How The Home Bridge Works – Simplifying Student Accommodation Search – Connecting International Students with Safe UK Accommodation

How It Works

For Students

Sign Up and Create Your Profile

Visit The HomeBridge website and click "Sign Up."
Complete the registration form with your personal details. If you are under 18, you’ll need to upload a Parental Consent form, which can be downloaded after sign-up.
Verify your email and set up a password to access your student account.
Once registered, fill in your profile details, including preferences for location, budget, and accommodation type.

Browse and Shortlist Properties

Use the search tool to find available properties that match your needs.
Filter properties by location, budget, amenities, and more.
Save your favourite listings to revisit and compare later.

Review Property Details and Reach Out for Support

Review each property’s listing for details on amenities, photos, pricing, and host policies.
Contact The HomeBridge support team if you have questions about a property or need additional information.

Book Your Accommodation

Once you've chosen a property, click "Book Now."
Complete the booking process by confirming details and reviewing any applicable fees.
The HomeBridge platform will secure your booking, and an administration fee will be charged upon confirmation.

Prepare for Your Stay

If needed, request a video tour or a guided property visit with a support team member.
Pay any necessary deposits or fees as per the booking details.
Receive confirmation of your booking and prepare for your move-in date.

Move-In Day and Support

On your scheduled move-in date, arrive at your booked property.
The HomeBridge team may accompany you for a first visit to ensure everything is as expected.
Contact The HomeBridge support team for assistance if you encounter any issues during your stay.

Post-Stay and Review

After your stay, The HomeBridge team will handle the security deposit refund process.
Leave a review for the host and property to help future students with their decisions.
Reach out to support if you need help with any post-stay matters or future bookings.

For Hosts

Sign Up and Set Up Your Profile

Visit The HomeBridge website, select "Host Sign Up," and complete the registration form with your details.
Provide identification and property ownership or management documents for verification.
Once verified, create your host profile, including details about your hosting experience and policies.

List Your Property

Go to "Add Property" in your host dashboard.
Fill out the listing form with property details, location, amenities, and rental terms.
Upload high-quality photos and, if possible, a short video tour to showcase your property.
Set the rental price and any other preferences.

Review and Manage Booking Requests

Receive booking requests from students who are interested in your property.
Review each request, including the student’s profile and intended duration of stay.
Confirm the booking request and finalise any additional details with The HomeBridge support team if needed.

Prepare for the Student's Arrival

Ensure the property is clean, safe, and ready for the student’s arrival.
Meet the student on the move-in day or coordinate with The HomeBridge team for assistance.

Managing the Student's Stay

Maintain a respectful and supportive relationship with your student.
Address any concerns that arise during the student’s stay. If issues persist, contact The HomeBridge support team for guidance.
Avoid cancellations unless absolutely necessary, as frequent cancellations can impact your host status.

Handle Security Deposits and Post-Stay Tasks

After the student’s stay, conduct a property check.
Communicate with The HomeBridge team to manage the security deposit return, deducting any necessary fees for damages or additional cleaning.
Leave a review for the student to help other hosts on the platform.

For Agencies

Register Your Agency

Go to The HomeBridge website and click "Agency Registration."
Complete the registration form with your agency’s information, contact details, and any required business documentation.
Once verified, your agency will gain access to the platform for property and student management.

Set Up Your Dashboard

Log in to your agency dashboard, where you can manage listings, bookings, and student enrollments.
Familiarize yourself with the dashboard’s features for efficient property management and student oversight.

List Properties on Behalf of Your Agency

Go to "Add Property" and provide details such as location, amenities, photos, and rental terms.
Add high-quality images and videos for each property to attract student interest.
Review each listing to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Enroll Students for Accommodation

In the "Student Enrollment" section, enter details for each student associated with your agency.
Manage their bookings by reviewing preferences, confirming property availability, and overseeing communication through The HomeBridge support team if necessary.

Manage Bookings and Payments

Use the agency dashboard to monitor active and upcoming bookings.
Payments will be processed through The HomeBridge platform, with funds transferred to your agency account after each student’s check-in.
Review and pay any applicable service fees for confirmed bookings.

Handle Cancellations and Issues

If a student or property requires cancellation, follow The HomeBridge cancellation policy outlined in the Terms and Conditions.
Notify The HomeBridge support team if there are any issues with students during their stay or if frequent cancellations occur.
Maintain a low cancellation rate to keep your agency’s standing in good standing on the platform.

Post-Stay and Security Deposits

Ensure the property is inspected after a student’s stay to confirm no damages.
The security deposit will be handled through The HomeBridge platform, with deductions applied as necessary.
Leave a review for students to assist future hosts and agencies with placement decisions.

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Introduction

Welcome to The HomeBridge Platform. These Terms and Conditions outline the rules and regulations for agencies using our platform. By registering and accessing this platform, you accept these terms in full. If you disagree with any part, please do not proceed with registration.

Eligibility

Agency Requirements

Agencies must be registered businesses with valid documentation, including proof of business registration, address, and contact information.

Verification

Agencies must submit verification documents, such as business registration certificates and proof of address. The HomeBridge reserves the right to verify the provided information and conduct background checks.

Account Registration and Responsibilities

Account Creation

Agencies must provide accurate and complete information during registration and promptly update their information if any changes occur.

Account Security

Agencies are responsible for securing account credentials and must notify The HomeBridge of any unauthorized access. The platform is not liable for losses resulting from an agency's failure to maintain security.

Account Usage

Accounts must be used only by authorized representatives of the agency. Unauthorized sharing or illegal use is prohibited.

Termination

The HomeBridge may suspend or terminate accounts that violate terms or engage in harmful activities. Agencies may also terminate their accounts by contacting The HomeBridge support team, remaining liable for outstanding obligations.

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

Property Listings and Management

Accurate Listings

Agencies must ensure that property listings are accurate, up-to-date, and complete, including descriptions, photos, amenities, and availability. Any changes to property details must be updated promptly.

Verification of Listings

The HomeBridge may verify listings through documentation requests or on-site visits.

Maintenance, Standards, and Responsibilities

Property Standards: Agencies are responsible for ensuring that listed properties are clean, habitable, and match the descriptions provided, including all stated amenities and standards. Regular inspections and timely maintenance are required.

Accuracy of Listings: Agencies must verify that all property details are accurate. Any discrepancies between the listing and actual property condition are the agency’s responsibility to resolve with the host and student.

Issue Resolution: Agencies are responsible for managing all booking-related issues or disputes between hosts and students. If a platform-related issue arises, agencies must contact The HomeBridge support team for assistance.

Student Document Verification: Agencies are responsible for ensuring that all student documents are accurately uploaded to the platform. The HomeBridge team will conduct a final review, but the initial verification responsibility lies with the agency.

Prohibition of Private Deals: Private deals that bypass The HomeBridge Platform are strictly prohibited. Agencies found engaging in such practices will face immediate termination and legal action. By agreeing to these Terms and Conditions, the agency acknowledges this policy as legally binding.

Cancellation and Refund Policy Compliance: Agencies must adhere to The HomeBridge platform’s cancellation and refund policies. The same cancellation terms apply to students or properties listed through an agency as outlined in the platform policies.

Booking and Payment Terms

Booking Process

Agencies must respond promptly to booking requests. Once confirmed, agencies are obligated to honour the reservation.

Payment Collection

The HomeBridge collects payments on behalf of agencies. Agencies must ensure that their payment details are accurate and up-to-date to receive disbursements.

Security Deposits

Agencies may require a security deposit from students, held by The HomeBridge and refunded post-stay if there are no damages or breaches of the rental agreement.

Cancellations and Refunds

Cancellation by Agencies

Agencies must notify The HomeBridge and the student as soon as possible if a cancellation is necessary. Frequent cancellations may lead to penalties or account suspension.

Refund Conditions

Refunds are provided if the property is misrepresented or uninhabitable. Agencies must supply photographic evidence and detailed descriptions of any discrepancies.

Communication and Conduct

Respectful Communication

Agencies must engage in courteous, respectful communication with students and The HomeBridge support team. Discriminatory, abusive, or offensive behaviour is prohibited.

Prohibited Conduct

Harassment, discrimination, fraud, and illegal transactions are prohibited. Violations may result in account suspension, termination, or legal action.

Dispute Resolution

Initial Communication

Agencies should attempt to resolve disputes directly with students through open, respectful communication.

Support Assistance

If a dispute remains unresolved, agencies may contact The HomeBridge support team for guidance.

Mediation and Arbitration

The HomeBridge may provide mediation services. Unresolved disputes may escalate to binding arbitration, and agencies agree to waive participation in class actions or collective legal proceedings.

Commission Structure

Commission Rates

The HomeBridge charges a commission on each booking, with rates varying based on booking details. See Commission table at the end of this agreement.

Commission for Hosts and Agencies

Hosts can see whether a student inquiry is independent or through an agency. Commission rates are higher if students book through agencies, which aids hosts in managing their listings.

Legal Compliance and Intellectual Property

Compliance with Laws

Agencies must comply with all relevant laws, including housing, privacy, and consumer protection regulations.

Intellectual Property

The HomeBridge retains intellectual property rights to platform content. Unauthorized use of content may result in legal action.

Reporting Infringements

Agencies can report intellectual property infringements to The HomeBridge support team for investigation and appropriate action.

Changes to Terms

Modification of Terms

The HomeBridge reserves the right to modify these terms. Agencies will be notified of any changes. Continued use of the platform constitutes acceptance of updated terms.

Conclusion

By using The HomeBridge Platform, agencies agree to comply with these terms and conditions. For questions or assistance, please contact our support team.

Disclaimer

The HomeBridge Platform serves as a digital marketplace connecting agencies, hosts, and students. While The HomeBridge strives to maintain a reliable platform, it does not guarantee rental occupancy, income, or property conditions. Agencies are responsible for verifying property standards, managing listings, and addressing issues between hosts and students. The HomeBridge is not liable for disputes, damages, or losses that may result from agency operations.

By using The HomeBridge Platform, agencies acknowledge and accept that The HomeBridge is not liable for individual agency actions, property conditions, or representations. This document serves as a legally binding agreement, and agencies agree to abide by all platform policies and instructions.

Commission Structure for Agencies

This commission structure ensures that agencies and The HomeBridge platform both profit from bookings.

Duration of Stay	Total Commission	Platform Share	Agency Share	Example Rent (£600)	Platform Earnings	Agency Earnings (P/M)
1 Month	18%	9%	9%	£600	£54	£54
1-3 Months	17%	8%	9%	£600	£48	£54
3-6 Months	16%	8%	8%	£600	£48	£48
6-9 Months	15%	7%	8%	£600	£42	£48
9-12 Months	14%	7%	7%	£600	£42	£42

Commission Rates for Enrolling Students

Duration of Stay	Total Commission	Platform Share	Agency Share	Example Rent (£600)	Platform Earnings	Agency Earnings (P/M)
1 Month	16%	8%	8%	£600	£48	£48
1-3 Months	15%	7%	8%	£600	£42	£48
3-6 Months	14%	7%	7%	£600	£42	£42
6-9 Months	13%	6%	7%	£600	£36	£42
9-12 Months	12%	6%	6%	£600	£36	£36

Combined Commission Rates for Listing and Enrolling

Duration of Stay	Total Commission	Platform Share	Agency Share	Example Rent (£600)	Platform Earnings	Agency Earnings (P/M)
1 Month	18%	8%	10%	£600	£48	£60
1-3 Months	17%	7%	10%	£600	£42	£60
3-6 Months	16%	6%	10%	£600	£36	£60
6-9 Months	15%	5%	10%	£600	£30	£60
9-12 Months	14%	5%	9%	£600	£30	£54

Introduction

Welcome to The HomeBridge Platform. These Terms and Conditions outline the rules for hosts using our platform. By registering and accessing this platform, you accept these terms in full. If you disagree with any part, please do not proceed with registration.

Eligibility

Hosts must be at least 18 years old.
Accurate information and proof of property ownership or rental permission are required during registration.
Verification documents include proof of identity, address, and property ownership.

Account Registration and Responsibilities

Provide accurate information during registration, including personal and property details.
Update your information promptly if there are changes to maintain account accuracy.
Maintain confidentiality of your account credentials. Notify The HomeBridge immediately of any unauthorized account access.
Only the registered host may use the account. Account sharing is prohibited. The platform must not be used for illegal or unauthorized purposes.
The HomeBridge reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms or are deemed harmful to the platform or users.
Hosts may terminate their account by contacting The HomeBridge support team. Outstanding obligations or liabilities remain the host’s responsibility.

Property Listings

Listings must be accurate, with truthful descriptions, photos, and amenity details. Promptly update any property changes.
The HomeBridge may verify listings through document requests or on-site visits with the student or without an appointment.
Properties must be maintained in a clean and habitable condition, including regular cleaning and timely attention to maintenance issues.

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

Booking and Payment Terms

Respond promptly to booking requests. Once confirmed, hosts are obligated to honour the booking.
Payments from students are collected by The HomeBridge and disbursed to hosts. Ensure payment details are accurate and up to date.
Hosts may request a security deposit, held by The HomeBridge and refunded at the end of the stay, provided there are no damages or breaches of the rental agreement.

Cancellations and Refunds

Hosts must notify The HomeBridge and the student as soon as possible if a cancellation is necessary. Host cancellations will result in a mark on the host’s profile:
- 14+ Days Before Move-In: Yellow mark. Three yellow marks restrict the listing for 1 month.
- 7-13 Days Before Move-In: Orange mark. Three orange marks restrict the listing for 2 months.
- 2-6 Days Before Move-In: Red mark. Three red marks restrict the account for 2 months.
Hosts are required to provide a valid reason for each cancellation. Failure to do so may result in permanent restrictions on listing properties under the host’s account.
If the property is not as described or is uninhabitable, students may request a refund. Hosts must provide detailed documentation if disputes arise.

Communication and Conduct

Hosts must engage respectfully with students and The HomeBridge support team. Discriminatory, abusive, or offensive language or behaviour is prohibited.
Harassment, discrimination, fraudulent activities, and illegal transactions are strictly prohibited. Violation may result in suspension or termination and legal action and legal support for the student.

Dispute Resolution

Hosts should attempt to resolve disputes directly with the student through respectful communication.
If unresolved, hosts may contact The HomeBridge support team for assistance. Mediation or arbitration may be required for certain disputes.

Commission Structure

The HomeBridge charges a commission on each booking. Commission rates vary based on booking details. Please refer to the end of this document for more information.
Hosts earn a “Green Point” for each successful booking. After three Green Points, the fourth booking will be commission-free for the first month. Points reset after each commission-free booking.

Privacy and Data Security

The HomeBridge collects data to facilitate bookings and payments. Data may be shared with third parties (e.g., payment processors) as necessary.
The platform implements security measures to protect user data. Hosts are responsible for maintaining their account credentials’ security.

Legal Compliance and Intellectual Property

Hosts must comply with applicable laws and regulations, including housing and privacy laws.
The HomeBridge and its licensors retain intellectual property rights to all platform content. Unauthorized use of content is prohibited.
By using The HomeBridge Platform, you agree that all transactions and bookings must be processed through the platform. Keeping all deals within the platform is essential to ensure transparency, fairness, and security for both parties. The platform provides support, mediates disputes, and helps maintain a reliable, trustworthy environment for all users.
Any attempt to bypass the platform by arranging private deals with students will be considered a violation of these Terms and Conditions. Such actions may result in immediate account suspension, termination, and potential legal action. This agreement serves as a legally binding contract, and any breach of this clause may lead to formal legal proceedings.

Changes to Terms

The HomeBridge may update these terms. Continued use of the platform after updates constitutes acceptance of new terms.

Disclaimer

The HomeBridge Platform acts as a facilitator, connecting property hosts with students seeking accommodations. While The HomeBridge strives to maintain a reliable and supportive platform, it does not guarantee occupancy, rental income, or uninterrupted service. Hosts are responsible for the accuracy of their listings, including descriptions, photos, and property details, and are solely liable for ensuring the property is habitable and in compliance with all applicable regulations and standards.

The HomeBridge is not liable for disputes, damages, or losses that may occur between hosts and students. We strongly encourage hosts to review student profiles, follow proper verification processes, and adhere to platform guidelines to ensure a positive rental experience. By listing your property on The HomeBridge Platform, you acknowledge that you understand and accept these terms and assume full responsibility for your interactions with students.

By using The HomeBridge Platform, you agree to these terms and recognize that The HomeBridge is not responsible for individual host actions or representations.

Commission Structure for The HomeBridge Platform

Commission Rates by Duration of Stay (From Host to the platform)

Duration of Stay	Commission Rate (%)	Example Monthly Rent (£600)	Commission Amount per Month	Total Commission for Duration
1 Month	16%	£600	£96	£96
1-3 Months	15%	£600	£90	£270 (for 3 months)
3-6 Months	14%	£600	£84	£504 (for 6 months)
6-9 Months	13%	£600	£78	£702 (for 9 months)
9-12 Months	12%	£600	£72	£864 (for 12 months)

Loyalty Incentive for Hosts

Number of Successful Bookings	Commission Reduction (%)	New Commission Rate (%)	Example Monthly Rent (£600)	Commission Amount per Month	Total Commission for Duration
6+ Bookings	-1%	15% (for 1 month stay)	£600	£90	£90
		14% (for 1-3 months)	£600	£84	£252 (for 3 months)
		13% (for 3-6 months)	£600	£78	£468 (for 6 months)
		12% (for 6-9 months)	£600	£72	£648 (for 9 months)
		11% (for 9-12 months)	£600	£66	£792 (for 12 months)