Looking for a house in Nairobi to settle in while still in campus can be a bit tricky. You have to consider a number of things. For most students, there's the urge to have a roommate with whom you can split the rent and other costs with. This is usually a smart move, as long as the roommate does not negatively influence your study habits, is not engaged in crime, is not a drunkard and does not have other disturbing habits that you cannot put up with.

That aside, here are 7 other things you should consider when house hunting:

1. Water supply

Your new room should have good water supply considering that campus life is generally busy. You'll need to do your laundry on time, shower to keep lethargy away and keep your body hydrated all the time. You can always check this when you move in with your partner. Another thing to consider is how much it'll cost you monthly; as Donald Trump says, a wise investment should be affordable and give you high returns. You should settle for an affordable water supply package that'll allow you to live throughout the month comfortably.

2. Clean toilet

This should be the first thing to consider. If you're living in a place where the toilet is shared then you need to consider how clean it is. If you're lucky enough to book a self contained room, make sure the toilet is scrubbed and clean when you move in. If you're desperate enough you can do the work yourself. Nothing is as demoralizing as a stinking toilet. It'll raise your stress levels unnecessarily.

3. Ample power supply

You'll need your tablet, phone and laptop charged fully all the time. This will allow you to study smoothly; you'll be able to co-ordinate group study sessions with your classmates efficiently. You'll not have your study schedule interrupted by lack of electricity. Note that some rooms may be attractive because of the cheap rent but the power is switched off during the day. You don't need such frustration.

4. Security

This doesn't only mean that the compound has a gate. The people living there should not be idlers; men and women who don't go to work. They'll just clean up your house or organize for a robbery and you'll have to start from zero again.

5. Personality of the caretaker

He should be friendly and willing to help out whenever you're having problems with the water supply, a leaking toilet, a floor that needs repair and more. He shouldn't be only there to collect the rent monthly. Basically, he should facilitate your learning and not take advantage of you in any way.

6. Proximity to school

The place should be ideal; not too far from school. This will help you avoid spending too much on bus fare to and from school. For example, if you're studying at Kenyatta University, Kahawa West would be an advisable place to find a good house. The closer you are to your school, the more convenient your movements will be.

7. Distractions around the area

Don't choose a room near a construction site unless you have your own superpowers of muting the noise. It's advisable to choose somewhere calm, with minimal distractions so that you can study without stress. It'll do good for you, trust me.