Let's say you stay in Durban and want to study at the University of Cape Town. Obviously, the easiest solution is a university residence; most universities offer accommodation to students who need it, but at a price. You would also have to apply for residence well in advance of actually registering to study - there is a lot of demand for housing in res and if you don't apply early enough, you're out of luck there.
What are my Options?
Search your university's website for more information on their student residences; some are for postgraduate students only, and others may be gendered (e.g. Leo Marquard at UCT, which is boys only).
If you didn't apply for a place in a res in time, or if you just didn't apply at all, then you'll need to make alternative arrangements for accommodation.
1. Student Accommodation
The next-closest thing to a university residence is student housing - essentially, this is a residence owned and rented out by a company, such as My Domain Living, Student Accommodation SA and many more!
While some of these accommodation options can be quite pricey, they often come with all sorts of amenities: WiFi, secure buildings, even gyms!
2. Renting
If you can't, or don't want to, go via a student accommodation company, then your next option is to find a property available to rent. This can be an apartment, a granny flat, or even just a room in a house. Let's start off with the simplest option:
a. Estate Agents
Often, the safest way to rent a property is through an estate agent. You can head over to the websites of estate agents such as Rawsons, Seeff, Pam Golding and many more and search their available listings. You can then contact them to arrange a viewing.
The issue with estate agents is the cost: there are often additional fees involved and they may charge more than an owner looking to rent themselves. However, going through an estate agent can decrease the chances of you getting scammed.
b. Owner
You could also rent directly from an owner, although this is a very risky option. The world is full of people looking to make a quick buck and students looking for somewhere to stay are an easy target for such scam artists. If you do decide to rent from an owner, make sure that you view the property before signing any documents and make sure that they aren't renting you a flat that they don't even own!
c. Digs
Staying in a student digs is a very popular option and is, in fact, the stereotypical student housing arrangement. Essentially, you rent a room in a house where every other room is also being rented by a student. This kind of communal renting can help protect you from scams and also means you won't be living on your own, which can be an issue for some people.
