The main admission phase of Parcoursup started on the first of June. For those who know where they will be in September, this is (really) the time to look for accommodation. As the academic year comes to an end, studios and other small areas are freeing up, you can hope to have a little choice in some cities, housing in the most tense areas. Before starting, it is better to check a few points.
Don't overlook the impact of ECD on your finances
At the time of research, it is sunny and hot, we are often less attentive to energy expenditure; The windows are sometimes open, we see less mold. Only in winter, the cold and humidity can quickly become hell. Looking at the energy performance diagnosis (DPE), a document that must be provided by the owner, is a good way to check a little what will be your comfort and that of your finances: humidity and poor insulation make the temperatures felt lower and will force you to mount the thermostat, or simply the radiators. With the key to hefty bills.
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The DPE, which goes from A to G, makes it possible to identify thermal strainers, those that ultimately cost the tenant the most. Look at the heating, the windows, or the walls and ask the tenant questions if you come across him. Including the amount of his energy bills, he leaves the housing, he will have no trouble being transparent about the quality or not of the insulation.
Don't forget to ask for the charges
November, suddenly, no more city gas. Or cold water, without really understanding why. And then by calling Engie or GRDF, surprise: you have no contract subscribed to your name; Ditto for water... Pay attention to contracts and what is included in the charges or not. Depending on the city or building, part of the expenses is included or not in the "charges included".
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Some owners will prefer to subscribe themselves to a boiler maintenance subscription and will charge you for the passage in one or more monthly installments, others let you manage and it is the surprise at the time of the annual maintenance (mandatory) of the boiler. Only one thing to do, check with the owner or agency who pays what and get the precise list. Because even if energy or water suppliers accept deadlines, the surprise is sometimes painful.
Beware of hidden costs
Another point of vigilance is the location and costs generated by a place that is too far away and poorly served by transport. It may be tempting in some cities to take further from the school, to have a larger surface area or to pay less for example. If metropolises like Paris or Bordeaux are relatively accessible by transport or bike, others less and student life could become at least difficult for outings or even join the school. At worst, expensive if you need a car or take a taxi at the end of the evening.
If the temptation to move away is great, calculate the gain in rent and loss with gas, insurance, buying or renting the car and possibly parking or parking, not to mention maintenance. Once you've done your math, choose! Another small calculation to be made, that of the supermarkets around: having a Monoprix or a Lidl does not have the same impact on your daily shopping. In other words, living in a maid's room behind the Champs Élysées will probably cost you more in shopping than if you live in Tolbiac.
Finally, pay attention to the mention of furnished: ask what is part of the furniture and what leaves with the previous tenant. Because if you see a washing machine during the visit, it will not necessarily still be there on the day of your move-in. Needless to say, if you finally have to buy one at the last moment, it may surprise you.
Bonus tip, go back to see the building at another time of the week, in the evening or on weekends to get an idea of the noise and atmosphere if you do not know the neighborhood.