Shared accommodation – or a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) – is a unique way of living that provides tenants with affordable housing by sharing living spaces and splitting the price of rent and bills.
But is co-living the right choice for you? While it can be a great solution for many, it’s not for everyone, and feeling comfortable in your home is essential. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of co-living to help you make an informed decision.
If you feel like you need more support, reach out to our friendly team of experts at Purseglove and ask about our tenant services. We manage multiple HMOs in Nottinghamshire and can help you find your perfect match.
Understanding the different types of HMOs
There are three main types of tenancy configuration for HMOs, each offering different amenities and price points. Before choosing which property you want to apply for, make sure you fully understand what your tenancy includes and what you’ll be sharing!
Room only tenancies: Tenants have their own bedroom but share bathroom and kitchen facilities. This is usually the cheapest option and is ideal for those prioritising budget over privacy.
Ensuite rooms: These tenancies include a private bathroom (usually attached to your bedroom), while the kitchen and living spaces are shared. This setup is highly sought-after, offering a balance of affordability and privacy.
Semi-self contained: Tenants have a private bathroom and basic kitchen amenities, such as a sink, worktops and storage. These types of rooms are quite uncommon, as council tax regulations generally require HMO tenants to share kitchen facilities.
Each configuration suits different needs, from those looking to save money to those who prefer more privacy.
The Benefits of HMO Living
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of co-living, from cost savings to the chance to connect with more people.
Affordability
The primary benefit of co-living is its affordability. Most HMOs include all bills in the rent, simplifying budgeting by covering rent, utilities, internet, and council tax in a single payment. Shared facilities further reduce costs, with bills split between multiple individuals. This makes shared accommodation an excellent budget-friendly option.
Tenancy agreement
If your application is successful, you’ll need to sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement. These are similar to standard rental agreements, often with a minimum term of at least 6 months, and outline clear legal terms, requirements, and protections for both tenant and landlord.
Having a tenancy agreement in place – AST or otherwise – gives you peace of mind. It assures your place in the HMO is secured, and provides you with understanding of what is expected of you once you move in.
Furnishings
Most HMOs come with furniture included, so you won’t need to buy anything before moving in. But beware, landlords and agents may vary in what “fully furnished” means to them. Some properties might have sofas and storage, but an empty kitchen, while others might be fully stocked with everything you could need. Always confirm what’s included with your agent or landlord before signing the contract, and make sure you confirm the inventory on move-in day to avoid any unwelcome surprises or issues later on.
At Purseglove, our fully furnished HMOs include all the essentials – just bring your suitcase and toothbrush! Our experienced team has streamlined the move-in process to ensure everything runs smoothly, every time.
Community and social benefits
Another great thing about HMOs is that they can create a natural sense of community and help to reduce loneliness – especially for people who are new to an area or living alone for the first time. The shared spaces encourage socialising, which can boost mental health and help you build lasting connections.
HMOs often attract a diverse group of tenants, bringing together people from various backgrounds. This mix of perspectives and cultures can create a richer, more rewarding living experience. But don’t be alarmed, a great property manager will match tenants who complement each other well to foster a positive environment where everyone can learn and grow together.
Who benefits most from HMO living?
HMOs are a great fit for tenants seeking affordable housing with easy-to-manage utilities. They also suit people who value community and are comfortable sharing spaces. Overall, HMOs offer a flexible, budget-friendly option for all sorts of people, from those saving for a home deposit to those experiencing independent living for the first time or transitioning from supported housing. For young adults or anyone not yet ready for the commitment of renting a full property, HMOs provide a practical and realistic first step.
Adjusting to shared living
To be successful in your new shared home, everyone needs to have a “give-and-take” mindset; you may need to coordinate kitchen schedules, or share laundry facilities when space is limited. To maintain harmony try to engage in open communication, respect shared spaces, and be mindful of your housemates’ routines. Flexibility and understanding can help to create a cooperative and comfortable living environment for everyone.
Managing personality clashes
No one can be best friends with everyone. And while HMOs offer affordability and community, personality clashes among tenants can be challenging. Being open and tolerant of different lifestyles and habits is the key to success. It might help to follow these steps:
- Set up house agreements, such as who does which chores when.
- Communicate calmly to resolve conflicts or potential future issues.
- Establish a mutual respect for cultural or lifestyle differences.
A well-managed and carefully balanced HMO, like those we handle at Purseglove, ensures that tenants are thoughtfully matched and any issues are addressed promptly. This creates a smoother, more comfortable living experience for everyone.
Understanding legal and tenancy commitments
Tenants living in HMOs usually have the same legal responsibilities as those renting any other type of property. Typically, this includes signing an AST, or, under new reforms, an Assured Tenancy – with a fixed rental period of at least six months. Tenants must also adhere to standard tenancy rules. While they don’t hold exclusive rights to shared facilities, the law protects their rights to privacy and quiet enjoyment of their private rooms.
Final thoughts: Is shared accomodation right for you?
Choosing to live in an HMO means considering your lifestyle and how comfortable you are sharing spaces with others. While HMOs offer excellent benefits – such as affordability and a sense of belonging – they also require flexibility and cooperation between tenants. If you’re looking for budget-friendly housing with a social aspect, an HMO could be your perfect fit. Just make sure you think it through fully before taking the leap to determine if shared accommodation suits your needs, personality and expectations.
Making the right choice: HMO living in Nottinghamshire
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to live, or are a landlord with an HMO property you need help managing, our expert team at Purseglove can help. HMOs are our bread and butter – we know what it takes to create positive, well-balanced co-living experiences for tenants and property owners alike! Get in touch to find out more.