Two years after the start of the lockdown in the Philippines due to the pandemic, we can say that life is slowly returning to normal in the country, especially in the metro. People are back in the streets, and in the workplace, more people are dining outside, going on vacation, and schools are starting to bring back face-to-face sessions.
For students in general, it is exciting to go back to school to study, explore the campus, and meet their classmates and other students in school. For college and university students who live far from their colleges and universities, returning to school may also mean living away from their family home to live closer to the school.
That said, there are plenty of options when it comes to a residence. Students may be gifted by their parents with their own condos, while others may lease a condo unit. But for those on a budget, staying in a boarding house for rent is the best option with different advantages.
Of course, to ensure you are safe and comfortable in your new accommodation, here are some factors students and their parents can consider when choosing a boarding house or dorm to rent.
Location
To save on money and time going to and from school, it is recommended that your boarding house is close to your school or at least one ride away. It would also be nice if your new accommodation is near essential establishments like groceries, malls, markets, and hospitals. For students living in the province, boarding a house near transport terminals is a good idea.
Security
For parents, security is a major concern, especially since their children will be living far away from them. Before signing a contract with a landlord, ensure the boarding house is safe. First, consider the neighborhood. Make sure that it is located in a well-lit area, and there are no bystanders that drink along the streets. It’s also ideal to choose a boarding house that is close to a police station and fire station. Aside from the community, you may inspect the boarding house and room itself. Are there CCTVs and security guards monitoring the boarding house? In case of emergency, are there fire exits near your unit?
Amenities
Some basic and essential amenities you can ask for in a boarding house include a laundry area, kitchen and dining area, living room, air conditioning units or electric fans, and high-speed internet connection. If you own a car or a motorcycle, you should also choose a boarding house with its own parking space.
Rental Fee
When you stay in a boarding house, you must pay for your rent each month on time in order to avoid penalties or possible termination of contract. To know the average rental fee in the area of your choice, you may ask around the rates of different boarding houses. You should also ask your potential landlord if the rate includes the utility bills and Internet access in their rental fee.
Your Roommates
Since you’ll be living with your roommates, you should choose your roommates wisely. Make sure they are trustworthy, responsible, and mindful of their business and belongings. Of course, you should also possess these qualities so that you can be an ideal roommate, too!
House Rules
Make sure to ask your landlord about their house rules before signing your leasing contract. For example, ask about their pet policies and rules on curfews, visitors, and other factors to assure your living experience will be hassle-free.
May these six factors help you find the best boarding house for you when you return to study at your school.
Thanks for sharing po ,1year na lang me college nako na estudyante and this is a big help sa pagdecide ng kukunin na boarding house nila .una talaga ang safety ng ating mga anak
Yes, you covered everything I would have thought of too. Safety is the most important and then distance is a very close second for me.
These are all such important factors to consider. For example, location can play a role in affordability, convenience, and safety. And that’s just one criteria.
Hhhhmmmm….alright then. Just like you, I take my comfort very serious and it would be the first factor I’d consider.
This is a really great and very informative post! This is perfect because my son is now a college student and we are looking for his apartment. Thanks for sharing this, security is the most important thing.
I never considered living in a multi- person boarding room. The closest I ever got to something like this was living in a college dorm, with one roommate.