THIS may not be the year to be an early bird when it comes to seeking accommodation in the private sector says Maura O'Neill, accommodation officer at UCC.

"There's a big supply of accommodation this year because it's the only market holding its value within the property sector. Houses previously targeting the executive market are now addressing the student market - which means flat screen TVs and en suite bedrooms.

"Given the slowdown there is ample accommodation on offer. I predict a further price cut come September."

In Dublin, Trinity and UCD students have to try and find accommodation in some of the priciest rental sectors in the country. Trinity has only 700 places on campus in the city centre and recommends students also try Daft.ie. Another popular source is Collegecribs.ie. With supply at an all-time high it is likely that we will see continued falls in rents over coming months, says Shane Kelly, president of the Union of Students of Ireland in his blog on Daft.ie