Why PBSAs Are The Right Choice For Students?

Embarking on your student journey? Wondering what is Purpose Built Student Accommodation? Discover why Purpose-Built Student Accommodations (PBSA) might be your ultimate housing haven. In this blog, we unravel the student-centric perks of choosing PBSA student accommodation. From fostering a supportive community to convenient amenities, we explore why this tailored living solution ensures a seamless, enjoyable student life. Join us as we break down the reasons why PBSA stands out as the perfect choice for students seeking comfort, community, and a home-away-from-home experience.

What is PBSA?

What is PBSA, you may ask? Purpose Built Student Accommodation, or PBSA student accommodation, is housing specially designed for students by private developers, making it one of the best options for student accommodation. Don’t believe us? Find out why PBSAs regularly make it on the list of the best affordable types of student accommodations which includes two major types of structure: 

1. Studio flats

Studio flats, or cluster flats, are compact living spaces with your own kitchen and a shared common area. Imagine your private space facilitated by amazing features and amenities. These studios often come with extra perks like gyms, cinema rooms, swimming pools, and games rooms. It's like having your cosy spot while enjoying awesome facilities in the same building!

2. Residency halls

Residence halls are student-friendly living spaces featuring shared facilities like kitchens, dining, and living areas, with private bedrooms that come with their own bathrooms. Imagine making meals together in the shared kitchen, hanging out in the communal living room, and having your private space to unwind. These residence halls are designed to create a friendly, communal atmosphere for students.

PBSAs are considered to be one of the most reliable options for students, but if you are looking for more options, keeping in mind the comfort and affordability, you can refer to the best types of student accommodation for an affordable stay in 2024.

What are the benefits of PBSA?

What is Purpose Built Student Accommodation? It is your student space with a ton of benefits and pros, apart from providing luxury student accommodation and making a mark in the PBSA market. Let’s find out what benefits PBSA student accommodations have: 

1. Safety

Safety is a basic necessity and the biggest concern of most students. Here, PBSAs are highly reliable as they provide 24/7 CCTV security, on-site security, and management teams, which ensure the safety of students at all times. A survey of parents also states that they tend to trust PBSA student accommodations more than letting their children live in private homes.  

2. Essentials are a must

The majority of PBSA student accommodations have all bills included, so you won't have to worry about paying additional power, water, gas, or internet expenses as a result. Your student apartment will also include all the necessities, such as a closet, study area, storage space, and a kitchen and bathroom of your own.

3. Study lounge

Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) offers a distinctive learning environment that can't be found in typical private rentals. Every purpose-built student accommodation provides students with everything they require and more, including contemporary study spaces with tables and dependable wi-fi or internet. Your ability to concentrate on your studies and maintain the drive to do your homework and research well is guaranteed by your student accommodation.

4. Proximity to university

Major colleges are conveniently close to almost all PBSA student accommodations. Many people also live near cafes, restaurants, bars, event venues, and shopping. Additionally, the transportation system's ease is evaluated so students can comfortably walk and wander around the city while traveling to and from their universities.

5. Pocket-friendly

In addition to rent, there are additional expenses you'll have to cover if you want to live on campus. For instance, if you rent a private apartment or room, you'll also need to pay for utilities, meals, and other essentials. Because of the all-inclusive expenses and communal kitchen, living in a PBSA student accommodation is the most cost-effective choice. It is advised you begin saving as early as possible. To make things easier, you can go through the best money-saving apps for students.

6. Find your social space

The shared social spaces found in PBSA student accommodations include common game rooms, rooftop patios, movie theatres, lounges, and shared kitchens. By doing so, you can find peers your age who share your interests and easily find new friends

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7. Create a space of your own

When renting in a Purpose Built Student Accommodation, you can pick from various rooms. You can either live in a one-bedroom flat or a self-contained studio and have your own private room while sharing a bathroom, kitchen, and living room with other students, have your own bathroom, or not share at all. Therefore, you have the opportunity to decorate your space when it comes to PBSA real estate! Now that you know you can decorate your PBSA student housing into your dream room, you can check out these budget bedroom decor ideas for students!

Why do students prefer PBSA?

Purpose-built student accommodation can be a great option if the housing options in your university are filled up, too expensive, or do not fit your needs. Whatever the reason may be, you can always rely on PBSA student accommodation, which has begun to get more and more popular among students around the world. PBSA real estate properties have begun to make shockwaves in the student housing world.

1. Rent factor

The rent for PBSAs is usually around €140 - €250 euros per week, which should immediately make your jaw drop to the floor. Well, if that isn’t enough, then let us go further. These student buildings may be short on communal spaces, but they more than make up for them in the high-end leisure activities they offer.

2. Prime location

What is PBSA? PBSA is a space created for students, keeping in mind the daily needs of the students.  This is why they are planned in a prime location where there is easy access to transport as well as your local stores and restaurants. So, whenever you need a quick bite because, after all, you are a student, and most of the time, pending work can be so stressful.

Difference between PBSA and On-campus accommodation

There are many key differences between PBSA student accommodation and on-campus accommodation, a few of which are mentioned below:

1. Close to the university

When renting a PBSA student accommodation, you can pick from various rooms. The university campus is where on-campus student accommodation is located. Therefore, you will be residing there among other students who are your academic peers and share a similar stage of life with you. On the other side, purpose-built student accommodation is not on the university's campus but rather close by. Most of them are conveniently located near transportation hubs, making getting to and from the university easier.

2. Amenities

Both PBSA student accommodation and on-campus accommodation feature many of the same amenities and services, such as on-site housing staff, laundry facilities, exercise centres, high-speed wi-fi, and more. In addition, some PBSA student accommodations have game rooms and movie theatres, amenities that are uncommon on campuses.

3. Rules and regulations

PBSAs and on-campus accommodations each have their own set of regulations. On-campus housing typically abides by the norms and regulations of the institution, while PBSA student accommodation typically has guidelines established by the corporation overseeing. Generally speaking, PBSAs are thought to offer more independence than on-campus housing. The majority of colleges have rules governing behaviour in on-campus housing.

4. Light on the pocket

The general consensus seems to be that off-campus housing costs more than on-campus housing; however, PBSA student accommodation rates vary depending on the amenities offered. There are both pricey and economical options. Additionally, while some PBSAs accept monthly payments, many on-campus housing only accepts semester payments.

5. Extend your summer stay

Students who intend to stay in the country over the summer and holidays must secure additional accommodations because many on-campus housing facilities close during those times. However, off-campus living enables students to remain for the entire academic year.

How to select the right PBSA for you?

Selecting the right purpose-built student accommodation is crucial for your time in a new place. Of course, it is, since it’ll be the most time you would spend in one place (apart from your college or university obviously). Confused about how exactly you go about it? We’ll help you out.

Step 1: Choose your location carefully!

If you're planning to stick around during the summer and holidays, finding a place to stay can be a challenge because on-campus housing often closes. Luckily, off-campus living is the solution, letting students stay for the entire academic year without any hassle.

Step 2: Choose your property carefully 

Once you've picked your spot, make sure your student accommodation is just right for you. Take a good look around, and make sure everything works and fits your lifestyle. It's all about making sure it feels like home.

Step 3: Look to Facebook for feedback! 

Turn to Facebook for some real help in situations like this. Join groups where people live or have lived in purpose-built student housing. They're the ones who can give you the real scoop and honest answers to all your questions.

Step 4: Different strokes for different folk. 

We all have our likes and dislikes. With PBSA student accommodations everywhere, you get choices. Want to bunk with someone? Go for it. Prefer having your own space? Choose a private room in that student housing. Just remember, the prices will vary for each type of room.

Step 5: Let’s talk money

The money part is key! Know how much you're willing to spend on your PBSA. Prices can vary depending on where you are, what's included, and how big your room is. Do some digging, get the facts, and plan your budget accordingly.

PBSA Market Overview: What's so hot about it? 

The PBSA market is a growing sector, with over 15,000 international students travelling annually, and the demand has increased. You can say that the PBSA market is a classic case of demand = supply. Let's find out more points about what is so new about the PBSA market.

1. Many studies identify three main factors that are causing change: growing prices, unrest in the political and economic spheres, and ESG and the push for net zero. 
2. These have been picked out because they directly affect the fundamental principles of the PBSA sector, including how students perceive higher education and the function and accountability of accommodation providers within it.
3. With an increase in student enrollment amid a period of economic turbulence, the UK’s PBSA market has persisted in demonstrating that it is counter-cyclical.
4. The demand for domestic students is at an all-time high, while the supply of accommodation in the private rental sector (PRS), like HMOs, is limited and declining. Owners of PBSAs can satisfy the excess demand by offering goods at a competitive price for domestic students.
5. According to the most recent UCAS application data, local and high-value international student populations continue to expand.

Other types of student accommodations 

Students have various options for living arrangements. Regarding student accommodation options in 2022, there is a lot of diversity available, which might be a little perplexing if you are a novice. As long as your school approves them, each has some advantages and disadvantages but is still a good option. Only this will guarantee great standards throughout your entire stay. The different types of accommodations are 

1. Private rented homes with the help of brokers
2. On-campus accommodation. 
3. University halls of residence. 
4. Homestays 
5. PBSAs
6. Private halls 

We have discussed at length as to what are the advantages of living in a PBSA and what facilities are provided. It would certainly be ideal for every student who wants a great college experience without worrying too much about finances, transport, or daily and weekly tasks such as groceries. To help your student accommodation hunt, amber, the leading student accommodation provider, is your rescue. You can always rely on us for safe and scam-free accommodation! To know more, you can look into these 8 ways on how to spot a rental scam.