Shared (and Affordable) Accommodation in Pretoria

The Essence of Shared Living:

Shared living distinguishes itself from co-housing, commonly associated with communal living arrangements reminiscent of university or hostel dormitories. Instead, it is an environment where residents possess private spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms, while concurrently sharing communal areas like kitchens and lounges. This concept is gaining traction, particularly in regions characterised by expensive housing rentals, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads, students, and young professionals. 

Let’s delve into the various benefits of shared units, shedding light on why this living arrangement is becoming a sought-after choice for many individuals.

Cost-effective Living:

Shared units offer a cost-effective living solution. By splitting rent and utility expenses among the residents, the financial burden is significantly reduced. This allows individuals, particularly students and young professionals, to access quality housing in desirable locations without breaking the bank.

Social Connection and Companionship:

Living in a shared unit creates a built-in social network. Sharing a living space naturally fosters companionship, providing a supportive environment. It can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially for those who are new to a city or university. Shared living encourages interaction and the development of lasting friendships.

Diverse Perspectives and Experiences:

Living with roommates often means cohabiting with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life. This diversity enriches the living experience, offering exposure to different perspectives, customs, and experiences. It can broaden one’s horizons and contribute to personal growth.

Shared Responsibilities:

In a shared unit, responsibilities are distributed among the residents. From cleaning to grocery shopping, each member contributes to maintaining the living space. This shared responsibility not only fosters a sense of accountability but also ensures that the workload is distributed, making daily tasks more manageable.

Access to Larger and Well-Equipped Spaces:

Shared units often provide access to larger and more well-equipped spaces than individual accommodations. Common areas like kitchens, living rooms, and sometimes even recreational spaces are shared, creating a more spacious and comfortable living environment. This can enhance the overall quality of life for all residents.

Flexibility in Housing Choices:

Shared living comes in various forms – from shared apartments to co-living spaces and student housing. This flexibility allows individuals to choose the shared arrangement that best suits their needs and preferences. Whether seeking a private bedroom in a shared apartment or a co-living space with curated amenities, there are options for everyone.

Reduced Environmental Impact:

Sharing resources in a single living space contributes to a reduced environmental footprint. With fewer individual households, shared units are inherently more sustainable. This eco-friendly aspect aligns with the growing awareness of the importance of sustainable living practices.

Things to ponder on:

Are the spaces furnished or unfurnished apartments?

The choice between a furnished and unfurnished apartment will also affect the cost of your stay – but sometimes in less-than-obvious ways. Rent on an unfurnished apartment will tend to be cheaper.

On the other hand, fully furnished apartments come with everything you need for a comfortable and productive stay. You may find you end up spending less on buying additional furniture and accessories.

What’s included in the price?

Don’t take the rental price at face value.

Are there other costs involved?

Do you pay for water?

Is WiFi included?

Is the building well-maintained?

There’s no point choosing a reduced rent somewhere where you have to spend a fortune more installing fibre or paying for frequent repairs. As a tenant, you have more important things to think about.

How do we go about it with other parties? 

Creating a roommate agreement is crucial to prevent any strains in the relationship. It is vital to consider all expenses, encompassing potential rent hikes and services like electricity and Wi-Fi provided by external entities. Typically, the responsibility for managing bill payments falls on one individual, posing a significant burden if a roommate fails to meet their agreed-upon financial contribution in a rental arrangement.

City Property provides a range of housing options, including shared and furnished units, available at:

The Fields – https://cityproperty.co.za/properties/the-fields/ 

Howzit Hilda – https://www.thefieldspretoria.co.za/howzit-hilda/ 

Nedbank Plaza – https://cityproperty.co.za/properties/nedbank-plaza/ 

Velthof 

Eikenhof buildings 

Shared living presents a myriad of benefits, from economic advantages to the fostering of social connections and environmental sustainability. As individuals seek more than just a place to live, shared units provide a holistic living experience that enhances not only affordability but also community and personal growth. Consider the advantages of shared living when exploring your next housing option, and discover the enriching lifestyle it can offer.