They rent flats or even bedsits were possible and I suspect at our expense. Anywhere within easy reach of the commons is at a premium.
Sadly they don't I only know of former MP Jon Mann rented a someones spare room his view was all he needed was a bed and a TV. After all who cares at how much a place is when you get your most of mortgage paid. Then when you leave you end up with london pad free to do wha you like with.