Renting a property overseas as a newly-arrived expat

If you’re determined to move overseas, there’s one aspect which needs to be first on your list of priorities.
Expats, renting a property, rental charges, rental scams, rental agencies, online research, local expat forums, Airbnb, study overseas, work abroad,
Renting a suitable property in your chosen overseas destination can by tricky for new expat arrivals due to language and cultural differences, but you’ll probably find similar basic rules apply. Choosing your location is best not done in a rush, and those who’re moving abroad for work purposes should research the destination city’s areas as regards travel to the new workplace. If you’re heading overseas to study at a particular university, online research can indicate districts popular with the student community due to reasonable rental prices.
For those just needing to leave, no matter where they end up, the entire world’s your oyster and the choice is huge.

Narrowing down your options takes time, but once you’ve decided on country and city, an exploratory visit is the best idea. Researching online as to the layout of the city, its various districts and comparative rental charges will give you a list of areas to explore. It’s the same for would-be expat pensioners, although finding an established foreign retiree community can be a priority for many. Deciding on your actual property needs is the next step and your choice should relate to your new lifestyle as well as your estimated monthly income. Obviously, singles need less room than couples or families, with studio apartments the best and often least expensive option.

Rushing into renting the first vaguely suitable property you’re shown is not the best idea, with finding temporary accommodation for when you first arrive giving you time to consider your options. Short-term accommodation via Airbnb or similar sites can be useful at this stage. Wherever you’ve decided to rent there’s likely to be a rental agency or two, but in less well-known locations it pays to be careful before committing yourself or handing over any money. Local expat forums can give clues as to what to avoid as well as identifying the latest scams in your chosen location. Some are ingenious, others are obvious, but all rip you off and give you a bad start to your new life.