Hello!

One of the first things to do when settling in Belgium is to find a home. In order to rent a flat/apartment or house you should familiarize yourself with the area, determine where you want to live, and evaluate what you need. Consider access to shops, schools, transport, and work.

If you have already been through the process of selecting a home in Belgium, you can provide valuable advice on how and why you selected your home, and provide tips for people moving to your area.

How did you find your accommodation? Estate agent or classifieds? Did you use a website? Or did you find your place through friends or word-of-mouth? What do you recommend?

Was it quick to find or did it take a long time? What are the essential points you considered (transport, schools, shops… etc).

How much is the average price of accommodation? What are the costs involved for renting? Do you need a deposit? Guarantees?

What are the formalities and the contract requirements in Belgium? Are there important clauses members should consider? Is there an inventory? What are the conditions for leaving or giving notice?

Please offer your advice or questions! This is a tricky step in moving abroad and personal advice, mistakes to avoid and things to consider are extremely helpful.

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

 

Hi Socrates & welcome to EasyExpat!

I moved your post to the topic "Renting in Belgium" so other people looking for accommodations can read your advice.

Thanks for sharing your tip! That is a really important note for people to consider. I visited Leuven during the day and was so impressed by it's beauty, but it makes sense that some places are very noisy. What area do you live in now? Where do you recommend in the city?

For others looking to rent in Belgium, be sure to consult our guide to Brussels with info on renting in Belgium and our Expat Belgium classifieds.

Best of luck everyone & please feel free to share your tips & questions.