Renting or Buying Accommodation

The Englishman's home is his castle as the old saying goes! The property market in the UK is based on personal ownership much more so than renting (which is a common characteristic in the rest of Europe).

Renting Accommodation if you are not offered accommodation by your employer there is a large number of properties available to rent, your options are really based on the type of property you wish to rent. Flats are either purpose built or have been created by dividing up a large house. They vary from one to three or more bedrooms. You can rent these as an entire unit either as a family or with a friends or colleagues. Flat-shares are advertised once a flat is occupied and a room has become available for rent. You will share common facilities, like the kitchen, bathroom and living room with your 'flat-mates'

Bed-sits or Studios are like mini-flats - you basically live in a single room where you will have cooking facilities, your bed and couch are generally one and the same!

Houses can be rented, but they are very expensive especially in London. 

Hostels provide a place to stay, but you will probably be better off finding a flat or flat share for the longer term.

You can use an agent or read the ads in the local paper, alternatively you can search online (). Costs vary enormously depending on location and type of property. An average would be between £50 to £100 per week and you will generally be required to pay one month's rent upfront as a deposit (bond) to be held by the landlord, returnable when you leave the property (in good condition!)

Buying Accommodation There is a vast range of properties and styles at to suit pretty well everyone. Generally you will need to arrange a mortgage (loan) (see mortgages in banks and banking) but you will have had to save the deposit (usually between 5-10%) before the mortgage company will lend to you. Most banks will tailor a package to you as an overseas nurse. Additionally you will have to pay a solicitor (lawyer) to provide a conveyance service (a check on the status of the property). This can vary but should be between £500 - £1000.

The solicitor will also collect stamp duty from you if you are the purchaser; this is a tax payable to the government based on the value of the property. This is currently 1% on properties valued up to £250,000.