Finding somewhere to live

You can find places to live in lots of different ways...

Word of mouth
Tell everyone you know that you're looking for somewhere to live and ask them if they know anybody who needs a flatmate or lodger.

Notice boards
Look in shop windows, such as a newsagents or supermarket. Or look on youth centre or workplace notice boards for adverts.

Newspapers and magazines
Look up the ‘property to rent’ section. These are in local papers, specialist magazines and sometimes in national newspapers. Your local library should have reference copies so you don’t have to buy them yourself.

Accommodation agencies
These nearly always charge for their services. For a fee, they'll give you a list of landlords in the area.

Estate agents or letting agency

For private renting you could try an estate or letting agent. They will act on behalf of a landlord but will usually charge a fee.

Housing associations

You might be able to rent or even part buy through a housing association. To find out more about housing agencies go to Youth Information.com and look them up under types of housing.

Council accommodation

You might be able to apply for a council property; there are usually specific criteria for these. Try Nottingham City Council , Ashfield District Council , Bassetlaw District Council , Rushcliffe Borough Council , Gedling Borough Council , Broxtowe Borough Council , Newark and Sherwood District Council .

Housing Aid centres, advice centres or telephone helplines
These services are usually free, independent and confidential. They can give you details and lists of landlords and landladies in the area that you want to live in, refer you to a hostel or housing association, and can sometimes take up your case with the council for housing you.

You can find many of these organisations in the Yellow Pages or contact Shelter's Nottinghamshire Housing Advice Service.