Renting privately is great for those wanting a truly independent lifestyle. If you’re looking to rent through a private landlord or real estate agent, you can choose to rent on your own, or find a place to share with friends or flatmates.
Private rental
Joint private rentals
If you jointly rent a private property with others, you will be a ‘co-tenant’ of the property, meaning both you and other people you are living with will be listed on the lease.
All tenants listed on the lease will be jointly responsible for paying rent and bond to a landlord or real estate agent and looking after the property.
When renting privately, the property is usually unfurnished and you will need to consider things like getting utilities and internet connections (which will have associated costs).
Private rental on your own
Renting on your own is great if you like your own privacy and space. While there are many advantages of living on your own (such as not having to clean up anyone’s mess or compromising on Netflix choices), it does carry more financial responsibility.
When renting on your own, you will be the sole person on the lease, meaning that you are responsible for paying for bond, rent, and utilities on your own. These costs can add up quickly and balancing these along with study can be challenging.
You can find private accommodation through the following providers:
DISCLAIMER:
The sites listed above are independent businesses which are not owned or operated by UOW. It is your responsibility to make sure your accommodation meets your needs. Any rental agreement you enter in to is strictly between you and the accommodation provider.
Things to consider
You will need to consider costs that you will be required to pay for before you move into the property. These include:
- Bond – always a maximum of 4 weeks in advance but it can sometimes less than this
- Rent in advance - generally two weeks in advance in addition to the bond
- Electricity - connection fee
- Telephone - connection fee and line installation could be required
- Internet - connection fee
- Gas - connection fee could be required
- Furniture - you may need to purchase furniture if your property is not fully furnished
- Various household items such as cleaning equipment, kitchenware, etc.
A very useful facility that can assist you with setting up your utilities is www.connectnow.com.au. This web site can assist with what you might need to consider when moving and can organise this for you.
Private rentals usually require either a 6 or 12 month lease. If you decide you no longer want to live at the property, there is usually be a cost involved in breaking the lease, so ensure you are aware of the details of your lease before signing any documents.
Do you prefer to live on your own or share with others?
Does the living option have everything you need? (consider whether it’s furnished / includes appliances such as dishwasher, washing machine or separate bathroom).
Is the property close to campus and other amenities that are important to you (shopping centres, restaurants/cafes)?
If you don’t have your own car, consider whether there is public transport close by and the cost of daily travel.