Posted: Saturday, June 1, 2019

Permitted payments

Before the tenancy starts (payable to Graysons Properties Ltd ‘the Agent’)

Holding Deposit: 1 week’s rent which will be paid towards your first rent.
Deposit: minimum of £350 and maximum of five weeks rent, No deposit required if UK based guarantor (need to be in employment and possibly a homeowner)

During the tenancy (payable to the Agent)

For English properties:
Payment of £50.00 if you want to change the tenancy agreement
Payment of interest for the late payment of rent (any rent payments that are 14 days late unless an agreement is in place) at a rate of 3% plus Bank of England base interest rate on that day.
Payment of £18.00 for the reasonably incurred costs for the loss of keys or key card.
Payment of any unpaid rent or other reasonable costs associated with your early termination of the tenancy

During the tenancy (payable to the provider) if permitted and applicable

Utilities – gas, electricity, water
Communications – telephone and broadband
Installation of cable/satellite
Subscription to cable/satellite supplier
Television Licence
Council Tax

Tenant protection

Graysons Properties Ltd is a member of Client Money Protect, membership number CMP005701 which is a client money protection scheme, and also a member of The Property Ombudsman, membership number D11919 which is a redress scheme.

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Posted: Wednesday, May 15, 2019

At Graysons Properties, our team believes that for a new student moving to university, and for a young professional starting a new job, the additional responsibility that comes with running a household can be daunting. Having to provide for yourself, keep your surroundings clean and pay the bills on time can be overwhelming for anybody – especially for those who have never lived alone before.

What do all bills inclusive mean?

All bills Inclusive or Utilities included: “All bills inclusive” generally means that all of the utility costs are included in the rental fee amount. These utilities may include, but are not limited to, electricity costs, water usage and sewer costs, electric heating costs, natural gas heating costs and old heating costs. Graysons Properties will also include in their All Bills Inclusive Package, superfast broadband and a cleaning service. In addition some of our student accommodations/flats/houses also benefits from a Sky package.

In a national poll, 77% of all students said that a strong broadband connection is essential item as part of their bills inclusive package for their student accommodation. You will be pleased to know that at Graysons Properties the following properties benefit from a dedicated 1GB Fibre line, as part of the bills inclusive ; City View Jesmond Newcastle, City View@ Phoenix House Sunderland and City View @ Thornhill Crescent Sunderland

A national research conducted by Accommodation for Students, of their respondents, a staggering 70% considers a bills inclusive rent package important. 90% of Graysons Properties accommodation for students and professionals in Newcastle and Sunderland provide bills inclusive packages.
Meanwhile, student advice sites such as Save the Student are actively recommending that new tenants try to negotiate bills as part of the rent.

The benefits to student and professional tenants

• Simplicity
• Ease of use
• Budget

Setting up utilities contracts can be a frustrating experience, especially if you have never done it before. Working out how to split the bills is a good way to stir up arguments between housemates.

Having bills included, eliminates these possible points of discord. Instead, by offering a bills-inclusive rent package Graysons Properties are giving their student and professional tenants a much easier way of managing their money. You also have the peace of mind that utility payments are under control.

Research by Natwest, suggests that just under a third of students don’t actively budget. While half of students, find having to manage their budget, adds to the stress of living away from home.
A Graysons Properties bills inclusive rent package helps with budgeting and reduces the stress of having to manage money.

Are you looking for a Bills Inclusive Package for your new Student Accommodation/Flat/ House in Newcastle or Sunderland?

Contact our Team at Graysons Properties and live in one of our luxury student accommodations/flats/houses (suitable for professionals) in either Sunderland or Newcastle

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Posted: Thursday, May 9, 2019

If you are looking for student flats or apartments in Sunderland – Graysons Properties provide a wide selection to let. Very modern, high quality, clean, well-equipped, competitive priced and central to both the Sunderland University and main transport (metro, buses & rail) links.

You deserve the best:
– no deposit*
– all bills included
– very fast fibre optic broadband
– movie & sport package
– cleaner services
– 24/7 emergency & maintenance cover
– 24/7 CCTV security

Our student flats and apartments in Sunderland

– City View at Phoenix House
– Sunderland City Centre Properties
– City View at Thornhill Crescent

If you are new to Sunderland Universities and you are looking for a flat, let Graysons Properties help you today! Check our website, where we have a wide selection of student flats, houses and rooms to rent in Sunderland.

For more information, please feel free to contact us and one of our professionals on 0191 260 0680.

Would you like to be among the first to get the latest student rooms/flats update? Please, like our Facebook page: facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/

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Posted: Thursday, May 9, 2019

Phoenix House is an amazing student new development in the heart of Sunderland City Centre. Very close to shopping centre, Empire Cinemas, McDonnald’s, banks, etc. Greggs and Subway occupy the ground floor of this development. It is in walking distance to University of Sunderland, City Campus. It is located just 2 minutes walking from main Sunderland metro and train station.

Phoenix House has a brand new student rooms, flats and luxury apartments. The development enjoys wonderful views and is ideally situated for local amenities. How Phoenix House in Sunderland looks like? Watch our video bellow, please. For more information, please feel free to contact us and one of our professionals on 0191 260 0680. Would you like to be among the first to get the latest student rooms/flats update? Please, like our Facebook page: facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/

Student Accommodation in Sunderland – City View @ Phoenix House

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Posted: Friday, May 3, 2019

Many of our international students are asking how they are in Sunderland? Is it perhaps, as it is popularly thought – a cloudy city in the far north of England, or maybe as the name suggests it is also a city of the sun?

Well, it happens anyway. Today, we would like to present our May photos of the University of Sunderland buildings in full sun. It’s only a few minutes on foot from our Student Accommodation in Sunderland City Centre.

Do you see this tall building on the right in the picture above, right next to our City View @ Phoenix House sutudent dormitory – just a few minutes on foot from the university.

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Posted: Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Easter opening times announcement, for Sunderland & Newcastle offices:

Friday 19th April 2019: CLOSED
Monday 22nd April 2019: CLOSED
Tuesday 23rd April 2019: CLOSED
Wednesday 24th April 2019: CLOSED
Thursday 25th January 2019: 09:00-17:00 [normal office hours resume]

Have a wonderful time!
Graysons Properties Team

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Posted: Friday, April 5, 2019

Dear current and future students of Newcastle upon Tyne. We wanted to inform you that due to high demand, there are only a few properties in Jesmond and Newcastle for the academic year 2019/20. If you are interested in this location, please contact our office urgently.

CITY VIEW JESMOND

All FLATS in Block A & Block B – GONE
*there are available only single spaces, please contact for details
STUDIOS – there are few studios are still available to rent

JESMOND

26 Manor House Road, Jesmond – GONE
35 Glenthorn Road, Jesmond – GONE
57 Forsyth Road, Jesmond – GONE

NEWCASTLE

23 Claremont Road, Newcastle upon Tyne – GONE
125 Croydon Road, Newcastle upon Tyne – AVAILABLE
131 Croydon Road, Newcastle upon Tyne – GONE

If you are interested in viewing one of our accommodations then please call the office on 0191 2600 680 or email on enquiries@graysonsproperties.co.uk

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/ and look out for our latest offers!!

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Posted: Friday, April 5, 2019

Welcome to Jesmond, one of the nicest neighbourhood in Newcastle upon Tyne. We have inquiries from students from around the world who intend to study in Newcastle and use our student accommodation in City View Jesmond or Jesmond. They ask what the neighbourhood looks like – so we have especially moved for you around our properties to help you get to know the neighbourhood in a virtual way. We invite you to view the photos.

If you are interested in viewing one of our accommodations then please call the office on 0191 2600 680 or email on enquiries@graysonsproperties.co.uk

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/ and look out for our latest offers!!

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Posted: Friday, March 15, 2019

If you are looking for modern and affordable student flats or apartments in Jesmond / Newcastle upon Tyne. Graysons Properties provide a wide selection to let. High quality, clean and well-equipped, this competitively priced accomodation, is central to both the Newcastle & Northumbria Universities. Close to all main transport links.

You deserve the best:

• no deposit*
• all bills included
• very fast fibre optic broadband
• movie & sport package
• complementary cleaning service
• 24/7 emergency & maintenance cover
• 24/7 CCTV security

Our student flats and apartments in Jesmond (please follow the links below):

• City View Jesmond (from £95 pppw)
  
• 26 Manor House Road, Jesmond (from £95 pppw)
  
• 35 Glenthorn Road, Jesmond (from £115 pppw)
  
• 57 Forsyth Road, Jesmond (from £88 pppw)
  

If you are new to Newcastle & Northumbria Universities and you are looking for a flat, let Graysons Properties help you today! Check our website, where we have a wide selection of student flats, houses and rooms to rent in Jesmond / Newcastle upon Tyne.

For more information, please feel free to contact us and one of our professionals on 0191 260 0680.

Would you like to be among the first to get the latest student rooms/flats update? Please, like our Facebook page: facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/

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Posted: Friday, March 15, 2019

Living with Graysons Properties in Sunderland Student Accommodation in a city like Sunderland, provides an amazing experience. Graysons Properties know moving away to university is one of the biggest and most exciting decisions you’ll ever make, and you’ll find a home from home at Sunderland with Graysons Properties.

Graysons Properties offer a great choice of Sunderland City Centre Student Accommodation for you to choose from and our rent prices include heating, lighting, water, fuel, Wi-Fi and complimentary cleaning. By living in one of our Student Accommodation you can take comfort from the fact the we are always there to help. Graysons Properties have a dedicated 24/7 Emergency Line and an Interactive Property App to communicate with the office. Some of our Properties also have complimentary sky packages.

All of our Sunderland Student Accommodation is self-catered, with fully equipped kitchens and on-site laundry facilities. We understand the importance of having a reliable and fast internet connection. Our City View Phoenix House and City View Thornhill Properties are well equipped with WiFi and Hard Wired Ethernet Connections. City View @ Phoenix House has its very own dedicated 1GB Fibre line

Fantastic locations

Our City Centre Sunderland Student Accommodations are within a short distance walk of the two Sunderland University Campuses. Graysons Properties offers a range of student properties and can help cater for students on various budgets. We have Sunderland Student Accommodation ranging from as little as £72 per person per week. Our Deluxe Sunderland Student Accommodation include properties City View @ Thornill and City View @ Phoenix House. You can find a double ensuite bedroom in these properties from as little as £90 per person per week.

Living with other students is a great way to meet new people, and each of our Sunderland Student Accommodation residences provides you with the perfect opportunity to make friends with people from around the world. You’ll have the option to choose who you want to live with, whether that’s with friends you already know, or we can find a room for you in one of our mixed or single gender apartments. If you have your prefer your own personal space you can choose one of our Deluxe Studio Apartments. We also have couples’ accommodation available if you’re coming to the University with your partner. Our Penthouse Studio apartments @ Phoenix House have been specifically designed with couples in mind

Student Accommodation in Sunderland

If you are interested in viewing one of our accommodations then please call the office on 0191 2600 680 or email on enquiries@graysonsproperties.co.uk

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/ and look out for our latest offers!!

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Posted: Friday, March 8, 2019

On the occasion of the Women’s Day we give all the ladies the best wishes for health, prosperity and the very beautiful days in life. We wish you a smile that radiates your faces and make you always feel appreciated.

We wish you a hot cup of coffee that someone will do for you, an unexpected phone call from an old friend and the joy of small things that will please you every day.

Graysons Properties

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Posted: Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Newcastle upon Tyne and Sunderland are popular cities in the UK for international students.

Why choose us?
We’ve built up many years’ experience in helping accommodate international students (undergraduates and post-graduates) in our student accommodation.

All our Student Properties are centrally located and have excellent transport links!
At Graysons Properties, we make the renting process clear and simple, so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to.
If you can’t view a property, then don’t worry. We can send photographs, floor plans, videos or even FaceTime or Skype you when we’re at the property.

Rules and Legislation
It can be difficult to understand the laws and regulations that may apply to you when deciding to study in the UK. Before securing your property we will perform Right to Rent checks to ensure you can legally rent. You must provide us with a valid Residence Permit for the duration of your stay, and sometimes, as well a copy of your University acceptance letter.

Guarantors and Rent
As many international tenants don’t have access to a UK based guarantor, rent is usually payable in advance, but this will be discussed with you by the lettings team as every case can vary. We could also recommend you to companies who specialize is being guarantors for International Students.

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Posted: Thursday, January 10, 2019

Most examinations (Semester 1) for North East students are scheduled for period of mid January 2019.

There is a saying: ”Don’t stress, do your best, forget the rest!” An exam is not only a test of your academic knowledge, it is a test of your calmness, stability and courage. Failure & success are the two sides of the same coin. So don’t get nervous. We know you can do well in the exam. Good luck from Graysons Properties team!

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Posted: Thursday, January 10, 2019

If you and group of your friends are looking for student accommodation in the heart of Jesmond in Newcastle upon Tyne, Graysons Properties are proud to offer our brand new shared apartments. Each beautifully furnished flat has shared bathrooms and communal lounge/kitchens where you can catch up with friends at the end of your day.

Sharing rented accommodation with friends, fellow students is a good way to keep your rent and other bills down.

If you are not part of a group – DON’T WORRY!! At Graysons Properties we are still able to accommodate you in one of our flat shares.

Available from £105.00 pppw (utility bills included*), please click any link below to see full details for each property:

• City View Jesmond, Flat 2 Block A (8 bedroom apartment)
• City View Jesmond, Flat 3 Block A (7 bedroom apartment)
• City View Jesmond, Flat 4 Block A (8 bedroom apartment)
• City View Jesmond, Flat 5 Block A (7 bedroom apartment)
• City View Jesmond, Flat 6 Block A (7 bedroom apartment)
• City View Jesmond, Flat 7 Block A (8 bedroom apartment)

The property is conveniently located within 14 mins walk to Newcastle University and 10 mins away from the Library, so you are never far away from a study space. The property is close to Jesmond Metro Station, which will take you into the city in minutes.

The accommodation is close to Osbourne Road which is a popular student hotspot due to the incredible range of cafes and places to eat, relax and socialise with friends!

If you ever feel like you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city centre life, Jesmond Dene Park is very close to the property and is perfect for exercise, picnics and relaxing walks.

If you are interested in viewing one of our accommodations then please call the office on 0191 2600680 or email on enquiries@graysonsproperties.co.uk

Would you like to be among the first to get the latest student rooms/flats update? Please, like our Facebook page: facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/

Are you are a current tenant in City View Jesmond? It pays to stay with us next year.

Like things as they are? Tell us and register a room just like your current one
If you fancy a different room next year, search for other accommodation available at our website.

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Posted: Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Graysons Properties would like to send our warmest wishes to all of our students for the festive season – we wish you love, peace and happiness for 2019!

Good luck to all of our students for their January examinations – we know you’ll do absolutely great!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of the Graysons Properties Team!!

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Posted: Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Congratulations to our FREE RENT FOR ONE YEAR WINNER – Bethany Carruthers!

We’re sure that the free rent for one year was a nice surprise for you! We hope that you continue to enjoy your stay at City View Jesmond and we would like to wish you all the best for 2019!

Thank you to everyone who entered the competition and helped to make it a success! Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram pages, as our next contest is coming soon!

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Posted: Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Christmas & New Year’s Day opening times announcement, for Sunderland & Newcastle offices:

Monday 24th December 2018: 09:00-12:00
Tuesday 25th December 2018: CLOSED
Wednesday 26th December 2018: CLOSED
Thursday 27th December 2018: CLOSED
Friday 29th December 2018: CLOSED
Saturday 30th December 2018: CLOSED
Monday 31st December 2018: CLOSED
Tuesday 1st December 2018: CLOSED
Wednesday 2nd January 2019: 09:00-17:00 [normal office hours resume]

Have a wonderful time!
Graysons Properties Team

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Posted: Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Dear Students

In recent weeks you have advised us that you have been experiencing issues in relation to the address of City View Jesmond in Newcastle upon Tyne. The problems concerned both courier/mail shipments and map locations on Google Maps and Apple Maps.

We provide you with detailed information below so that you can update and check your information.

City View Jesmond was previously known as Easton Halls; the previous address was Easton Halls, Eskdale Terrace, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4DY.

Following refurbishment, the name and post codes were changed and the postal code for Building A and Building B was separated. Currently, the addresses currently registered with Royal Mail are as follows:

• Block A, City View Jesmond, Eskdale Terrace, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4DD
• Block B, City View Jesmond, Eskdale Terrace, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4DF

The above postcodes and addresses do not yet work correctly on Google and Apple maps, although Graysons Properties is working intensively on speeding up this process.

If you (or the courier) can not find City View Jesmond in the GPS navigation or on a Google or Apple map, please enter the old postcode: NE2 4DY, which still works and indicates the right place.

We apologize for the inconvenience and we hope that in the near future the fault with the address will be quickly repaired.

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Posted: Thursday, September 20, 2018

We remind all students who have not heard about our fantastic offer yet:

*FREE RENT FOR 1 YEAR

How to enter?

STEP 1 – Like our Facebok page ‘Graysons Properties‘ or our Instagram ‘GraysonsProperties‘ page

STEP 2 – Share or Repost our competition post

STEP 3 – Tag a friend in the comments

STEP 4 – Book a viewing for one of our properties and become a tenant of ours for 2018/19

*Candidates must be tenant of Graysons Properties at the time of the draw. Only applies to Student Lets. Your chance to win a year free rent through Graysons Properties, competition applies to both Sunderland & Newcastle. All above steps must be completed to enter. One tenant to receive free rent for the full academic year of 2018-19. Competition will be drawn live on the 1^st October 2018 via a live video on the Graysons Properties Facebook page. Terms and Conditions apply.

For more details call us 0191 260 0680 or email us enquiries@graysonsproperties.co.uk

Terms & Conditions: https://www.graysonsproperties.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/

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Posted: Thursday, August 16, 2018

We have 16th of August 2018 Today, so A-LEVEL results are out! All students will find out if they have been accepted to their chosen university.

Graysons Properties would like to congratulate all students on their individual results and we wish them every success in their academic future.

How are your results? Are you going to study in Sunderland or in Newcastle?

Any student, who signs up for our properties and who is going into their first year at university pays no admin fees if signs by the end of this week.

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Posted: Wednesday, August 1, 2018

We are aware that as students you are currently looking for your student flats for your next Academic year. The Graysons Properties team would like to help you with some useful tips, which you can refer to when looking for your home for next year.

It is very important to be aware that it is not just the weekly price that you pay for your student accommodation that matters! Your desired student accommodation not only needs to be competitively priced but also deliver good standards of living.

At Graysons Properties we believe in providing all our tenants with excellent properties at competitive prices.

It’s worth taking your time to search the property and make sure everything is at a high standard. You might feel pressure to secure a house; but it pays off to be thorough when viewing the property.
Here is a list of essential questions worth asking when visiting a student property.

Safety and Security Features

1. Does the property meet the desired Fire Safety Standards? Is there a Mains Linked Fire Alarm, Fire Extinguishers and Blankets? Does the Landlord possess a Fire Safety Certificate?
2. Does the property gas boiler required a gas safety record which has been carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer? Check that the landlord possesses one.
3. Properties with gas boilers require carbon monoxide detectors. Check that they are present and work?
4. Is there a burglar alarm for the property? Is there any other forms of security in the property such as CCTV camera?
5. Are there any signs of exposed electrical wiring such as loose wires, faulty plugs or lights?
6. Are there suitable locks on the exterior doors of the property? What sort of lock system does the property and bedroom have? Master lock systems have restricted keys which are more secure as they can not be copied.
7. Where do you report a emergency? Does the landlord have an emergency line?
8. How do you report maintenance issues?

Internal Features

1. Are there signs of mould or damp?
2. Is the property properly insulated? (Double glazing)
3. Are there locks on the bedroom doors?
4. Do the kitchen appliances and white goods work properly? (Fridges, Washing Machine)
5. Is there any mould around the windows?

Graysons Properties student accommodation (Sunderland & Newcastle)

If you become a tenant of Graysons Properties you can be reassured that we provide accommodation with our Tenant Safety and Comfort in mind. All our Properties:

1. Meet Fire Safety and Electrical Safety Regulations. The Fire safety equipment is regularly maintained and tested. All certificates are available on Request. All our Properties have had Fire Risk Assessments undertaken
2. All our properties with Gas Boilers have up to date CP12 and working Carbon Monoxide detectors
3. All properties have double glazing
4. For your security we have a combination of burglar alarms and CCTV cameras. We provide a 24/7 Emergency line for all our tenants
5. All our properties either have master keys or key card systems. This means that no keys to our properties can be copied without our authorisation
6. We have our very own dedicated property App for all our properties where all our tenants can report any issues they are experiencing
7. All our properties have yearly maintenance plans to ensure that the standards of our properties remain amongst some of the best in the lettings industry

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Posted: Monday, July 16, 2018

Sunderland is a fantastic place, not only for studying, but also to live in. One of the many interesting events Sunderland had to offer this year was The Tall Ships Races – Sunderland 2018, which ended last weekend. This proved a very popular event, over a million guests visited Sunderland in these last few days to see the rally of some of the most beautiful sailing ships in the world. Please view our special photo report from Grayson’s Properties. We invite students intending to study in Sunderland next year to call us for any advice or inquiries you may have.

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Posted: Monday, July 9, 2018

Graysons Properties would like to invite all of you (not just students) to a fantastic family event – The Tall Ships Races Sunderland 2018. This week 55 tall ships from around the world will come to Sunderland and first vessels will arrive on Tuesday, making spectacular viewing from the seafront.

Bellow the official video and link to the website, with dates, maps and lots of useful informations.

www.tallshipssunderland.com

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Posted: Wednesday, April 4, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q) by Students

Read the answers to the most common questions we are asked about our student accommodation. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any other questions about student accommodation, or if you need support or advice.

1. I am not part of a group can I still rent your property?
Yes you can. Renting with Graysons Properties you do not need to be part of a group of friends. We have individual and couple studios available and we can also accommodate you in a shared flat. Most of our student flats have double en-suite bedrooms.

2. How long is the contract?
At Graysons Properties our standard student contracts are 51 weeks in Sunderland and 52 weeks in Newcastle. However, we can offer terms to suit your needs and this is considered on a individual basis.

3. I have asked for a shorter contract and why am I having to pay a higher weekly rent?
The headline rent for our student flats and houses is calculated based on a 51 contract in Sunderland and a 52 week contract in Newcastle. We can offer some discounts on total rent for shorter contracts however the savings will primarily represent potential savings in utility bills for the period you are not in the property. The same price as the headline rental amounts can not be offered for shorter contracts because there are certain expenses for the landlord continues to incur regardless of the contract length. Such additional expenses for the landlord includes – Council Tax and Management fees.

4. What are the fees?
All student tenants pay a Reservation Fee of £150 inc VAT. The fee is non-refundable and covers the cost of tenancy set-up, reference and guarantor checks.

5. What is a guarantor?
If a tenant is not fully approved by the referencing process, they can ask a guarantor to support them. A guarantor (usually a parent or guardian) will agree to take joint responsibility for the rent for the property if the tenant fails to. Guarantors are required to pay any rent arrears (if the tenant does not pay) and for any damages. If you can provide a guarantor then you are not required to pay a deposit.

6. Who is a suitable guarantor?
A guarantor needs to go through the same referencing process as a tenant. The normal requirement is that they are employed and a UK resident, with sufficient earnings to cover the tenant’s rental commitment. To be a guarantor, your monthly net income needs to be three times the monthly rent of the tenant. So, if the rent is £300 per calendar month, you’d need to earn £900 a month. Bad credit records or temporary employment, unfortunately, rule you out as a guarantor. At Graysons Properties we can accept UK based home owners as guarantors.

7. Why do I need to be referenced?
The landlord needs to be sure that that their tenant won’t have any problems paying the rent on a monthly basis and that the tenant will take good care of their property.

8. What does referencing involve?
Referencing is nothing to worry about. Tenants applying to rent need to give details of their employer and income, their previous address, and some bank account details. These will be checked to ensure they are able to commit to monthly rental payments.

9. What if there are problems with my referencing?
In some circumstances, a tenant may not be approved immediately via referencing. Obvious examples are students without a regular income, or someone leaving their family home for the first time with no renting history. This is not uncommon, and there are still options for tenants in this position. They could pay the rent for the full term up front, pay a deposit or seek out a guarantor.

10. Do your rents include all the bills?
Most of our student properties are provided on a fully inclusive basis. This means that your weekly rent will include – Gas, Electric, Water rates, Broadband, a Sky Package (only on some properties), Routine Cleaning, and a TV license for Communal areas. It is your responsibility to ensure that as a student you are exempt from council tax. If you are not exempt from the council tax then you will be required to cover the full council tax payments for your stay. If you are unable to afford the council tax payment, Graysons Properties can cover the cost for you and add this onto your weekly rent (for students only).

11. Why do I have to pay a deposit?
The landlord trusts the tenant to keep the property in a good condition and in good order. The deposit is held to ensure that any damages (over and above fair wear and tear) can be corrected at the end of the tenancy.

12. When do I pay the deposit?
At Graysons Properties we would request a property holding fee equivalent to your tenancy deposit at the time of signing your contract. This will then be converted into a property deposit when you move in. At Graysons Properties our standard deposit for students is £350. If you have a suitable guarantor there will be no deposit to pay.

13. What will happen to my deposit?
Landlords and letting agents are required to register your deposit with an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme. Graysons Properties landlords register their deposits with a scheme such as TDS. The deposit is then held by the landlord. You should receive details of the scheme, explaining where the deposit is held. The certificate is uploaded onto the Graysons App which you will have access to when you become a tenant of ours.

14. When can I get my deposit back?
The landlord should pay your deposit back within 10 days of your request for the deposit to be returned. A tenant cannot request the return of their deposit before the tenancy ends.

15. What if I Accidentally cause damage to the property?
Don’t worry – accidents happen. Tell whoever is responsible for the property maintenance (either the landlord or letting agent) as soon as possible. You should upload the information on the Graysons App. You will be expected to cover the cost of putting it right. Don’t try to ignore or hide damage because it could get worse, and it will only come out of your deposit at the end of the tenancy. If damage occurs throughout the tenancy, at Graysons Properties, we will raise invoices immediately so that you are fully aware of what will be deducted from your deposit on move out. If you have no deposit then you will be required to pay for the damages.

16. What is a routine inspection visit?
Your landlord or letting agent will regularly schedule visits to the property. They want to make sure that the property is being looked after and maintained in a good condition, and they’ll be looking for any maintenance issues. For student properties we will undertake inspections every 6 weeks. This may be more frequent if we have any concerns.

17. When can the landlord enter my property?
A landlord has to give the tenant notice before entering the property, unless it’s an emergency. We will provide notifications via our App when access is required in the property.

18. What is a tenancy agreement?
A tenancy agreement is a contract signed by both the tenant and the landlord. It outlines all the rules to which both parties must comply.

19. What happens if I want to end my tenancy early?
You are contractually liable for the whole fixed term of the tenancy. However if your Landlord grants you permission to leave early based on the understanding that a new tenant would have to be found to replace you; you would be liable for the Agents re-marketing costs and all terms within your tenancy, including the rent until a new tenancy has been granted.

20. I don’t want to move into the property, can I cancel?
If you have signed a tenancy agreement, you are legally bound by it. However, there are some options: you might be able to find another tenant. Until you have found a replacement you are responsible for the rent payments. Please be absolutely sure you want to rent the property before you sign the tenancy agreement to avoid any difficulties. At Graysons Properties all our Tenants sign Individual Contracts, which means that you are only responsible for your own rent and not your housemates. Some landlords will sign Joint and Several tenancy agreements, which means that all tenants are responsible for the total rent for the property.

21. How do I pay my rent?
Your rent payments are always paid in advance on a fixed day each month, usually the same day your tenancy started.
Most tenants pay rent by monthly standing order. A standing order is simply a written instruction from you to your bank, stating how much, how often and for how long a certain amount of money needs to be paid from your bank to our bank or the landlord’s account. It is your responsibility to ensure the standing order is set up. Just because you have a standing order in place it doesn’t automatically mean that the money arrives on time.

22. What if I can’t pay my rent?
It is always your responsibility to pay the rent, but circumstances change. What happens if you become unemployed or are unable to work due to sickness? The most important thing is not to let arrears pile up until they’re unmanageable. Speak to your landlord or letting agent and see if you can reschedule your payments.

23. How does being a international student affect my rent payments?
If you cannot provide a UK based guarantor, you must pay rent in advance. At Graysons Properties we require you to pay the total rent over 3 payments. First instalment is due 2 months before move in, Second instalment is at Christmas and third instalment is on the 1st March.

24. Do I have to pay council tax?
Full time students are exempt from council tax. You will need to provide proof that you’re in full-time education, which you can usually get from your University administration departments. If you are working check with Newcastle and Sunderland City Council to see if you qualify for any exemptions or reductions. If is your responsibly to inform the council of your tenancy.

25. Can I have a pet?
First and foremost you must seek permission from the Landlord/Agent before allowing a pet on the premises. If permission is granted; you will have to provide details of your pet and sign a pet addendum which stipulates at the end of the tenancy; you must have all furnishings and carpets professionally cleaned and fumigated by a professional approved company. Any loss or damage occurred during the tenancy due to any pet will be the responsibility of the tenant to rectify accordingly.

26. Is the landlord responsible for supplying a vacuum cleaner? No the Landlord is not legally obliged to provide a vacuum cleaner. However most of our student houses receive complimentary cleaning. You are expected to keep the property clean in between the complimentary cleaning.

27. What is involved in the Check-In? On move in Gaysons Properties undertakes a Inventory. This is a report which highlights the current condition of your property. This is the process whereby the tenants are shown around the property to check that the observations recorded in the property inventory match the property’s actual condition. It provides an opportunity for the tenants to note any discrepancies in the report, allowing them to request changes. The tenants should sign and date the document to confirm they’ve checked the property inventory and agree that it’s a true record of the property’s condition as at the beginning of the tenancy. Graysons Properties provides their tenants with up to 14 days to make any amendments to the inventory.

28. What happens on a Check out and why is it important?
Similar to a check in, only this happens at the end of the tenancy. When the new observations have been recorded, they will be compared with the content in the original property inventory. This helps establish whether any damages or alterations have been caused by the tenants, and whose responsibility it is to rectify them. The report should also be signed and dated by the tenants. A Check out provides the opportunity for the tenant to try and protect their deposit return.

29. If I leave before my housemate, am I still responsible for the state of the property when the tenancy ends?
No. With Graysons Properties you are signed on individual tenancies which means that when you have undertaken a check out you are no longer responsible for the state of the property even if your friends still remain in the property. If you are in joint and several tenancies, it means you are all responsible for the state and condition of the property when you leave.

30. Does the landlord supply Kettle, Microwave and toaster?
No. Graysons Properties do not provide these items. The main reason for this is for hygiene purposes.

31. Are we responsible for changing batteries in smoke alarms?
No. Report any issues on the Graysons App and one of our maintenance team will attend to change the batteries.

32. Are we responsible for changing light bulbs?
If you reside in a property where your bills are included then the landlord will arrange for changing the bulbs. If your rent is exclusive of bills then we would recommend that you change the bulbs, however, if you do not feel confident then please report it on the Graysons App. The maintenance team will arrange to change the bulb on a routine visit. On occasions there may be a charge for this but as long as there is a replacement bulb present and it is changed on a routine visit then we do not charge for this service.

33. Will our bedroom doors have locks?
All our bedrooms have their own locks. Either with master key or key cards.

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Posted: Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Congratulations Amiee Kealey, the winner of the Amazon Alexa Prize in our Graysons Properties contest through Sunderland University Housing Fair! Thanks to everyone who participated and helped make this contest a success! Stay tuned to our Facebook pages, as our next contest is coming soon!

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Posted: Friday, February 2, 2018

The day of love is just around the corner and we’re getting in the mood. Grayson Properties, student accommodation specialist in Sunderland and Newcastle for that special day is offering TWO fabulous £25 Restaurant Choice Gift Cards prizes via our Facebook competition.

To make sure you’re in the running to win this lovely prize, just follow these simple steps:

1st Prize – £25 prepaid Restaurant Choice Gift Card*
It’s easy! Just like the Grayson Properties Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/
From those we will draw one lucky person.

2nd Prize – £25 prepaid Restaurant Choice Gift Card*
It’s a bit more difficult but also easy! You need to like this post about our Valentine’s Day prize https://www.facebook.com/GraysonsPropertiesTeam/posts/529312504121737 AND you have to write such comment: #GraysonsProperties
From that group we will draw another lucky winner.

The competition is for everyone. You have got two chances to win 2 prizes! The draw will be on 11th of February at 6pm and the results will be published on our Facebook page.
The card has to be collected from our Sunderland office. Address and contact details can be found on the link attached below: https://www.graysonsproperties.co.uk/contact-us/

*About the card:
This is a plastic Restaurant Choice Gift Card preloaded with value of £25
Can be used for full or part payment of goods
Accepted in thousands of restaurants across the UK including the following:
Nando’s, PizzaExpress, Yo!Sushi, Cafe Rouge, Pizza Hut, Ask Italian, Zizzi, Jamie’s Italian and The Real Greek
If the full cash value of the card is not spent in a single transaction then the remaining balance can be used in another transaction
View Locations of restaurants that accept Restaurant Choice Gift Cards here: https://www.restaurantchoice.co.uk/restaurants

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Posted: Monday, July 3, 2017

Graysons Properties have just recently extended their property portfolio with the addition of Phoenix House in Sunderland City Centre.

At present, the property has several commercial units on the ground floor with the additional four floors currently redundant office space.

The building will continue to have commercial units on the ground floor, however the upper four floors will be completely redesigned to provide luxury student accommodation with the addition of flats and studio apartments.

The external aspect of the building will become the stylish outer profile which resonates the internal unique contemporary design.

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Posted: Tuesday, November 10, 2015

This particular phrase could actually be the most used phrase of the last year. A remark favoured between students, teenagers, parents and anyone with access to a smartphone.

IT, Business & Marketing students are also tapping in to this valuable resource and there will soon be an APP to suit every business task list.

We hear the term … there’s an APP for that! and so born from an idea from  the Graysons Properties Team, an APP is being developed to assist our successful property empire and will be an asset to our already great service team.

We are delighted to announce that very soon, when one of our tenants asks:

• For a reminder of their Wi-Fi password, they ask
• When is the cleaner due this week?
• How much is my term rent?

We can point to the complementary APP on their device.

To be released around winter time, late 2015 and early 2016, the new Graysons Properties APP will be released to our current tenants first.

Features & Benefits of the Graysons app so far

• An easy form and drop down menu check list to report maintenance issues.
• Property information just a tap away including, Wi-Fi password, Rent payments, safety information and location of the property for the new tenants that are still finding their feet in the area
• An ‘Emergency’ function
• Contact ‘Janitor’ function
• An easy form to update your contact and personal details.
• Special discount offers from local businesses, shops and restaurants specially negotiated for our tenants e.g. Subway Student Savers exclusive to Graysons Properties.
• Event tracker and reminder for appointments and arrangements.
• Its easy to use, interactive & free and keeps you updated without filling up your mailbox

The app will be compatible with Apple and Android phones and tablets.

Follow our Facebook page for more information and updates on everything that’s Graysons!

https://www.facebook.com/graysonsproperties/

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Posted: Thursday, October 1, 2015

Phoenix House planning permission has been approved! Let the hard work commence…
You can keep updated on the progress of Sunderland’s new exquisite student accommodation by regularly checking our blog. Phoenix House will be completed in time for the academic year of 2016 and it’s set to be a busy time with enquiries being made already! Here is a link to a recent article on our development of Phoenix House.

http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/north-east/141018-sunderland-renovation-plans-set-approval?utm_source=northeast_newsletter&utm_medium=property_article&utm_campaign=northeast_news_tracker

As well as Phoenix House we have also been renovating our properties in Newcastle, starting with 35 Glenthorn Road. The property was transformed from what was a dated and rundown interior to a modern and very vibrant feel becoming one of Jesmond’s most attractive Student accommodations.

The refurbishment of our property on Glenthorn Road was quite a lengthy project and required the full assistance of our building and maintenance team, internally the property is unrecognisable.
The building and maintenance team started the project with a full house clearance which involved removing furniture, fixtures and fittings. Once the basic labouring was complete, the project was able to commence. The property was fully rewired and all plumbing systems renewed before all of the internal walls were plastered. All five bedrooms now have fully fitted furniture which consists of a bed, wardrobe, desk and shelving units.
The bathroom was removed from the rear of the property which allowed us the open up the kitchen into a much more spacious area and we were able to incorporate a breakfast bar. The bathroom was then relocated to the second floor of the building and the existing second bathroom received a full makeover which included a new bathroom suite.
The removal of the chimney breast from the lounge has allowed us to open up and consequentially create a lighter and generously sized communal lounge. The installation of a new TV and the introduction of new sofas a welcoming and comfortable area to relax and enjoy the complimentary Sky Tv and Wi Fi.
When the students arrived they could not believe the transition that had taken place and were all in agreement that Graysons Properties had set the new standard for student accommodation in Newcastle .
We would like to thank the building and maintenance team for their hard work and dedication which allowed the project to be completed so efficiently under the close guidance of our Director and interior designer Magdalena.

But don’t just take our word for it! Here are some before pictures, sometimes pictures really do say a thousand words.

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