Co-living spaces and multi-occupancy dwellings may seem similar on the surface, but they differ in important ways. While some claim the terms are synonyms for the same idea, others use them interchangeably. But neither of them is accurate. Despite being shared housing choices, co-living spaces and HMOs are two different concepts. The two are distinct in terms of their fundamental layout, kind of housing, and amenities provided. Discover the difference between co-living spaces for students and HMOs and the reasons for their differences by reading our guide here.
What is an HMO?
A house in multiple occupations (HMO) is a type of shared housing rented by a minimum of three individuals. To put it another way, it’s when a collection of people from all backgrounds and families come together just to rent a property. HMOs, also known as multiple occupancy units units, share utilities and facilities. All amenities, including the kitchen and bathroom, must be shared by the tenants.
This type of living arrangement has become more common in recent years due to its ability to reduce unnecessary expenses and improve convenience. In addition, a number of housing choices, including apartments, bedsits, shared houses, and motels, are classified as HMOs.
Characteristics Of An HMO
Fundamentally, an HMO is any type of property that can be customized to fit into your house. A stylish flat created specifically for four bachelors to live in could be an HMO. Or maybe it’s just a vacant apartment that needs to be furnished and arranged. You are the one in charge, even though you live in a shared residence. Here are a few fundamental HMO traits that will assist clarify the concept.
1. Cost efficiency
HMOs are housing properties that are shared by multiple people. Because of this, the rent gets split, and it’s pretty affordable for everyone involved in the deal.
2. Choosing your roommates
Since you’re basically renting out a living space along with other people, you can choose which people you want to stay with before looking for properties.
3. Flexibility
Since you’re sharing the house with other people, you have the flexibility to stay for as long as you want without the constraints of a set contract. You can choose to leave before the lease ends or extend it as other people being involved increases the security for the owners.
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What are co-living spaces for students?
As indicated by its name, a co-living space is used when a student lives with other tenants in a common apartment. Usually, students get their personal bedrooms, but they must share other facilities on the property with their roommates or other students. The arrangement of a co-living space revolves around the idea of communal living, where socialising, convenience, and sustainability are encouraged. These properties typically have facilities like housekeeping, maintenance, laundry, gyms, and common areas.
The most significant characteristic of co-living spaces is that they are intentionally well-designed spaces equipped to house several students at the same time. In addition to this, the facilities and amenities in a co-living space are well-managed to ensure the convenience of the housing community.
Characteristics Of A Co-Living Space
If you still feel confused about the distinction between co-living spaces and an HMO, the best way is to explore their specific characteristics.
1. Facilities
Co-living spaces have all the necessary amenities and facilities readily available for use. More often than not, the basic required utilities are included in the rent itself, and students don’t have to worry about additional costs.
2. Maintenance
Co-living housing options for students often have the facilities for housekeeping, maintenance, and other cleaning services, which relieves students of the additional burden of household work and responsibilities.
3. Communal living
Co-living spaces for students encourage communal living, where students tend to form a community within themselves. This helps international students meet like-minded peers and make new friends easily.
Significant Differences Between Co-Living Spaces For Students And HMOs
Once we’ve explored the basic ideas of co-living for students and HMOs, let us explore the prominent differences between these two housing options.
1. Personal Space
If you opt for co-living housing solutions, you get the choice of a personal bedroom, a shared bedroom, an attached kitchen, and a separate bathroom. Basically, you are given the liberty to choose whether you want your personal room or not. However, when it comes to HMOs, you might not get a personal bedroom if multiple people live in the same house. For instance, if four people live in a two-bedroom apartment, two people will have to share one bedroom, and you won’t get your private space.
2. Features
The owners or landlords of a co-living housing option always provide a wide range of amenities to attract a maximum number of students. They typically have all the amenities and basic utilities included in the rent itself so that students can enjoy facilities like consistent internet connectivity, hot water, electricity, fitness centres, sports facilities, and gyms. HMOs, being slightly unpredictable and unique, may or may not include amenities. Several times, the tenants may have to pay additional charges to cover the costs of electricity, WiFi, etc.
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3. Location
If you’re looking for an HMO by yourself, you can pick any location you want. You can pick a property near the college campus to avoid excessive commutes, or you can select a property in an isolated area for some peace of mind. On the other hand, co-living spaces are usually located in an area of hustle and bustle. They usually have vibrant surroundings where students can explore the city, local culture, different cuisines, and cafes or restaurants.
4. Other Tenants
HMOs have a huge advantage in this aspect because you can choose the tenants you want to move in with beforehand. In the case of co-living spaces, you may not get the opportunity to choose your roommate, flatmate, or other student to live with. Sometimes, co-living spaces have facilities to accommodate hundreds of students on the same premises. In such cases, it becomes difficult to determine who your roommate will be, giving way to compromise.
5. Community
Co-living spaces have a large number of people living on the same premises, which enables the tenants to interact with each other, find new people, and socialise more often. Eventually, students tend to form a close-knit community where people from different backgrounds, cultures, and upbringings give rise to diversity and social and emotional bonding. On the contrary, HMOs are more compact since they’re only a group of 4–5 people living together, usually already acquainted with each other.
Should you choose HMOs or co-living spaces?
From the above sections, it is quite evident that both housing options have their pros and cons. Ideally, it is recommended that first-year students opt for co-living spaces. Being new in a different country can be a challenging task. At such times, it is preferable to have a reliable community of peers and a support system you can fall into. Once you’ve gained some experience and acquainted yourself with the local culture, you can explore the options for private housing, like HMOs, where you can move in with your group of friends or acquaintances.
Most importantly, irrespective of the type of accommodation you choose, it is essential to be comfortable and feel safe and secure wherever you live. Ensure that you research the property thoroughly and refrain from falling prey to scammers and fraudsters.
Frequently Asked Questions?
Why is co-living so popular?
Nowadays, co-living is a popular choice among students since it offers a low-cost alternative. Moreover, most utilities and facilities are included in the rent. Thus, affordability and convenience make it a preferable choice.
Should you opt for shared living spaces?
Shared living spaces are an excellent idea to save on rent, deposits, and utility costs. However, it also includes sharing your personal space with roommates and dealing with any potential conflicts that may arise.
What is the difference between co-living and HMOs?
Co-living emphasises the idea of communal living, bonding, and social interaction, where people share a number of facilities on the same property. HMO is a housing option where people can rent out a property and stay together to reduce expenses.
Conclusion
Consequently, even though they are both predicated on shared living possibilities, co-living spaces and HMOs are two different concepts. In summary, an HMO is a shared area where a number of individuals rent a building and share amenities, utilities, etc. It provides greater freedom, latitude, and accountability.
Co-living housing choices center on communal living—that is, allowing several students to reside on the same property. Every student has the option to have a private room. The amenities and facilities are shared, though. Each of the two housing types has benefits and drawbacks. In accordance with the tenant’s needs and desires, each option can guarantee an unforgettable stay.