• 
  First time buyers set to benefit from changes to stamp duty rates
  New measures have been unveiled by George Osborne in the Autumn statement this week aimed at benefiting first time buyers and easing the step to get onto the property ladder. The bold plans, due to come into effect from April 2016, were announced as part of a spending review package and are intended to boost home ownership and tackle the UK housing crisis by deterring investors from snatching up properties for buy-to-let purposes. Landlords taking out buy-to-let mortgages and second home buyers in England and Wales will pay higher stamp duty rates with a 3% surcharge on each stamp duty band, while owner occupiers buying homes under £125,000 won’t pay any tax. It is expected that commercial property investors with over 15 properties will be exempt from the new regulation. We are likely to see a rush of buy-to-let landlords looking at properties before the planning increase in April. In addition, the Help to Buy scheme in England, which has been so successful, will also be extended for an extra year to 2021, one year longer than planned. Under the popular scheme, prospective homeowners with a 5% deposit can purchase a new build property valued at up to £600,000 with the help of an interest free loan of up to 20% of the property’s price. In London, where property costs an average of £500,000, buyers will be able to access a loan of up to 40%. The government plans to invest an extra £6.9bn into building new properties to meet housing needs. £2.3bn of this will be allocated to the government's starter homes programme, £4bn will go to building 135,000 new homes for shared ownership and another £200m to build homes for rent. To determine the stamp duty rate for a specific property value, use this stamp duty calculator or speak to one of our Sales Team who would be happy to advise you on what these changes mean for you.
• 
  Parklane receives Interior Design Concept Award at the Northern Design Awards

  This year we opened the doors to Leeds’ most luxurious student accommodation brand IconInc this year, has been awarded a prestigious Northern Design Award for the Interior Design Concept and Commercial Interior Design Project.

  Its first development, The Edge, is valued at £15 million and hit the national headlines for offering ‘7 star student accommodation’. The phrase was coined by The Daily Mail, Telegraph, Independent, London Evening Standard and numerous industry and regional press outlets.

  The judges were impressed with the bespoke interiors that allowed the space to be maximised and entirely fit for purpose. It’s striking wall graphics, slick design and bespoke furniture and fittings have led to a unique design rewarded with this respected industry recognition.

  IconInc’s The Edge has 131 apartments in three sizes; Smart, Elegance and Grande, the highest-spec Grande apartment having the option for couples to rent. The luxury apartments boast all-inclusive bills, superfast 100MB broadband, flat screen TVs and king size beds.

  The Edge will pave the way for more IconInc developments in Leeds and nationwide, all to include unrivalled facilities; on-site cinema, games room, gym with personal trainers, study rooms and complimentary daily breakfast to name a few.

  Nav Ahmed, Managing Director of Parklane Properties said; “We’re absolutely thrilled to pick up this award, something the team deserves for their efforts in creating our unique build. IconInc redefines what it means to ‘live like a student’ and promotes ‘living like an icon’ and we worked tirelessly to get this across with our design.''

    

• 
  Survival Guide for Fresher’s Week
  You’ve finally got the grades to begin your university life. You’ve been through denial, anger, bargaining and depression, and come to accept the size of your student loan. You’ve opened your eyes to the prospect of being a graduate. You’ve braved Ikea, and bought for the first time all those items your parents assume are indispensable for modern living. Toasters, washing racks, cafetières, casserole dishes and tea-towels. Yet you haven’t had the heart to tell them that you’d rather they bought Berocca, paracetamol and some speakers, or that the close company of a near-stranger is as effective in winter as any fan heater. The “rents” have got so many disappointments coming up, you don’t want to make things worse. You let them sink into reveries about their student days as they drive you up an unfamiliar motorway to eventually drop you off at your first student digs so you can revel in the presence of your chosen cities Fresher’s Week……. Here is your official survival guide! Moving in & meeting new people

  • When you first arrive, unpack and make your room your own. Then, when you get tired of unpacking and meeting people, you have a refuge.
  • Make sure your door is open while you're unpacking. That way, people can see you exist - it's a guaranteed way to meet people. You might also like to put up a big sign with your first name on your room door.
  • Look out for people on your course. If you meet someone, exchange numbers and agree to go to the first few lectures together. It is easier to meet new people once you're already with someone. Even better, organise a trip to the uni bar after the first lecture with whoever wants to attend.
  • Don't stop talking to random people just because fresher’s week finishes. Keep going and keep meeting people. As people settle in they will be more relaxed and everyone will feel less like they are on best 'friend-making' behaviour.

  Getting to know your University

  • Many universities publish fresher’s week schedules and events on their websites or most likely on the Students' Union website.
  • It's a good idea to take a good walk and explore the university in your first few days before your timetable officially starts. Rather than go by yourself, this is a great idea for something to do with your housemates.
  • Where are the best coffee shops or places to eat for good lunch?

  Societies & Fresher’s fairs

  • Firstly embrace the experience and try and get involved in everything you think you’ll enjoy. Open your mind to new music and cultures and above all find yourself in your new city.
  • University is probably the best opportunity you will ever have to try new sports, games, hobbies and activities. These will never be so cheap and easily available again. Have a look around the stalls at Fresher’s fairs and see what takes your fancy.
  • Try something different or unusual. Smaller societies are often grateful for members and will devote more effort to each member, making them a more rewarding experience. More obscure sports are often more willing to cater for beginners, whereas mainstream sports may require previous experience of playing at a high level. Some big sports societies even insist on trials.

  Going out

  • Have a few taxi numbers in your phone contacts, just in case you get lost. Plus any phone numbers for your new friends - in case you get separated.
  • Don't worry if you're a bit nervous about going out - it can be a scary time for any fresher because you're still getting to know people.
  • Second and third year students are helpful people to approach for advice on which events to go to. They are also usually the people who are selling tickets for the different nights. Talk to them when you buy tickets.
  • You can look at the different nights which are available on the university notice boards. Most Students' Unions will send you info about fresher’s week before you arrive - if not check out their website. Tickets always sell out for the most popular events, so make sure you get them early!

  Money & Budgeting

  • Always remember that being a student entitles you to student discount in most places, so always remember to ask before you pay.
  • Look out for discounts promotions in supermarkets, restaurants, bars and clothes shops to save extra pennies
  • Work out what you have to spend each week - and stick to it. If you do over-spend, then make sure you have a lean week next week to make up for it.
  • Christmas is expensive - parties, clothes, and presents to buy. Keep a bit of money back for this.
  • Look for cheaper versions of toiletries etc. in Pound Shops. Quite often this stuff is bankrupt stock - nothing wrong with it, just going cheaper.
  • You don’t have to necessarily buy an NUS card as your university card entitles you to most of the same discounts

  Food

  • Agree in advance what is and what is not communal food. Most kitchen groups treat milk, butter, washing up liquid, toothpaste and toilet roll as communal and simply take it in turns to buy them.
  • Try to keep in a few tins of beans and tomato soup: perfect for emergency meals.
  • Eat together where possible... have a curry evening or a spaghetti bolognese and take it in turns with your neighbours to host it. It works out way cheaper than cooking for one, and if you host your meal and run out of cash for food later in the week, at least you know dinner is being provided by one of your housemates!
  • Market stalls are usually far cheaper for buying vegetables than in a supermarket. Vegetables are considerably cheaper than meat. Try to use them as the basis for the majority of meals. This is not only frugal but also extremely healthy.
  • If you can't share, cook more than you need and freeze some for another day. It saves money, both on food and on fuel used for cooking.
  • Ready meals from supermarkets may look like the answer to eating without cooking. Just be aware that they are far more expensive than making it yourself - and usually full of nasty stuff like salt and saturated fat. A healthy diet they are not.

  Books, reading lists & staying organised

  • Just because a book is on your reading list does not mean you have to buy it! You should borrow from your university library. Only buy books that you are specifically told to by your tutors and, even then, you can usually borrow these from the library.
  • Most books on your reading list (especially for arts/humanities/social science subjects) you will either read once, or read just a chapter from each book. Next week's reading will be a whole new list of books. This is why you shouldn't even think of buying them.
  • You can buy good copies of most uni text books 2nd hand - just make sure they are the right 'edition' (i.e. published in the right year). If in doubt get the most up to date one.
  • Always keep a diary or make note of deadlines and meetings in your phone. Staying super organised is the key to not falling behind and not getting stressed.

  Staying safe

  • There's safety in numbers: try to stick with a group of people.
  • Familiarise yourself with the new area before going out.
  • If you're in a club, never leave your drink unattended at any time.
  • Being at uni you want to try 'new things'. Just be aware of what you are trying. People will tell you 'it' is 'really, really safe', but is it? Think carefully.
  • All universities have a counselling service, and many have a Nightline/Helpline. If you are feeling depressed, talk to someone. Some people feel very homesick when they leave home for the first time - it's normal, but it can also make your first term at uni unhappy. Talk to other people about how you are feeling, and if you get very low, reach out for help from your university.
• 
  Parklane wins prestigious Sunday Times lettings agency of the Year award

  We are proud to announce that Parklane has won the bronze medal in the Sunday Times Lettings Agency of The Year award 2015!

  On Friday 12th June, over 550 leading letting agents from throughout the UK attended a glittering ceremony at The Lancaster London Hotel opposite Hyde Park where the winners of the most highly regarded awards in the lettings industry were revealed. According to the judges: “Parklane Properties occupies a fantastic office providing interactive equipment and a tailored mixture of online and personal services. This agency goes the extra mile to communicate with students using engaging and effective channels.” Winning this award so soon after winning the Landlord and Lettings Award for Letting Agent of the Year 2014 is further confirmation that Parklane is the number 1 student lettings agency in Leeds, and we aim to continue our amazing track record of offering the best student accommodation in Leeds.
• 
  Introducing IconInc - The luxury way of student living
   High-spec, luxury studio and one bed apartments for Students, set to be finished for late 2015 in the heart of Leeds. Introducing IconInc, a brand new student development by the Parklane group, which aims to totally redefine student living in Leeds. Offering high-spec apartments with all the luxury and added extras of a boutique hotel. More than that however, IconInc promises to be a student hub, with personal learning and development at the heart of the project. Combining state-of-the-art technology, modern design and enlivening social spaces to enrich the university experience. IconInc is located on Burley Road opposite the popular student halls ‘Opal 1 & 2’, meaning it will be perfectly situated for students at both universities and within a short bus journey of either campus. What is on offer?  As far as living space goes IconInc provides the most premium experience on offer within Leeds. The luxury apartments will be fully kitted out offering completely furnished modern design, with cutting edge technology, as well as a 24 concierge with staff available at all times. One of the many perks to living at IconInc will be the 24-hour gym. No matter what time of the day (or night) you fancy pumping some iron, it will always be available; this will be accessible for every tenant at IconInc free of charge. Social spaces IconInc will provide a range of stimulating social areas, with a cinema and games room for down time and a library and study area for when the uni work gets on top of you. If you need to meet with class mates there will be meeting areas, and private study rooms where you can run through presentations or discuss a group project. Much more than this, IconInc aims to inspire the students of today to become the icons of tomorrow, through providing the perfect balance of learning and social spaces. Outside of university studies there will also be external lecturers speaking regularly which will be free to attend and will cover a range of subjects. These aim to provide each individual with a well-rounded knowledge base on top of what they are already studying. How much will it cost?  Rooms start at £140 pppw, which includes bills and all of the aforementioned features. IconInc will also be providing some optional extras, particularly for overseas students, providing extra learning materials and an extensive range of gadgets and technology. IconInc believes that creativity is born from people coming together and through this it aims to provide the perfect environment to further your learning and to achieve your goals. If you are looking for a modern, luxury living space and to be inspired daily through art, culture and design then IconInc will be the perfect living space for you. For more information on IconInc, the services available or to book a viewing for 2015, visit the website below.
• 
  Landlord & Letting Awards: 2014/15 Finalists
  It is that time of year again, and the finalists for the 2014/15 Landlord & Letting Awards have been announced. The awards were set up in 2009 as a way of recognising and rewarding excellence in the private rented sector, while also helping to raise the standards set by landlords and businesses. Since then the awards have grown in stature and here at Parklane we are proud to be part of such a well respected accolade. This year Parklane Properties has been recognised for our achievements within the city of Leeds, and have been shortlisted among finalists for the ‘Best Website’ and ‘Best Customer Service’. The winners of each category will be announced at a gala dinner held at Stoneleigh Park later this evening. If you are a current or past tenant of Parklane and have any positive experiences of the agency and the areas we have been nominated within, get in touch with us via our Facebook or Twitter pages posted below. Let us know the reasons you chose to go with Parklane and what it is about living in Leeds that you love so much.  
• 
  New to the city? A guide to Leeds nightlife
  If you’re new to the city and are looking for areas in which to socialise on a night, and meet new people, Leeds has an abundance of options available to you. Whether you’re after entertainment, food or just a casual drink amongst friends, these areas of Leeds have plenty to offer. Central It might sound relatively vague, however the real city centre area of Leeds offers a number of bars and restaurants in which to socialise. From bars and restaurants like The Alchemist, Botanist and Angelicas in the Trinity Shopping Centre, to higher up in town, such as Browns on the Headrow – there are plenty of spots for you to grab food and drinks.   Call Lane The ever-popular nightlife destination, Call Lane has been synonymous with Leeds nightlife for as long as we can remember. Often packed on a weekend, popular spots include Jake’s Bar, Call Lane Social, Oporto, Revolution and The Backroom – offering wide-ranging musical and ambiance feels to suit any taste.   Northern Quarter Having recently seen a growth of explosion, the Northern Quarter of Leeds truly is burgeoning. With the likes of Belgrave Music Hall and Sandonista, you have great food and drink options, and with new additions like the New York themed Manahatta and trendy The Brotherhood of Pursuits and Pastimes, the northern quarter gives an alternative to the busier lower sections of the city.   Financial Area From the likes of the Slug and Lettuce, The Decanter and The Living Room around Park Row and Greek Street, to places more off the beaten track like Baby Jupiter and The Atlas, bars and places to grab a drink are plentiful in the more business focused area of the city. Likewise, if you’re after somewhere to enjoy a meal in a relaxing environment, it’s well worth checking out Blackhouse: The Grill on the Square.
• 
  Why live in Leeds? What the city has to offer potential new tenants.
  One of the north's most vibrant cities, Leeds is fast becoming one of the UK's real hotspots for business, culture and entertainment. Investment in the city continues to proceed strongly, with the recent opening of the Trinity Leeds shopping centre, and the soon to be completed Victoria Gate demonstrating that. To people asking the question 'why live in Leeds?' the city is fast becoming a real gem of the north. The population booms every September as students head to the three local universities, and as such a hub of activity, the city now boasts one of the UK's premier reputations for careers. Whether you're a professional considering Leeds, or someone just starting a career fresh from completing a degree, the city has plenty to offer the city worker looking to dwell in style. Business As one of the biggest cities in the nation, it's hardly surprising that Leeds is one of the largest business centres in the United Kingdom. The ample amount of office space within the city mean that many national and global businesses have established offices within the business district of the city. Professional services firms are rife within the city, with multi-national  organisations such as Deloitte, Rockstar games, and hair care giant GHD all boasting offices in the city. Restaurants For residents of a city, a good selection of amenities is always high up on the list of desires, something which Leeds offers in abundance. With a vast selection of high quality restaurants, Leeds is seen as a real gold mine for cuisine. From the immediately attractive outer of The Restaurant Bar & Grill and Loch Fyne as you exit Leeds train station into City Square, to the penthouse feel exuded within Trinity's newest offerings, Angelica and Crafthouse; Leeds has plenty of places to head if you're looking to enjoy something with an element of style and class. Add in the wide range of quality chain restaurants dotted around Greek Street, The Light and the Headrow, and there really is something to take the fancy of every Leeds resident. Bars Renowned for nightlife, Leeds offers a great selection of bars to let your hair down, be it to unwind after a long day at work, or to go out and celebrate. Whether you're looking to head somewhere for after work cocktail deals at Revolution, want to relax in a busy but calm ambiance at 1871, enjoy a craft beer at North Bar or have a real celebration on Call Lane, there are plenty of location to head to, whatever occasion is calling. Entertainment & Shopping As of March this year, more investment is going into shopping developments in Leeds and neighbouring areas than any other part of Europe. With the recent opening of Trinity Leeds, an assortment of big name shops, bars, restaurants and a new independent cinema housed in the development, there's plenty of reason to head into the bustling city for entertainment. Couple the big and popular attractions of Trinity with the likes more low key, independent offerings such Roxy Lanes bowling, and there's plenty to keep you entertained.   Creative commons image sourced as copyright free on Google Images - commons.wikimedia.org
• 
  Student tips for finding a graduate job
  With the academic year almost in the books, it's time to begin planning how you'll spend your time over the summer. If you're in your final year, it's important you begin to plan where you'll go post-graduation, but even for first and second year students it's important you spend your summer wisely. From permanent graduate jobs to part time internships, there will be plenty of competition if you're going for a job this summer. Bearing that in mind, we give you some pointers on finding student jobs in Leeds. Career Service The Career Service at your university is always a great source of information, and can play a huge part in helping you to discover the career path you want to explore. If you already have a clear vision of which sector you are going into, the Career service will help you pinpoint the essential skills and abilities to highlight on your CV. Make sure to also talk to any of your tutors that specialise in the area you're are interested in, as they might able to provide you with valuable contacts you wouldn't otherwise have access to. List of experience for CV and interview When contacting an organisation for any job, be it permanent or just a work placement, the first thing the potential employer will judge you on is the quality of your application. Although it’s always the best to tailor your CV to the specific company you applying for, there is no harm in preparing a list of all the experience and skills you have built up throughout education, to ensure you show yourself off in the best possible light. Make sure you start off thoroughly and try to include every single detail in your first CV and cover letter draft; you can always cut it down later if it's too long. Career Fairs Many universities will run a variety of career fairs throughout the year, providing you with the opportunity to meet different employers and organisations. It might seem simple, however it’s one of the best ways to build your personal connection and contact list ahead of jumping into the job market. Even when there are career fair opportunities not related to a sector you're interested in, getting experience in talking to networking and establishing contacts is a good way to make sure you get it right when it really does matter. Get as much practice as possible to ensure that, when the pressure's on and you want to make a good impression, you get it spot on. Graduate Schemes A lot of large organisations offer great graduate opportunities through specifically established grad schemes. Throwing you into work at some of the biggest organisations in the UK, the specifically set up schemes are tailored to the need of a modern graduate, often including initial training periods before gently easing you into work across a number of fields until you find the area you're best suited to. Make sure you scour the internet for the best opportunities, and ensure you get your applications in early to impress; these schemes are well known to be viciously competitive. Work Experience If you are still not sure which path to take post-graduation, it’s always a good option to get more job experience. If the experience is related to what career path you end up settling for, then it will look great on your CV. Don’t shy away from different, more diverse opportunities however, as you may find yourself in a field you really enjoy, and can see yourself carving a career for yourself in. Learning the ways of the professional office is an important step, and conversing with industry professionals will only aid you when it comes to interviews further down the line. Photo Credit: swisscan via Compfight cc
• 
  Considerations for potential landlords
  Renting out your property is a good source of income, but for many new landlords, it's a tough to know the best way of letting out your property. Letting your property out on your own requires special knowledge, time and effort, especially in cases of difficult tenants or when disputes arise. If you’re on the fence about engaging a letting agent or letting your property out on your own, here are some considerations that may help you to make an informed decision. Finding a tenant Looking for a tenant may seem simple enough, but ensuring that your tenant is credible is a little more challenging. Letting agents can help to make credit checks on any prospective tenant, ensuring that you are leaving your property in the hands of someone who is able to deliver rent promptly. An agent can also assist in arranging and managing property viewings as well as handling common letting queries. Leaving the process in the hands of professionals will help to prevent down periods where your property may be left unoccupied. Managing your tenant Finding a good tenant and signing the tenancy agreement is only half the battle. Before starting the tenancy, there's important preparation work to be done, such as preparing an inventory list. You will also need to collect rent and check the property regularly. The day-to-day management of a rented property may also present difficulties at any time of any day, where tenants may call with issues about broken boilers, radiators, or being locked out. Letting agents can take control when such situations arise, and help to arrange for maintenance works where plumbers and electricians are required. This ensures that you do not have to deal with a problem that may crop up suddenly, and would interrupt your day. Don't be vulnerable It is common to hear horror stories of tenants who leave a property in a poor state. You don't want to be left out of pocket when it comes to restoring your property, so a professional letting agency will ensure and advise so that you aren't left in a vulnerable position. You shouldn't have to worry about potential additional costs, and repair and replacement works can be done on the property without burning a hole in your pocket. Legal responsibilities Entrusting a letting agency to handle the tenancy agreement will help to protect you, as the landlord, from bearing unnecessary costs in the case of any disputes. Disputes commonly arise regarding any deductions from the deposits, and with work and your own life taking preference, you don't want to have to deal with issues like this. The legal agreement will detail your fair responsibilities as the landlord, and what costs you need to or do not need to bear. More importantly, the letting agency will ensure that your tenancy agreement adheres with national laws. In the unfortunate situation where legal action is threatened, your position will be protected.   There are a lot of important considerations to be made when becoming a landlord, and making the right decision would be crucial to getting the best out of your letting experience and leaving your property is the best condition possible. If you're looking to let a property in the city centre and want to receive the best available service, make sure you check out our website.   Photo Credit: tricky (rick harrison) via Compfight cc
• 
  Enjoy an alternative night in Leeds
  Many people simply assume that, when a student has no work to do and is looking for a way to spend the evening, the only plausible option is to head out into the city for a night out. However as students, we know that isn't always the case. Sometimes we have an early alarm the next morning, or simply don't have the budget to be out splashing cash every week. If you're wanting to head out with friends, but want to steer clear of the typical student vibe, we've got some great ideas for you. Roxy Ball Room Leeds is a great city when it comes to venues for an evening drink. The recent addition of Trinity Leeds to the city skyline means there are now an abundance of high end drinks establishments. However if you're just wanting somewhere to meet friends and relax, without making any special effort, Roxy is the place to head. Situated on Boar Lane, the location of the bar is perfect, as it means you'll still be amongst the hustle and bustle of a busy city evening, however inside you won't be cramped for space. The expansive and stripped back interior has a great feel and gives you an immediate feeling of relaxation. Having only recently opened, you could be forgiven for not even knowing of Roxy's existence, however it's the perfect bar to head to if you to add an element of entertainment to your evening. Packed with ping pong and pool tables, the bar is primarily aimed at bringing out your fun side, as you can enjoy a steady evening with friends whilst having a fun time. With an indie and rock soundtrack to accompany your night, Roxy provides a totally different environment in which you can enjoy the evening.  Leeds Met Gig As a Leeds student, you're probably aware of the abundance of different options available if you want an evening of live music. However, if you're after something cheaper and more intimate than a gig at the arena or academy, Leeds Met Students Union often plays host to a range of more acquired musical tastes. Tickets are relatively cheap, the venue is a handy one and it's a good spot to head with friends who are searching for a way to spend the evening. To kick off the month of March, the Leeds Met music scene welcomes Scottish synthpop band Chvrches, who will play hits from their newest studio album The Bones of What You Believe on the 9th March. Later in the month, popular rockers Band of Skulls play to the Leeds student audience, and as we move into April, American punk rockers Alkaline Trio are sure to pack out the venue for their gig on the 19th. Another highlights for April includes a performance from Funeral for a Friend on the 26th. Belgrave Music Hall Leeds' coolest new haunt, Belgrave Music Hall has received many plaudits since its recent opening. Self described as  an 'independent venue with music, art, film and food spread across three floors, including Leeds’ most spectacular roof terrace'. With a selection of cool music, craft beers and a more discerning audience in attendance, Belgrave Music Hall is ideal if you're wanting a good atmosphere that avoids the typical student types. Check out the website to view the surroundings, food offerings and musical acts on offer this month.   Image used under creative commons courtesy of Kwesihackman.
• 
  Create a perfect study space
  Now that the extended Christmas break is firmly in the rear view window, it's time to really crack down and be driven over the next few months to drag your grade up as high as possible. With deadlines, assessments and exams all fast approaching, it's time to hit the books and work hard. If your student house sounds more like a warzone than a working haven, it might be time to turn your room into a revision retreat. If you want somewhere you can truly get some relief and focus on studies, check out our tips on getting in  the zone for studying.

  Make sure you're secluded from the bedlam

  We all know how a student house can get, and if you're spending an evening in doing work, you'll have any number of distractions around you that you need to avoid. From friends coming around before a night out, to rowdy competitions on the Xbox, distractions and noise can be everywhere. Make sure that your room isn't in a loud zone, and if it is try and move to a more secluded spot. The sound of voices and fun can not only slow down your production, but also lead to mistakes creeping into your work. If you can hear a buzz of activity from downstairs, why not put on some soft music to drain it out. Something instrumental and without vocals is ideal and can even make an environment more conducive to work.

  Workspace

  The chances are that you'll have a desk in your room, however as a typical student, it's highly unlikely to be clean and suitable for working on. If your desk is covered with dirty washing and the dishes from your tea last night, you need to have a bedroom clean. Having a clear workspace will put you in the right frame of mind for a session of studying. It'll give you room for books, means you won't lose notes and you'll have no distractions in your nearby vicinity.

  Lighting

  There's nothing more depressing than being bogged down with assessments and having to sit in the dark to slowly get through them all. It's remarkable how much difference lighting can have on both your mood and your attitude to work. If your room is a bit gloomy and the main light isn't bright enough, then you might need a desk lamp.

  Get comfy

  University courses are gruelling and if you want a top grade, it'll involve a lot of hard work. The chances are that you'll spend a lot of time working at your desk if you're determined to succeed. The thought of sitting in an awful uncomfortable chair is more than enough to deter even the most conscientious of student from cracking on with work. If there are other chairs in the house and are unused, swap them around until you find one that is comfy enough for you to work on.

  Be equipped

  Once your workspace is ready, you're all set to get cracking. Make sure that you have all the books, resources and equipment ready on your desk though, otherwise you'll constantly find yourself on the move grabbing books and pens. so gather everything you might need, arrange it on your desk and settle in for the long haul.  
• 
  House or Flat: Student living in Leeds
  After the first year of initially settling into your new university life and making friends, many students will then choose to uproot off campus and into a home of their very own. Choosing a new property isn't easy, and deciding who you share that home with can be even more difficult. If you're torn between the simple single living life, or group housing, then check out our tips below on whether housing or flats are your best option.

  Student living in a Flat

  Renting a flat can be an attractive proposition. Commonly favoured by young professionals, many flats and apartments are located in the centre of Leeds, meaning they're great if you're wanting to be in the hustle and bustle of the city. Although you may not want to live alone as a student, living in a single flat does have a number of advantages; it's your own space, providing you with a sense of independence and also means you won't be reliant on housemates when it comes to costs. To put it quite simply, city centre apartment living is the epitome of cool. If you're wanting the central apartment lifestyle but want to share the experience with friends, there are great options available too. The Triangle offers services of the highest quality and includes single room flats through to five and six bedroom apartments. City centre apartment living gives you easy access not only to university facilities in Leeds, but all the shops, restaurants and amenities of one of the country's most vibrant locations. In terms of cost, apartment living may not be as cheap as opting to house share or living on an all inclusive basis, but with prices under £100 per person per week, it is certainly affordable.

  Student Living in a House

  Houses can come in all shapes and sizes, accommodating almost any amount of people. So whether you're wanting to live with your closest three friends, or as a group of eight or more, there are options available. Generally speaking in terms of costs, sharing with more people means bills will be cheaper and your rent will be likely to cost less. It might be a cost saver in some aspects, however with more people in your home, it's likely the lethargic student attitude will lead to a more untidy home. In terms of where student housing is primarily located, you're likely to be moving out of the city to find your property. Headingley is a prime location for house sharing opportunities, and as a student hub, you'll have plenty on your doorstep. The main area of Headingley offers bars, restaurants, supermarkets and other stores, meaning that you'll still have everything you need within a short walk. Evenings socialising are great in Headingley, due to it being the main student living destination, and from cheap meal deals to independent restaurants, you'll be spoilt for choice on Otley Road.  
• 
  Secure your home over Christmas
  Christmas is around the corner, and with the student population of Leeds all packing up and heading home for family festivities, your homes won't be protected daily by the deterrent of regular inhabitants. Before you head back to your family home, be if for a quick week or an extended month, make sure you follow our tips to keeping your student house safe.

  Take valuables home with you

  It might seem like an obvious suggestion, but a large amount of students choose to leave valuables in their student house over the Christmas break. Some of the worst-hit burglary areas are ones which have a high student population, so the festive period, where houses are empty can be a haven for thieves. You'll obviously take your smartphone and other mobile devices home with you, but if there are larger items such as desktop computers and televisions in your home, it will be costly to replace them if the worst should happen. Don't leave items of value in your uninhabited home.

  Be prepared

  The winter and the long dark nights are proven to bring an increase in burglary nationwide, so even if you take all the proper precautions, there is often nothing you can do if targeted by thieves. Check that your insurance policy is in order before leaving for an extended time, as the last thing you want upon returning is to lose valuable possessions and them not be covered.

  Deterrents

  It might go against every fibre of your being as a student, but if you leave the house on an evening, or even for an extended period, it can be a real help if you leave a visible light on as a deterrent. We understand that you might have to scrape around for your electricity bill, but the couple of hours you leave the hall light on when out can help prevent a break-in. If you're leaving for the holidays, set up a light timer that flicks a light on for an hour on an evening. Alarm systems are also a great aid, and even a deterrent. The flashing alarm box on a home will be spotted by potential thieves and it may steer them away from your home.

  Secure it

  It can often be a difficult job to keep track of people coming and going in a student home. With varying university timetables and people heading out to meet friends for Christmas celebrations, you might not always know how many people are home. If there is any doubt in your mind as to whether you're last to leave, make sure you secure your home by locking the door. Unlocked doors and windows can be a recurring problem when it comes to student burglaries. Make sure your house isn't left vulnerable - lock the windows, doors and even the exterior gates.

Showing 185 to 198 of 198 blogs