How to Rent a Home in Ecuador

Navigating the process of renting a home in Ecuador for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made Ecuador their home.

"Relocating to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience, and one of the first tasks you'll face is finding a place to live. If you're planning to move to Ecuador, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment in this beautiful South American country. From finding a rental property to understanding the legalities involved, we've got you covered.

How do you find a rental property in Ecuador?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Ecuador. Online platforms such as Plusvalia, Ecuador Homes Online, and Viva Tropical are popular among expats. Local newspapers also have rental listings, and word-of-mouth can be a reliable source of information. It's also common to see "Se Alquila" (For Rent) signs on properties. However, it's recommended to visit the property and meet the landlord before making any commitments.

Does Ecuador have an MLS type system?

Ecuador does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like in the United States. Therefore, each real estate agent or broker has their own unique listings. This means you may need to work with multiple agents to see a variety of properties.

Do brokers have licenses and how do I know if they are licensed?

Yes, real estate brokers in Ecuador are required to have a license. The Ecuadorian Real Estate Association (ACBIR) is responsible for licensing and regulating real estate professionals. You can verify a broker's license by checking with ACBIR.

Should I buy or rent in Ecuador?

Whether to buy or rent is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances. Renting can be a good option if you're new to the country and still exploring different areas. Buying might be a better choice if you plan to stay long-term. Property prices in Ecuador are generally lower than in North America and Europe, but it's important to do thorough research and consider all costs involved.

Is it difficult to find rentals in Ecuador?

Finding a rental in Ecuador is not typically difficult, especially in larger cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. However, the process can be more challenging in smaller towns or rural areas where there are fewer properties available and less online information.

What documents are required when renting an apartment in Ecuador?

When renting an apartment in Ecuador, you'll typically need to provide a copy of your passport, proof of income or financial stability, and references from previous landlords. Some landlords may also require a local guarantor.

Do I need a lawyer when renting an apartment in Ecuador?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in Ecuador, it's highly recommended. A lawyer can review the rental contract, ensure it's legally sound, and protect your interests. Legal fees can vary, but you can expect to pay around $500-$1000.

How long is the typical lease for?

The typical lease term in Ecuador is one year, but it's possible to negotiate a shorter or longer term depending on your needs and the landlord's flexibility.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, it's standard practice in Ecuador to pay a security deposit, which is usually equivalent to one or two months' rent. This deposit is refundable at the end of the lease, provided there are no damages to the property.

What other upfront costs are there when renting?

In addition to the security deposit, you'll also need to pay the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also require a last month's rent. Brokerage fees, if applicable, are usually equivalent to one month's rent.

Are utilities included?

Whether utilities are included in the rent depends on the individual rental agreement. In some cases, utilities such as water, electricity, and gas may be included. However, it's more common for tenants to set up and pay for these services themselves. Utility costs in Ecuador are generally lower than in North America and Europe.

Are furnished or unfurnished rentals more popular in Ecuador?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available in Ecuador. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture, kitchen appliances, and sometimes even linens and dishes. Unfurnished apartments usually only include major appliances like a refrigerator and stove. Furnished apartments are more popular among short-term renters and expats, while unfurnished apartments are often preferred by long-term residents," said one expat living in Ecuador.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"A "suite" or two rooms and bath, lovely little place, good dueno and furnished nicely with condominio fee monthly it's $460. in the swanky neightborhood of Gonzalez Suarez. Noise here is bad," said one expat living in Quito.

"If you really want to experience and love Ecuador - or any other foreign - don't make the mistake that too many ex-pats do by surrounding themselves with other ex-pats in an all-ex-pat gated community. Why move to a foreign country only to surround yourself with English-speaking gringos who sit around all day complaining about how everything was "so much better back home"?," wrote a member in Ecuador.

"My wife and I came to Ecuador this summer, we live in a 2 bedroom apartment in Loja, Ecuador. Our building has 4 units of which 3 are occupied. We have many of the comforts of a first world country except a dishwasher, oven, elevator. We don't need or have a/c. We are 10 to 15 minutes walk to downtown and have stores, bakeries and a great market in easy walking distance. And saving the best for last we have an exquisite view of mountains all around us and great, responsive, caring landlord's. Who could ask for more?," commented one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Cuenca neighborhoods, unless you only walk everywhere, are not as significant in Cuenca as they are in other cities AND other countries. The expat population (especially the 50% from North America, is not significant enough to make a difference and the safety factor does not vary to the point where is means much. A section of the city's west end is dubbed "Gringolandia" with the Cuenca's largest condo (18 stories) called "The Gringo Palace", But upon investigation, it has only a 10% ownership of foreigners..with the rest Ecuadorians. The neighborhood has a much lower percentage of gringos. However, there are other reasons to investigate where you rent or buy in Cuenca that are not obvious, like bus and grocery proximity. I recall a lovely American couple who arrived and immediately rented in the small Red Light District. (Municipally-regulated prostitution is legal in Ecuador) When they found out more about the neighborhood, they remarked they enjoyed all the happy faces around them," remarked one expat living in Cuenca.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"We made an exploratory trip months before we decided to come and live in Cuenca, Ecuador. We did not really choose the neighborhood we just found the apartment absolutely fell in love with it and the price was just right and the view and everything. It seemed like a good neighborhood as well and we bought it within two weeks of being in this country. To date 18 months later we are still very very happy with our purchase. We have since found it is a great neighborhood close to all amenities but far enough from the centre of the city," commented an expat living in Cuenca.

"Fortunately, my company hired a relocation firm. Sanborondon is the upper class, safe, and happening nearby suburb of Guayaquil. It was almost a given that I would live there as an expat with Company-provided housing. The Company also hired a realtor for us who helped with our search options (furnished, gated community, 3 bdrms, spacious, pool). Newspaper ads weren't very helpful at all. Word of mouth or realtors are the way to go," said an expat in Guayaquil.

"Drove around to explore area in Bahia and San Vicente, knowing that we wanted the coastal region and something close enough to our property further north above Jama. Found a low rise (one of only a couple) since we knew we did not wish to be in a high rise for temporary quarters. Saw signs and made the calls to places that seemed interesting," remarked one expat who made the move to Bahia and San Vicente.

"Through the internet we found a person whom totally misrepresented the rental market, however not knowing we were taken advantage of," explained one expat living in Cuenca.

"We found a B&B first however the price went up to $550 mo instead of the 300 which was advertised. They said the 300 ones were taken,(not true they didn't exist. We were lucky enough to meet others on the street that told us of better places for $210 mo. We moved. Ask around especially the cab drivers, they know a lot," said one expat in Cuenca.