Choosing the right room is important — you will be living there, often for several months. Read listings carefully and ask questions before committing.

Location

Check how far the property is from your workplace, university, or the city centre. Look at the Nearby Places section if it has been filled in — this often shows travel times to key locations. Consider public transport options.

What is included

Check whether bills are included (electricity, gas, internet, water) or charged separately. Confirm whether the room is furnished, and whether laundry and parking are available.

Room and bathroom

Is the bedroom private? Is the bathroom shared with other housemates? A clear listing will state this upfront — if it does not, ask before arranging a visit.

House rules and household

Does the household have pets? Is smoking allowed? Are there other housemates? Understanding the household setup helps you decide whether it is a good fit for your lifestyle.

Red flags to watch for

• Asking for large amounts of money before you have visited the property
• Asking you to communicate or pay outside the site before any agreement
• Listings with no photos and very little detail
• Prices significantly lower than other listings in the same area