.webp)
.jpg)
Once you know roughly what you're looking for, the next question is where to actually find it.
There's no single place where every available student property in Exeter will be advertised. Where you look will depend on whether you want a shared house, a room on your own, Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) or something else. It's worth checking a few different places rather than relying on one website.
Where should I start my search?
Before opening every property website you can find, have a quick think about what you're actually looking for. It helps to know:
- your maximum budget
- whether you want bills included
- whether you're looking alone or as a group
- roughly where you'd like to live
- how far you're happy to travel to campus
- whether you want a house, flat, PBSA, studio or room with a resident landlord
- any accessibility or other requirements you have
You don't need to have everything decided, but a few priorities will make searching much easier.
What is Studentpad?
Studentpad is a good place to start. It's a free accommodation search site managed by the University, with properties advertised by private landlords and accommodation providers. You can use it to:
- search for houseshares and rooms
- find Purpose Built Student Accommodation
- search by property type, number of bedrooms and price
- contact landlords
- arrange viewings
- set up property alerts
- find other students looking for housemates through the messageboard
New properties are added throughout the year, so it's worth checking back rather than assuming what you see on your first search is everything that'll be available.
Remember that the property information itself is provided by the landlord or accommodation provider. You should still do your own checks, view the property where possible and make sure you're happy before agreeing to anything. Search for accommodation on Studentpad.
What about letting agents?
Lots of student properties in Exeter are advertised and managed through letting agents. Different agents will have different properties available, so you might want to look at several rather than relying on one. Before agreeing to a property, check:
- what you're being asked to pay and when
- who'll manage the property once you've moved in
- how repairs are reported
- what's included in the rent
- what you're agreeing to
Don't assume something is a good option just because it's being advertised through an agent. You should still view the property where possible, read the agreement and ask questions.
If you're being rushed into paying or signing before you've had the chance to check things properly, it's okay to ask for more information.
Where can I find Purpose Built Student Accommodation?
If you're looking for something similar to University halls, Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) could be worth exploring. These are privately operated student residences and can include shared flats, en-suite rooms and studios. Many have bills included and may also offer things like study spaces, social areas, receptions and security.
The University has information about private accommodation options and PBSA in Exeter, which can help you see what's available.
Explore private accommodation options through the University.
You can then visit individual providers' websites to compare things like price, location, room type, facilities and what's included.
What other accommodation websites can I use?
You'll also find student rooms and properties advertised through private property and accommodation websites. These can include:
These websites are run by private companies and aren't managed by the Guild or University, so we're not recommending one over another. Use them as another way to see what's out there, but make your own checks before agreeing to anything.
Can I find accommodation through social media?
Yes. Student groups and social media can be useful for finding spare rooms, particularly if you're searching on your own or someone needs another person to join an existing house. You might see posts from students:
- looking for housemates
- advertising a room they need someone to take over
- putting together a new house group
- sharing properties they've found
But remember that a post being in a student Facebook or WhatsApp group doesn't mean the property or person has been checked. Be cautious if someone:
- wants money before you've properly checked the property
- won't let you view it or arrange a video viewing
- puts pressure on you to decide immediately
- asks you to transfer money in an unusual way
- gives you information that doesn't match the property advert
- can't clearly explain who the landlord or agent is
If something doesn't feel right, stop before sending money and check it. Read our advice on scams before paying for a property you've found online.
What if I'm looking for a room rather than a whole house?
You don't need to have a ready-made group to find somewhere to live. Studentpad's messageboard can help you find other students looking for housemates, and sites such as SpareRoom can be useful for finding individual rooms.
Existing student households sometimes advertise a spare room too, for example, if someone's plans have changed. If you're thinking about joining an existing household, ask about more than just the room. Find out who you'll be living with, how bills work and what the household is like. If you're meeting potential housemates you've found online, meet somewhere public first.
Should I view somewhere before agreeing to rent it?
Where possible, yes. Read our advice on what to look for when viewing a student house.
What if I'm struggling to find somewhere?
Try widening your search before assuming there's nothing available. You could:
- look at a wider range of areas
- consider a room rather than a whole property
- look at PBSA as well as shared houses
- consider living with a resident landlord
- look as an individual rather than waiting for a group
- check Studentpad regularly for new listings
- contact accommodation providers or agents directly
The Exeter market can change quickly, and availability is particularly limited for 2026/27, so keep an eye on the University's latest accommodation information too. Check the University's latest private accommodation information.
How can the Guild help?
If you've found somewhere but aren't sure about what you're being asked to pay or agree to, or something about an advert doesn't seem right, get in touch.
We can help you understand your housing options and work through specific questions before you commit.
Complete our enquiry form or email advice@exeterguild.com for support.
