If you are thinking about moving into a flat share in Willesden Green or the surrounding North West London area we’ve put together some helpful information on the many benefits you can enjoy.
What is a flat share?
A flat share is when at least two separate people live in the same flat, with each person having their own bedroom, whilst sharing the rest of the property. It can also be referred to as a house share for people living together in a house. Both flat and house shares are often referred to as HMO’s (House in Multiple Occupation).
Is flat sharing safe?
As long as you search for flat shares through a reputable source – such as a professional estate agent with a good reputation – any risks that come with sharing accommodation will be greatly reduced. This is because background checks are carried out before tenants can move in – including references from previous landlords – and the agents will do everything possible to ensure you feel safe and secure in your new home.
At Regal Estates, we only work with reputable landlords to ensure all our properties are of the highest standard and to make the renting process as smooth as possible. We carry out background checks on all tenants including referencing checks to ensure you feel safe and secure in your shared property. We also professionally manage all our rooms to rent so we’ll only be a phone call away if any issues do arise.
Check out our Renting a Room Guide here >>
What are the benefits of flat sharing?
Lower costs
The main reason people choose to flat share is due to the lower costs. Rather than paying the full rent for the property you split the cost between the other occupants, along with council tax, electricity, gas and water charges (which are often included in a single monthly payment inclusive with the rent). The deposit needed for a flat share is also much smaller compared to a 1-bedroom flat.
Make friends
If you are new to the area and are some distance away from your friends and family, living alone can be difficult. Others in a flat share may have once been in a similar situation, and can help you settle into the property and the local area. It’s like having a set of ready-made friends who will welcome you into the flat and ensure there is more to life than just work and home.
Less responsibilities
While having your own flat means you have a lot more space to enjoy, it also means there is a lot more cleaning to do, and you are the only person around to do it. With a flat share these jobs can be divided amongst your other housemates to reduce the burden, so cleaning the bathroom, kitchen, hallway and living room is the responsibility of everyone living there.
Sharing items
It can take a bit of time to accumulate the things you need to handle all the daily life-tasks that crop up. Whether it’s a can opener, vacuum or even provisions such as sugar or milk, when you are flat sharing there will always be someone who has the item you need for that particular moment. As long as you are willing to do the same in return, you’ll be able to ask for little favours like this to get by and ensure you are never caught short.
Improve your social skills
Not everyone is an outgoing person and if you are quite reserved and living by yourself, making new friends outside of work can be difficult. Living in a flat share gives you the chance to socialise with others and improve your social and interpersonal skills. And if you are new to the area it’s a great way to learn more about it.
Looking for a flat share?
If you’re looking to rent a flat share in Willesden Green or the surrounding North West London area, Regal Estates have a variety of flat and house shares available. Get in touch with our expert lettings team today on 020 8459 2530 or email lettings@regalestate.co.uk.
Alternatively, you can browse all our available rooms to rent in North West London here.