Renting a guesthouse can be a wise and affordable choice, especially for students, workers, or people in transition. Guesthouses offer private rooms with shared bathrooms and are often more flexible and economical than traditional apartments.
In this article, we explain what guesthouses are, how to find one near you, and what to consider before moving in.
What Is a Boarding House?
A boarding house, also known as a “rooming house,” is a type of accommodation where tenants rent individual rooms while sharing common areas such as:
- Bathroom
- Kitchen
- Dining room or living room
Boarding houses generally include utilities (electricity, water, internet) in the rent. Some also offer meals or cleaning services. These accommodations are common in urban areas, near universities, hospitals, and city centers.
Who is a boarding house for?
Student residences are ideal for:
- Students looking for affordable housing near school
- Single professionals or contract workers
- Newcomers to the city looking for temporary accommodation
- Seniors seeking community living
- Budget-conscious tenants seeking flexible rental terms
Benefits of renting in student residences
- Lower rent; often cheaper than apartments or studios
- Utilities included: electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are usually included in the rent
- Flexible terms; weekly or monthly options available
- Communal environment; living with others, often in a friendly shared space
- No large security deposit; minimal move-in fees compared to a full apartment
How to find student accommodation to rent?
🔍 1. Search online platforms
Start by checking popular rental sites and local listing services:
- Craigslist.org – Go to the “Rooms & Shares” section for your city
- Facebook Marketplace – Search for “student housing” or “room for rent”
- Roomster.com – Best for shared accommodations and room rentals
- SpareRoom.com – Specializes in shared accommodations
- Zillow.com, HotPads.com, or PadMapper.com – Filter by room rental
Use keywords such as:
- “Boarding house near me”
- “Cheap room for rent with shared kitchen”
- “Monthly rental with meals”
2. Explore community forums and local classifieds
Offline sources often hold hidden gems:
Notice boards at laundromats, supermarkets, and community centers
Local newspapers or Free classified ads
Universities and colleges often offer rooms nearby.
Tip: Many older or private landlords don’t advertise online, so physical ads may offer better deals.
3. Ask questions on Facebook or WhatsApp
Join local housing and rental groups, such as:
“Rooms for rent in [City Name]”
“Affordable housing in [City Name]”
“Students looking for rooms in [City Name]”
Post a simple message like:
“Looking for a safe and clean guesthouse near [Neighborhood]. Budget: [$$$]. Ready to move in by [Date]. Any leads welcome!”
4. Consult religious and cultural organizations
Churches, mosques, temples, and cultural organizations often help their members find housing. Some even run their own guesthouses or boarding houses, particularly for students or immigrants.
Contact local organizations and ask if they know of any available rooms.
5. Call 211 for help (US only)
211 connects you with local services, including:
- Transitional shelters
- Public housing
- Emergency shelters with long-term housing
You can also visit https://www.211.org to see lists of services available in your area.
What to Look for in a Boarding House
Cleanliness: Health and comfort guaranteed
Safety/Security: Ask about locks, surveillance, and emergency exits
Bathroom Access: Shared or private bathrooms? Cleanliness is paramount
Kitchen Access: Do you cook? Is there storage space?
Laundry: On-site washing machine, saves time and money
Rules/Curfew: Ask about house rules in advance
Furnished or Unfurnished: Save money if furniture is included
Other Tenants: Students? Workers? Quiet? Compatibility?
Questions to ask before renting:
- What is included in the rent (meals, utilities, Wi-Fi)?
- How many people live in the house?
- What are the house rules (guests, quiet hours, kitchen)?
- Is a deposit required? What is the lease term (weekly/monthly)?
Warning signs to avoid
🚫 Landlords who require full payment before viewing
🚫 No written lease or unclear terms
🚫 Overcrowded or unsanitary housing
🚫 Unsafe neighborhoods
🚫 No access to essential amenities like bathrooms or kitchens
Conclusion
Finding a boarding house for rent can be a great solution for anyone looking for affordable, community-based housing. With online tools, local resources, and a little legwork, you can find a safe and affordable room that meets your needs.
Always visit the property before committing, ask detailed questions, and make sure the lease terms are clearly documented. With the right approach, your next boarding house could feel like home.
