How to Rent a Home in Romania

Navigating the process of renting a home in Romania 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 Romania their home.

"Relocating to a new country can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. If you're planning to move to Romania, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment. From finding a rental property to understanding the legalities involved, this guide will help you navigate the Romanian rental market with ease.

How Do You Find a Rental Property in Romania?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Romania. Online platforms such as OLX, Storia, and Imobiliare are popular among locals and expats alike. These websites provide listings for a wide range of properties across the country. You can also find rental properties through local newspapers or real estate agencies. It's advisable to engage a real estate agent, especially if you're not fluent in Romanian, as they can help you navigate the market and negotiate terms.

Does Romania Have an MLS Type System?

Romania does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like in the United States. However, real estate agencies and online platforms provide comprehensive listings of available properties. These platforms are regularly updated and provide detailed information about each property, including photos, location, size, and price.

Do Brokers Have Licenses and How Do I Know if They Are Licensed?

Yes, real estate brokers in Romania are required to have a license. The Romanian Association of Real Estate Agencies (ARAI) oversees the licensing process. You can verify a broker's license by checking with ARAI or asking the broker to provide proof of their license.

Should I Buy or Rent in Romania?

Whether to buy or rent depends on your personal circumstances and long-term plans. Renting is a flexible option and requires less upfront investment. However, if you plan to stay in Romania for a long time, buying might be a better option as property prices are relatively low compared to other European countries. It's advisable to consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional before making a decision.

Is It Difficult to Find Rentals in Romania?

Finding a rental in Romania is not particularly difficult, especially in larger cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara. However, the process can be challenging if you're not familiar with the local language and customs. Engaging a real estate agent can make the process smoother.

What Documents Are Required When Renting an Apartment in Romania?

When renting an apartment in Romania, you'll need to provide your passport or ID card, proof of income (such as pay slips or a job contract), and a rental agreement. The rental agreement should be in Romanian and, if necessary, translated into your language. It should detail the terms of the lease, including the rent, deposit, and responsibilities of both parties.

Do I Need a Lawyer When Renting an Apartment in Romania?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in Romania, it can be beneficial, especially if you're not fluent in Romanian. A lawyer can review the rental agreement to ensure it's fair and legal. The cost of a lawyer can vary, but you can expect to pay around €100-€200 for their services.

How Long Is the Typical Lease For?

The typical lease in Romania is for one year, but it can be negotiated with the landlord. Some landlords may offer a discount for longer leases. It's important to ensure the lease agreement clearly states the duration of the lease and the notice period required for termination.

Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?

Yes, it's standard practice in Romania to pay a deposit when renting an apartment. The deposit is usually equivalent to one or two months' rent and is refundable at the end of the lease, provided there are no damages to the property.

What Other Upfront Costs Are There When Renting?

Other than the deposit, you may also need to pay the first month's rent upfront. If you're using a real estate agent, you'll need to pay their fee, which is typically around one month's rent. Some landlords may also require a maintenance fee.

Are Utilities Included?

Utilities are usually not included in the rent and are the responsibility of the tenant. This includes electricity, water, heating, and internet. The cost of utilities can vary depending on the size of the apartment and usage, but they are generally not expensive.

Are Furnished or Unfurnished Rentals More Popular?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available in Romania. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture and appliances such as a bed, sofa, refrigerator, and stove. Unfurnished apartments may not include any appliances. Furnished apartments are more popular among expats and short-term renters, while long-term renters and locals may prefer unfurnished apartments as they can furnish the apartment to their liking," said one expat living in Romania.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"I live in a rented flat on the 9th floor. It's a renovated 3-room apartment in a communistic block and I share it with 2 other expat, one of which is a colleague of mine, the other - a firend of a colleague. It's quite typical to share apartments, because most expats work in a more or less international environment with other expat folks. Also, compared to food prices at a market, for example, I find apartments to be disproportionately expensive. Especially when renting a studio," said one expat living in Bucharest.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"Through aquaintances. Met some international exchange students and kept in contact with them shrough social networks," commented an expat living in Bucharest.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Romania is to use online resources such as websites and classifieds. Websites such as Imobiliare.ro, OLX.ro, and Ziarul Imobiliar are great resources for finding apartments, houses, and other types of real estate in Romania. Additionally, classifieds such as Craigslist and Gumtree can be used to find rental properties in Romania. Additionally, it is possible to find a place to live in Romania by networking with people in the area, such as friends, family, or colleagues. Finally, it is also possible to find a place to live in Romania by contacting local real estate agents or property management companies," said an expat in Romania.