It’s easier than many landlords might think to keep student tenants happy, as having big windows, shoe racks and storage is their main priority, according to Simon Thompson, co-founder and director of Accommodation for Students (AFS), who have been running focus groups with students to find out exactly what they want from their accommodation.

Many students starting university this September have been hit-hard with the introduction of higher tuition fees, tougher A-level standards and increased accommodation costs.

Mr Thompson, who started AFS twelve years ago when he was at university said: “Students have got it tough at the moment and the aim of these focus groups is to try and help improve one important element of university; their accommodation.”

In establishing the ideal student property, the team at AFS encouraged their focus group candidates to outline their ideal accommodation and listed below are the ‘top tips’ to keep a student tenant happy:

Students don’t expect to get much space for their money, particularly in London, but top of their list was having big windows and natural daylight.

Storage space: Students complain that they can never have enough! If rooms don’t allow, an extra freestanding wardrobe on a landing would be better than nothing.

Shoe racks: If you want to keep the girls happy, place shoe racks in the rooms for them!

Students like the idea of having joint study rooms within properties where they can study together rather than being isolated in their own rooms.

Plug points: Students now come equipped with a multitude of electronic gadgets so you can never have enough.

Kitchen space or communal areas: Students are spending more time in their accommodation to save money. This means that communal areas such as kitchens or living rooms with tables and chairs where students can sit together are increasingly important.

Students also favour open plan kitchen/living areas.

Bathrooms: The more the better! Students all tend to get ready at the same time so if your property has the space and opportunity to provide either en-suite bathrooms or an additional shared bathroom, this will be popular with students. They are also prepared to pay more for the privilege.

Lastly, if you want to really impress your tenants, take them for a beer! AFS say this was widely regarded as the best way to develop a good, open relationship with student tenants.