How to Find the Perfect HMO Property as a Young Professional

Finding the right place to live is a crucial decision, especially for young professionals who want a balance of affordability, convenience, and a positive living environment. House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) properties offer a cost-effective and social way to live in prime locations, but how do you ensure you’re picking the best one?

This guide will walk you through what to look for when choosing a HMO, key questions to ask during viewings, and how to understand your tenancy agreement before signing the dotted line.

Key Features to Look for in a HMO:

Not all HMOs are the same, so it’s important to evaluate a few key factors to find one that meets your needs.

A. Location and Transport Links

·       Is the property near your workplace or within easy commuting distance?

·       Are there good transport links, such as bus stops or train stations nearby?

·       Is the neighbourhood safe, with access to essential amenities like supermarkets, gyms, and cafes?

B. Housemate Compatibility

·       Who are the current housemates? Are they also young professionals?

·       What is the general vibe of the household; social or more independent?

·       Does the house have a good balance of people in terms of cleanliness, schedules, and lifestyles?

C. Property Condition and Facilities

·       Is the house well-maintained, clean, and in good condition?

·        Are the communal areas spacious and comfortable?

·       Is there adequate storage space in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms?

·       Are essential appliances (washing machine, fridge, oven) in good working order?

D. Rent and Bills

·       Is the rent competitive for the area?

·       Does the rent include bills (gas, electricity, water, WiFi, council tax)?

·       Are there any hidden costs such as service fees or extra cleaning costs?

E. Safety and Security

·       Does the property have proper fire safety measures (fire doors, smoke alarms)?

·       Are there secure locks on bedroom doors?

·       Is the house licensed as an HMO, meaning it meets local government safety standards?

Questions to Ask During Viewings:

When viewing a HMO, don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions to get a full picture of what living there will be like. Here are some important ones:

About the Property:

·       How long have the current tenants been living here? (This can indicate tenant satisfaction.)

·       How is cleaning managed? Are there cleaners for communal areas, or do tenants share the responsibility?

·       Are there any maintenance issues that need to be fixed before moving in?

About Tenancy Agreements:

·       What is the length of the contract?

·       What is the notice period if I want to move out?

·       Is there a deposit, and is it protected under a government deposit scheme?

About Costs and Bills:

·       What exactly is included in the rent?

·       How are bills managed if they are not included?

·       Is there a fair use policy on utilities, and what happens if bills exceed the agreed amount?

Final Tips for Finding the Right HMO:

·       Meet Potential Housemates if possible, chat with them to get a sense of the house dynamic.

·        Check Online Reviews. Look up the landlord or letting agency to see if they have good reviews.

Finding the perfect HMO takes a bit of research, but the effort is worth it. By considering location, housemate compatibility, costs, and property quality, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable living experience.