By Gabriella Garofalo, MFA2025
Just like most things in London, my experience finding an apartment was fast-paced, quick and exciting. When I was accepted into London Business School, I knew I would need to find accommodation and that it might not be the easiest experience. Finding accommodation was a several-month long venture where remaining determined and hopeful was important.
My first step in finding my accommodation was to determine what type of accommodation I wanted to stay in. I originally targeted student housing but after some research I felt an apartment would be best. The second thing I determined is what was important for me was to be close to both campuses. After determining these two factors, I started to look online to familiarize myself with the neighbourhoods, prices and what can be expected.
The apartment search really picked up in June for me. I visited London in June to really hammer down what area I was interested in living in. After some exploration, I decided to narrow my search to Marylebone and St. Johns Wood. I really enjoyed both neighbourhoods and what they offered, and how close they were to LBS campuses. Unfortunately, I did not have my visa yet in June so I was not able to really look for an apartment with the intention of renting. I additionally signed up for most realty group promotional mailing for my desired areas so that I could make sure I was seeing everything available to me. The companies I used were Newingtons, Chestersons, Savills, Dexters, Foxtons, and a few others. I kept checking websites during July to see what was available. I decided I was not interested in signing a lease before I saw an apartment in person. This was fully a personal choice and I know of others who rented with just seeing an apartment online and are more than happy. I think either option is great, and you should do what feels best for you. The last step I took to prepare before I arrived in August was to reach out to some realtors, explain what I was looking for, and set up appointments for when I arrived.
When I arrived in August, I hit the ground running with the apartment search. I arrived two weeks before the start of the programme so I could provide ample time to find an apartment. Working with multiple realty groups, I viewed many apartments in the St. Johns Wood area and Marylebone area, and the search was not easy and a bit stressful. I also looked at several student accommodations when I arrived to keep my options opened. I ended up finding an apartment after a week and am very satisfied with my apartment. I feel I picked up on a few key insights when searching for an apartment from my experience.
The first thing I would suggest is if you want to rent in person, arrive in early August. The general consensus I was receiving from most realtors is that most of the apartments that fit my criteria were taken by other students by the time I arrived in mid-August. August is a very busy time for real estate and realtors in London so getting a head start is something I would advise. Secondly, if you can, be open to several different options and areas. I had originally narrowed my search to a one bedroom but had more success when I expanded my parameters. Another thing I did that helped and eventually led me to my apartment was walking into the realtors office and asking for help. I feel this shows the estate agent you are serious about renting and I felt this made their response time quicker. I found my apartment by walking into a realty office and the estate agent showed me my apartment right then and there. Lastly, make sure you have all the required documents ready to go before you come to London. The renting process moves quickly once you put in an offer, so being ready is important.
I would be lying if I said the accommodation process was a breeze. At times, I was discouraged and felt I might not find the right place. My biggest tip is to remain hopeful and keep looking. Living near LBS campus is extremely convenient and helpful, but living in any area of London will be great.