How to find and rent an apartment in Europe
Moving to another country, even another continent is an exciting adventure. Whatever is the reason for relocation, this life chapter is huge and important. However, after you decided to move to Europe, it’s time to start making plans for your relocation. And more importantly, you need to find a place to live – which is not that easy if you are moving to a completely new location. For that reason, we’ve created a simple guide on how to find and rent an apartment in Europe, to make things easier for all the newcomers. Here’s everything to know about finding a home and moving to Europe – a quick and easy way.
Finding an apartment in Europe
Once you’ve decided to move, you need to start looking for apartments. This might seem like an impossible mission since you are not there on the spot. However
it can be pretty easy, if you have the right strategy. Here are some tips on finding an apartment in Europe.
Decide basic living details
Before you start your search, set some basic details about your move. These should include the location, your budget, and if you’re getting a roommate. Once you know what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to narrow your search and find an apartment much faster. Here are some best places to visit in Europe, that might help you decide where you can stay.
Get recommendations
If anybody you know lives in the same place – get as many details and information about the new city as you can. They can also check if somebody they know rents a place or is looking for a roommate. Getting help from someone familiar is very useful when moving to an unknown country. Also, if you want to be moving to the old continent with ease, make sure you hire a familiar, reputable moving company. Friendly and professional help is something that will make everything smoother and faster.
Look for apartments online
One of the ways to find and rent an apartment in Europe is to browse websites that let you browse vacant properties. These are aggregator websites like Airbnb or FlipKey. Furthermore, you can check VRBO – Vacation Rentals By Owner, and Craigslist.
The advantage of browsing these websites is safety. Renting a place on Airbnb, for example, usually includes all the information about the owner, as well as the reviews on both the owner and the guests. Also, any payments you make are released to the owner after you check-in, which minimizes the chance for fraud. However, the disadvantage might be the purpose of the properties. These websites include many holiday rentals, which might not be what you’re looking for.
Contact a rental agency
Renting a place through a rental agency gives you a chance to browse only selected properties that can meet your needs and expectations. This can be a much faster and organized option. However, it’s also more expensive – agencies take their share in representing properties.
Renting an apartment
After you’ve found a place, it’s time to go through the last steps of renting an apartment. Before you commit to a place, make sure you ask some questions and find out more about the owner and the locations. Here are some things you should talk about with the owner:
- check if there’s a parking spot – if you plan on driving a car, see if there’s a garage or a street parking spot included in the rent price.
- check-in and check-out times
- the way you get the key and get in
- available amenities
- Wi-Fi availability and password
- cleaning policy
- cancellation policy
- pets rules
- guest rules
After going through all the details, you can safely commit to the place and make the first rent payment. However, don’t forget to check if there’s a discount for making a long-term stay.
Meeting with the owner
One of the most important steps is meeting with the owner and getting to the location. Make sure you get all the details about the place and precise directions, so you don’t waste time looking for it. Also, agree on the meeting details. Some owners will meet at the spot, while others will give you instructions on how to get the key. Usually, there are safety boxes that open with dedicated code, or by using an app.
Don’t forget: Most of the buildings in Europe don’t have reception desks. That’s why, if anything happens, the owner might not be able to react quickly. For that reason, make sure you get all the contact details that you can use to reach the owner whenever you need them.
The costs
Budget is the top priority when you find and rent an apartment in Europe. The rent details are generally pretty clear but don’t forget to ask about any additional costs. These might include cleaning fees or deposits. Also, plan your moving budget as well – learn all the ways to cut down moving costs.
Moving to Europe
Going to Europe should be planned and organized, especially if you’re leaving for a longer period. The key to a successful move is detailed, on-time organization, and skillful help. Hire a company you can trust, like movingtransparent.com – a company specialized in overseas relocations and with a lot of experience. This way, you can be sure that everything goes according to the plan, and that your items are safe during transport.
Adjusting to Europe
Depending on where you’re moving to, you’ll need to have a more or less adjusting period after you find and rent an apartment in Europe. First of all, do everything you can do avoid jet lag. Adjust your sleeping schedule days before the flight, eat healthily, and stay hydrated at all times. Also, do some research on the local culture and try to meet some new people online. And after you arrive, be sure to get around and explore your new environment – Europe is friendly and you’ll have no trouble with adjusting to your new home
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