Renting an apartment?

Question

Hiya everyone,
My boyfriend & I are planning to move out of student accommodation and want to try renting apartment starting summer. We are interested in an apartment (rent is around 450-500 pounds per month, ex. bills). I have always stayed in a students accommodation, bills included in the rent (70 - 90 pounds per week).
I wonder how much do I have to pay overall per month for the apartment, including bills etc. It will be based on two persons sharing, and we basically:-
- take shower regularly (1-2 times a day)
- use electric heater regularly
- cook everyday
- use internet for research & work purposes
How much do you think it will cost for water bills (cooking, shower, laundry), gas (cooking and heating), electricity (tv, computer, lighting) and broadband . Is there any taxes that I have to pay ie council tax? I asked some of my friends and they said that the bills sometimes comes in once in 3 months.
I would appreciate your advice on how to save on the bills.

Many, many thanks!

Answer 1

Well I am from USA. If the student accomadation 70 -90 pounds per week for one. Then to me it seems worth it moving to an apartment for two. It would seem the max is 360 pounds per month. So the apartment rent, even if you break out even in comparasion to renting of the student rent, would be worth it, I figure more room and privacy.

Answer 2

From your description, it sounds like you are not in the U.S. where I am so I don't know how much help I can be. I don't know what the rates are where you are for the different utilities but here are some basic tips. Try to find a place where some or all of the utilities are included. Also, during winter months, you can get a kit for putting plastic (clear) up over the windows to help eliminate drafts if the windows aren't good quality. If you have to pay for your own utilities, try turning the water heater down a bit as this can save money on heating the water. Keep the heat set a little lower and wear a sweater or layers. When doing laundry, use cold water as much as possible so you save on the hot water. (I only use hot water to wash towels and sheets) Of course, turn the lights off if you're not in the room and only use what you need.

You should also be able to contact your local utility company (gas or electric) and they should have pamphlets or brochures with money saving tips.

Answer 3

I went from a house to an condo and that i like it. yet some human beings i understand could quite stay in a house. you do get greater freedom in a house. A backyard and greater area. i could choose for it if I have been you.. a minimum of for the sake of the toddlers..