Liverpool
Shared Housing
Shared accommodations such as house shares or flatshares, popular with young professionals or students.
Sections
1. Overview of Shared Housing in Liverpool
Shared housing typically involves renting a room in a house or flat with other tenants. Common areas such as the kitchen, living room, and bathroom(s) are shared among the occupants. This arrangement is ideal for those looking to save on costs while enjoying a social living environment.
Liverpool, being a vibrant city with a large student population and a growing number of professionals, offers a wide range of shared housing options. These are available in various neighborhoods, catering to different budgets and preferences.
2. Types of Shared Housing Available
In Liverpool, shared housing options include:
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Student Houses (Houses in Multiple Occupation - HMOs):
- Popular among university students.
- Typically located near university campuses (e.g., areas like Kensington, Wavertree, and Smithdown Road).
- Often fully furnished and include utilities in the rent.
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Flatshares:
- Common among young professionals and individuals seeking short-term stays.
- Flats are usually modern and located in central areas like the city center, Baltic Triangle, or Ropewalks.
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Co-Living Spaces:
- A newer concept offering fully furnished rooms with shared amenities like gyms, coworking spaces, and communal lounges.
- Found in premium developments in areas like the city center or waterfront.
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Lodging with Live-In Landlords:
- Renting a room in a house where the landlord also resides.
- Often more affordable but with stricter house rules.
3. Costs of Shared Housing
The cost of shared housing in Liverpool varies depending on the location, type of property, and included amenities. Below is a general breakdown:
-
Student Houses (HMOs):
- ยฃ300โยฃ450 per month per room (bills often included).
-
Flatshares:
- ยฃ350โยฃ600 per month per room (bills may or may not be included).
-
Co-Living Spaces:
- ยฃ600โยฃ900 per month (all-inclusive, with premium amenities).
-
Lodging with Live-In Landlords:
- ยฃ250โยฃ400 per month (bills usually included).
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Deposit: Typically equivalent to 4โ6 weeksโ rent.
- Utilities: If not included, expect to pay ยฃ50โยฃ100 per month for electricity, gas, water, and internet.
- Council Tax: If youโre not a student, you may need to pay council tax. Shared housing tenants usually split this cost. Council tax in Liverpool varies by property band but averages ยฃ100โยฃ150 per month for a shared house.
4. How to Find Shared Housing in Liverpool
There are several ways to find shared housing in Liverpool:
Online Platforms:
- Spareroom.co.uk: A popular platform for finding flatshares and rooms in shared houses.
- Rightmove.co.uk and Zoopla.co.uk: Useful for finding shared housing listings.
- Facebook Groups: Search for groups like "Liverpool Flatshare" or "Liverpool Rooms to Rent."
University Accommodation Services:
- If youโre a student, check your universityโs accommodation office for shared housing options or recommendations.
Letting Agents:
- Many letting agents in Liverpool specialize in shared housing. Examples include:
- LPS Liverpool
- Atlas Estate Agents
- Acorn Properties
Word of Mouth:
- Networking with friends, colleagues, or fellow students can help you find shared housing opportunities.
5. Application or Rental Process
The process of renting shared housing in Liverpool typically involves the following steps:
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Search and View Properties:
- Arrange viewings to inspect the property and meet potential housemates.
-
Submit an Application:
- Provide proof of identity (passport or driverโs license).
- Submit proof of income or a guarantor (if required).
- For students, a university enrollment letter may be needed.
-
Sign the Tenancy Agreement:
- Read the agreement carefully before signing.
- Ensure it specifies the rent amount, deposit, tenancy duration, and any house rules.
-
Pay the Deposit and First Monthโs Rent:
- The deposit is held in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme (e.g., DPS, TDS, or MyDeposits).
-
Move In:
- Conduct an inventory check with the landlord or letting agent to document the propertyโs condition.
6. Legal and Cultural Considerations
Legal Considerations:
- Tenancy Agreement: Ensure you have a written agreement outlining your rights and responsibilities.
- Deposit Protection: Landlords are legally required to protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme.
- HMO Licensing: If the property is an HMO (shared by 3 or more unrelated tenants), it must meet specific safety and licensing standards.
Cultural Considerations:
- Housemate Etiquette: Respect shared spaces by cleaning up after yourself and adhering to agreed-upon house rules.
- Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise, especially during late hours.
- Diversity: Liverpool is a multicultural city, and shared housing often brings together people from different backgrounds. Be open to cultural differences.
7. Local Factors and Tips
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Neighborhoods to Consider:
- Affordable Areas: Kensington, Wavertree, and Smithdown Road are popular among students and budget-conscious renters.
- Trendy Areas: Baltic Triangle, Ropewalks, and the Georgian Quarter are ideal for young professionals seeking a vibrant social scene.
- Quiet Areas: Aigburth and Mossley Hill offer a more residential feel.
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Transport Links:
- Liverpool has excellent public transport, including buses and trains. Choose housing near a Merseyrail station or major bus routes for convenience.
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Utilities and Bills:
- Clarify with the landlord or housemates whether bills are included in the rent. If not, agree on how to split them.
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Safety:
- While Liverpool is generally safe, some areas may have higher crime rates. Research neighborhoods and check local crime statistics before committing to a property.
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Housemate Compatibility:
- When viewing properties, try to meet the current tenants to ensure compatibility in terms of lifestyle and habits.
8. Additional Resources
- Liverpool City Council Housing Advice: https://liverpool.gov.uk
- Shelter UK (Housing Support): https://england.shelter.org.uk
- National Union of Students (NUS): Offers advice for students on renting shared housing.
By following this guide, youโll be well-prepared to find and settle into shared housing in Liverpool. If you have any further questions or need assistance with a specific aspect, feel free to ask!