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If you've ever lived in a student house, you're probably familiar with the grimy kitchens, mismatched furniture, and walls adorned with blue tack stains from long-forgotten posters.
But one man's decision to transform a student property into a luxurious, high-spec home has left TikTok users scratching their heads - and questioning the logic behind such an extravagant renovation.
James Coupland, a property developer known as @jamesproperty_ on TikTok, shared his 'refurb project' aimed at university students - showcasing a home that looks more like a modern city apartment than typically weathered student housing.
With features like sleek strip lighting along the stairs, chic herringbone flooring, and stylish artwork on the walls, the property has taken student living to a whole new level thanks to the York-based investor's efforts.
In a video revealing the final touches, Coupland explained that he even moved into the property temporarily to oversee the finishing details.
James Coupland, a property developer known as @jamesproperty_ on TikTok, shared his 'refurb project' aimed at university students
The result showcases a home that looks more like a modern city apartment than typically weathered student housing
Documenting his trip to a local Dunelm store, Coupland selected a new cream sofa - worth £550 - and neutral-toned bedding, cushions and throws, as well as lamps and stylish desks, to enhance the home.
Following five days of renovations, the property developer even admitted the plush interior of the property was 'better' than his own home.
His efforts, he said, were part of a strategy to boost tenant interest and rental income.
Referring to the effectiveness of 'staged' photographs accompanying a property listing, he said: 'Staging increases tenancy viewings. Your listing can help you achieve higher rents.'
'Staging the property can increase tenant viewings by 20 per cent, help achieve up to 10 per cent more in rent, and get it rented out quicker – within 10 days, compared to properties that aren't staged.'
But TikTok users were left divided, with many expressing disbelief over the lavish upgrades.
One person wrote, 'This is too beautiful for students,' while another said, 'Glad you took video before the students trash it.'
A third added, 'My daughter is a student in York. I’ve seen the student houses. You’re either very brave or very silly,' while a fourth said, 'Amazing house but definitely nervous for you lol. Hopefully find the right tenants.'
Documenting his trip to a local Dunelm store, Coupland selected a new cream sofa - worth £550 - to enhance the home
Neutral-toned bedding, cushions and throws, as well as lamps and stylish desks, have been purchased to amplify the bedrooms
Sleek strip lighting lines the stairs, while the walls have been painted a neutral sage colour
Another warned: 'That couch is gonna be covered in wine and sick within the week.'
Finally, one person quipped: 'Having just spent the summer cleaning student houses in Brighton, I dread to think what this will look like in a year!!'
Despite the skepticism, some viewers defended the decision, with one person writing, 'Hope you get some nice students in! That's fab,' while another said, 'I as a parent would pay over and above to know my child was in one of your properties.'
Meanwhile, a heartbroken university fresher 'ruthlessly dumped' by landlords who ripped up her contract without warning just to move migrants into her luxury student tower block instead has told of her anguish.
Ellie Robinson was one of more than 150 students at Huddersfield University left in the lurch after a deal was struck between the Home Office and landlords to move asylum seekers into the HD1 building.
The 18-year-old from Thirsk, North Yorkshire, had been planning for months to move into the 405-bed lavish halls, which has its own gym and cinema room and where top-end suites can cost £200 a month to rent.