Attention, friends planning to study in Melbourne! It's important to understand the common accommodation options for international students: student apartments and social apartments. 🏠
Student apartments have the following features: inclusive of utilities, provide security, and have a 24-hour front desk. Additionally, student apartments are equipped with facilities such as a gym 🏋️♀️, study rooms ✍️, game rooms 🎮, movie theaters 🎬, outdoor BBQ areas 🍖, and offer services like meal plans 🍽️ and airport transfers 🚖. Student apartments are usually located close to the universities, have lower long-term rental prices, and are easier to sublet. Moreover, only students are allowed to stay, making it relatively safer. ❗️
However, student apartments also have some drawbacks: smaller unit sizes and kitchens that are closer to the beds, which may be affected by cooking fumes.
On the other hand, social apartments have the following characteristics: lower shared rental prices, larger and more flexible unit layouts, and the option to furnish the apartment with your own furniture. Additionally, social apartments often come with balconies 🌞 and large windows to enjoy Melbourne's night views 🌃. Common facilities include swimming pools 🏊♀️, gyms 🏋️♀️, karaoke rooms 🎤, and movie theaters 🎥.
However, social apartments also have some disadvantages: utilities are not included and need to be paid separately. Some unscrupulous agents may withhold the bond deposit without returning it to the RTBA (Residential Tenancies Bond Authority). Furthermore, when renting a social apartment, it's important to be aware of the market price to avoid being overcharged 🌱. Some well-located social apartments may not come furnished 🪑.
To summarize: student apartments are suitable for international students who have just arrived in Australia, while social apartments are more suitable for those who are familiar with Melbourne. When considering a social apartment, it's crucial to visit the property in person 👀, confirm that the bond deposit is held by the RTBA, and document the condition of the apartment with a condition report 📝 before moving in to avoid any potential compensation claims for damages later on.
We hope the above information is helpful for those who are about to study abroad! 🌟