Every year hundreds of students choose to live with residential landlords near the University. This often provides them with the greatest flexibility while allowing them a taste of family life and local culture.
Providing accommodation in your home for a Sussex University student is a great way of generating extra income while potentially developing long term friendships. No guarantor is needed and contracts can be flexible to suit your needs.
On inspection, you will receive an indication of what your room is worth on the rental market. This can depend on factors such as ensuite facilities, room and bed size, number of family members living in the property and location, but it averages out at around £600-£700 per month. Some landlords prefer to charge less as they enjoy the experience and appreciate the company.
Not just the city
The scheme isn’t limited to Brighton and Hove. Your home needs to be within walking distance of bus and train links which are a maximum of one hour travel time to campus. This includes anywhere in the city, but also as far east as Eastbourne, as far west as Worthing, and as far north as Crawley.
The home should be warm and welcoming and provide amenities one would expect for a student’s needs. Students require a nice, warm bedroom, furnished and equipped. They will want access to a bathroom and kitchen and you may wish to provide a half or full board option as opposed to self-catering, this is entirely up to you and the student’s preference. Often students like to have independence to do their own cooking etc. although some like a greater level of support from the landlord.
Experiences of students and hosts
- “During my first year hosting, I became good friends with the student who stayed with me, we had so much in common, despite our age difference and often had long conversations over dinner together. We will keep in touch and return to visit.”
- “When our student arrives we sit down, have a meal, and look at the atlas or a map and talk about where they are from, their journey here and where we are. It’s a lovely way to find out more about each other when we first meet.”
- “The whole homestay process was very easy and smooth, I have loved sharing a home with my landlord.”
Throughout your journey to becoming a residential landlord we will provide guidance and ensure that your experience is as enjoyable and enriching as possible. If you would like to get involved please email: studentpad@sussex.ac.uk.