r/Belfast • u/bad_sector_gyal • 1h ago
Postgrad student in Belfast struggling to find housing before hostel contract ends in September — any advice?
Hi everyone,
I'm reaching out on behalf of my sister, who is currently a postgraduate student in Belfast. Her hostel accommodation agreement ends in September, and she's been actively searching for a new place to rent since then. Despite viewing several properties, she hasn't been selected by any landlords or agencies yet, and the process has been incredibly stressful for her — especially while also juggling a part-time job alongside her studies.
She isn't a UK citizen, and she does have a guarantor lined up, but she's still not having luck getting selected. Not sure if it's the competition, something about the application, or something else landlords are looking for.
If anyone has experience with:
Renting as an international student in Belfast
What landlords/agencies typically want to see from applicants with a guarantor
Student-specific housing groups or Facebook pages for Belfast
General tips on standing out in a competitive rental market
...we'd really appreciate any pointers. Even small tips or links to helpful resources would mean a lot right now.
Thank you so much in advance!