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Student Search Story: How Sarah Shortlisted Safer Options

By Community TeamJanuary 5, 20266 min read

Sarah Mensah is a second-year Economics student at the University of Ghana who wanted to avoid repeating a stressful first-year housing experience. Her story shows how a simple checklist, patience, and clearer listing details can help students compare rooms without rushing.

The Challenge

During her first year, Sarah lived in a property she found through a friend of a friend. While the location was convenient, the room had persistent maintenance issues, and the landlord was unresponsive. Sarah decided that for her second year, she would be more deliberate in her search and use a reliable platform. She set clear priorities: good security, reliable utilities, responsive landlord, proximity to campus, and a quiet environment conducive to studying.

Discovering UniRooms

Sarah discovered UniRooms through a campus advertisement and appreciated being able to filter options based on her needs and budget. Detailed descriptions, photos, and trust cues helped her decide which owners to contact first.

The Search Process

Sarah spent two weeks shortlisting properties that met her criteria. She kept track of promising options, compared them side by side, and prepared questions for owners before arranging viewings.

Making the Decision

After viewing her strongest options, Sarah chose a self-contained room in East Legon. The owner was professional and communicative, the neighborhood felt suitable, and the included utilities made the higher price easier to understand. She kept receipts and written details before committing.

Life in Her New Accommodation

Sarah has now been in her new accommodation for six months and could not be happier with her decision. The landlord has been responsive to the few maintenance issues that have arisen, the neighborhood is safe, and she has made friends with other students in the building. Her living situation has positively impacted her academic performance because she can focus on her studies without housing-related stress.

Sarah's Advice for Other Students

Sarah offers the following advice based on her experience: Start your search early, be clear about your priorities and budget, use verified platforms like UniRooms, do not rush the decision, always visit properties in person, read reviews from other students, trust your instincts during viewings, ask plenty of questions, and document everything. She emphasizes that finding good accommodation is an investment in your academic success and overall well-being.

Sarah's story illustrates the importance of being proactive and informed when searching for student accommodation. Clearer information, patient comparison, and careful viewings can help students avoid pressure and make better housing decisions.

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