How to Rent a Home in Luxembourg

Navigating the process of renting a home in Luxembourg 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 Luxembourg 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 Luxembourg, one of the first things you'll need to do is find a rental property. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment in Luxembourg, from finding a property to understanding the rental process and what to expect in terms of costs and legal requirements.

How do you find a rental property in Luxembourg?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Luxembourg. Online property portals such as atHome.lu, Immotop.lu, and Wortimmo.com are popular resources. Local newspapers also have property listings, and hiring a real estate agent can be beneficial as they have access to a wide range of properties and can guide you through the process.

Does Luxembourg have an MLS type system?

Luxembourg does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like in the United States. However, most real estate agencies in Luxembourg have their own websites where they list available properties. These websites are usually updated regularly 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 agents in Luxembourg must be licensed. They are required to hold a professional card issued by the Ministry of Middle Classes. You can verify an agent's license by asking to see their professional card or checking the public register on the Ministry's website.

Should I buy or rent in Luxembourg?

Whether to buy or rent in Luxembourg depends on your personal circumstances, such as your financial situation, how long you plan to stay, and your lifestyle preferences. Renting can be a good option if you're not sure how long you'll be in Luxembourg or if you prefer not to have the responsibilities of homeownership. Buying can be a good investment if you plan to stay for a long time and have the financial means.

Is it difficult to find rentals in Luxembourg?

Finding a rental in Luxembourg can be challenging due to high demand and relatively low supply, especially in popular areas such as Luxembourg City. It's advisable to start your search well in advance and be prepared to act quickly when you find a suitable property.

What documents are required when renting an apartment in Luxembourg?

When renting an apartment in Luxembourg, you'll typically need to provide a copy of your ID or passport, proof of income (such as recent pay slips or a job contract), and a bank reference. If you're a non-EU citizen, you may also need to provide a residence permit.

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

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in Luxembourg, it can be helpful, especially if you're not familiar with the local laws and regulations. A lawyer can review the lease agreement and ensure your rights are protected. The cost for a lawyer can vary, but you should expect to pay a few hundred euros.

How long is the typical lease for?

The typical lease in Luxembourg is for one to three years, but it can be longer. Most leases are renewable and require a three-month notice period for termination.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, it's standard practice in Luxembourg to pay a security deposit when renting an apartment. The deposit is usually equivalent to one to three 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 upfront costs when renting an apartment in Luxembourg can include the first month's rent, agency fees (if you're using a real estate agent), and possibly a guarantee fee. The guarantee fee is a type of insurance that covers the landlord in case of unpaid rent or damages to the property.

Are utilities included?

Utilities are typically not included in the rent in Luxembourg. Tenants are usually responsible for setting up and paying for utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet. The cost of utilities can vary depending on the size of the property and the number of occupants, but you should budget for a few hundred euros per month.

Are furnished or unfurnished rentals more popular in Luxembourg?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available in Luxembourg. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture and appliances, such as a bed, sofa, dining table, refrigerator, and stove. Unfurnished apartments usually only include a kitchen. The choice between furnished and unfurnished depends on your personal needs and preferences," said one expat living in Luxembourg.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"We have been here nearly 2 years. When my husband got the job offer to come over here, it was late August. The company flew us over in early September to look at housing. There was only one house in this town. After looking at houses that were 30 minutes from the school, we chose the first one. It's all about location, location, location. Our town has many expat families, so the carpooling opportunities are numerous. Besides, it is not our house, it is someone elses. Our time here is temporary. You don't want to spend weekends (Saturdays only as Sundays you can't use any power equipment!) worrying about the house. It's closer to school and a bit older, but conveniently located and serves the purpose," commented an expat living in Bertrange.

"Finding a place to live in Luxembourg can be a daunting task. The best way to start is by researching the different neighborhoods and areas of the country to determine which one best suits your needs. You can also look into local real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find a place to live. Additionally, there are a number of websites and online forums dedicated to helping expats find a place to live in Luxembourg. These websites often have listings of available apartments and houses, as well as helpful advice from other expats who have gone through the process. Finally, you can also look into local newspapers and classifieds for listings of available properties," said an expat in Luxembourg.