Renting student accommodation via classifieds in 2026 offers a direct way to find affordable housing, but it requires careful verification to avoid common rental scams.
Top Classifieds and Rental Platforms for 2026
- India-Specific: NoBroker is a lead for zero-brokerage listings, while Housing.com, 99acres, and MagicBricks offer the largest inventories. Quikr Homes remains a major player for general classified housing ads.
- Specialized Student Housing: Platforms like Amber, Student.com, Stanza Living, and Zolo Stays focus specifically on student-managed accommodations and co-living.
- International: Sites such as Zillow, Craigslist, and Spotahome are widely used for off-campus housing abroad.
How to Rent Safely
- Verify Listings: Always visit the property in person or request a live, timestamped video tour before paying any fees. Conduct a reverse image search on ad photos to ensure they aren't stolen from other listings.
- Avoid Advance Payments: Never pay a security deposit or rent before signing a formal, written lease agreement.
- Check Legal Documentation: Ensure you receive a registered rental agreement. Avoid verbal agreements, as they offer no legal protection.
- Inquire About All Costs: Classified ads often list the "base rent." Clarify if utilities (Wi-Fi, water, electricity), maintenance fees, or "hidden" charges are included.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Use traceable payment options like bank transfers or credit cards rather than untraceable cash or wire transfers.
Identifying Red Flags
- Suspiciously Low Rent: If the price is significantly below market value for the area, it is likely a scam.
- High Pressure: Be cautious of landlords who pressure you to decide immediately or pay quickly to "secure" the room.
- Refusal to Meet: If the person listing the ad refuses to meet in person or via video call, do not proceed.