the University
Public transport is an excellent choice for reducing carbon emissions and saving money. It’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and avoids the hassles of driving.
However, it requires meticulous planning and punctuality. Familiarize yourself with the schedules and routes of buses, LRT, or MRT, and know the travel time, number of stations, and any necessary transfers.
Missing a bus or train can disrupt your entire day, so always have a backup plan for delays. Proper preparation and knowing your journey details can ensure a smooth commute and timely arrival.
Step 2: Conducting Market Research
a) Rental Prices
Conducting thorough market research is vital for university students to find suitable houses to rent. Start by understanding rental prices in various areas, as these can vary significantly depending on location and amenities.
Student-focused accommodation might be more affordable, while exclusive neighborhoods may be pricier due to their amenities.
Proximity to universities or public transport can also affect rental costs, with closer areas being more expensive but offering greater convenience.
Conversely, areas farther away might be cheaper but involve added travel time and expenses. Understanding these variations will help you find a good deal that suits your needs and budget.
b) Types of Room, Facilities, and Amenities
Research the facilities and amenities offered by the accommodations. Look for features such as swimming pools, gyms, study rooms, or badminton courts.
Determine whether the place is fully furnished, partially furnished, or unfurnished, as a fully furnished unit can save you the hassle of buying furniture.
It’s also essential to understand the room layout, which typically includes small, medium, and master rooms. Small and medium rooms often share a bathroom, while master rooms have private bathrooms.
Additionally, consider the proximity to amenities like grocery stores, shopping malls, and public transport, as these can significantly enhance your daily convenience.
Comparing different locations and their amenities will help you find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget. Use online platforms such as IQI Global or rental groups to gather insights and make informed decisions.
c) IQI Global
IQI Global allows university students to find suitable accommodation for the best rental experience.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio near campus or a shared apartment with friends, our platform offers a wide range of options to suit your needs and budget.
With user-friendly search features, detailed property listings, and secure booking processes, you can easily find the perfect place to call home during your studies.
Plus, our dedicated support team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Click here to view the IQI Global page
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Step 3: Comparing and Filtering Accommodation
a) Criteria for Comparison
After identifying potential accommodations, compare the top options based on price, location, amenities, etc.
Consider the strategic factors such as proximity to shopping malls, public transport, and restaurants. Narrow down your choices to the top five accommodations that meet your criteria.
b) Making a Shortlist
Create a shortlist of your best five desired houses and prepare for the next steps. This list will help you stay organized and focused during the viewing and decision-making.
Step 4: Contacting Agents and Viewing Rooms
a) Making Appointments
Contacting agents and arranging room viewings is crucial for making an informed decision. Seeing the rooms in person allows you to assess their size, condition, and suitability.
If you intend to share the accommodation with friends, bring them along for the viewing to ensure everyone is satisfied. It’s better to view multiple options rather than settling on the first one you see.
b) Questions to Ask
During the property viewing, ask about rental agreements, extra fees, maintenance procedures, available amenities, property facilities, and the surrounding area.
Raise any questions or concerns and ensure you understand your tenant’s obligations.
Step 5: Finalizing Your Decision
a) Room Select and House Inspection
Once you’ve viewed the rooms and weighed your options, it’s time to select the best fit.
Carefully consider all aspects, including the room and house conditions, and choose the option that best suits your needs and budget.
Before you move in, thoroughly inspect the property to ensure everything is in good condition.
Report any issues with furniture or appliances to the agent to avoid future misunderstandings. Taking these steps will help ensure a smooth and satisfactory rental experience.
a) Signing the Tenant Agreement
Before signing the tenant agreement, view it carefully to ensure all terms and conditions, including your name, identification number, address, rental price, rental period, furniture listing, and security and utility deposit amounts, are correct.
After signing, promptly clear all payments and request receipts from the landlord to avoid any future misunderstandings. Keep a copy of the tenant agreement for future reference.
Congratulations! You have successfully rented a house as a university student in Malaysia!
Tips After Renting a House
a) Maintaining the Property
Once you move in:
- Take care of the house and its facilities.
- Divide responsibilities among housemates to keep the space clean and safe.
- Promptly report any issues to the landlord.
b) Timely Payments
- Always pay your rent before the deadline to avoid penalties.
- Keeping a good relationship with your landlord can be beneficial in the long run.
Renting a house as a university student in Malaysia can be a smooth and rewarding experience with the right approach.
With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to find a comfortable and convenient place that meets your needs and enhances your academic experience. Happy house hunting!
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