Maximising Rental Opportunities During University Clearing

19th August 2024

As landlords in Brighton, it’s crucial to stay informed about trends and opportunities that can impact your rental business. The university clearing process is one such opportunity, and 2023 has seen a notable increase in students securing their university places through UCAS Clearing.

With Clearing continuing to play a significant role in university admissions, it’s estimated that around 50,000 students go through this process annually. In 2023, 67,990 students found their places through Clearing, with 32% declining their original choices and 30% released after not meeting their offer terms.

While universities, including the University of Sussex, offer “guaranteed” housing for Clearing applicants, this guarantee often comes with limitations. For instance, Sussex will have at least 350 accommodation spaces available for Clearing students, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Given the high demand, not all students will secure university-managed housing, pushing many to seek alternatives in the private rental sector.

This is where our relationship with local universities becomes invaluable. Over the past 15 years, we’ve cultivated strong ties with higher education institutions in Brighton. This allows us to confidently fill any remaining rental vacancies, even as the academic year progresses. Clearing remains open until mid-October, giving students the flexibility to change courses or universities even after the term has started. This can lead to an influx of rental enquiries well into the autumn months.

It’s worth noting that with an average of 1.2 students per available place, the demand for housing will inevitably outstrip supply. For every five students placed, one will likely miss out on university accommodation. As thousands of students are expected to come to Brighton through Clearing, the deficit in available rooms is a real concern. This gap presents a prime opportunity for landlords to step in and meet the demand.

In the coming days, we anticipate a surge in enquiries as students scramble to secure housing. However, this wave of interest will likely continue through October, driven by students who may be reevaluating their options or entering Clearing late in the process.

By staying proactive and leveraging our established relationships with universities, we can ensure that your properties remain filled, maximising your rental opportunities during this busy period.