Real Estate in Liege, Belgium
Last updated on Jun 17, 2024
Summary: People living in Liege, Belgium offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Liege? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Liege?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Liege, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a studio apartment to a larger family home. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Liege to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include the city center, Outremeuse, and Saint-Leonard. Once you have an idea of where you'd like to live, you can start your search. There are several online platforms that list properties for rent or sale in Liege, such as Immoweb, Zimmo, and Immovlan. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, price, size, and other features. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help with your search. They can provide valuable local knowledge and help negotiate the rental or purchase agreement. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to inspect the property and ask any questions. If you're planning to rent, you'll likely need to provide proof of income, references, and possibly a security deposit. If you're buying, you'll need to secure financing and possibly hire a notary to handle the legal aspects of the purchase. Finally, once you've found your new home and signed the necessary paperwork, you can start planning your move. This might involve hiring a moving company, setting up utilities, and changing your address with various institutions. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's important to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," explained one person living in Liege, Belgium.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Liege?
"A typical expat home or apartment in Liege, is often located in the city center or in the quieter suburbs. These homes are usually modern and well-maintained, with a blend of traditional Belgian architecture and contemporary design. They often feature high ceilings, large windows, and hardwood floors. The living area is usually spacious, with a comfortable seating area and a dining space. The kitchen is typically fully equipped with modern appliances, including a dishwasher, oven, and refrigerator. The bedrooms are usually cozy and well-lit, with ample storage space. Some apartments may also have a small balcony or terrace, offering views of the city or the surrounding greenery. The bathrooms are typically modern and clean, often featuring a bathtub or a shower. Most expat homes in Liege also come with amenities such as central heating, Wi-Fi, and a washing machine. Some may also have access to a shared garden or courtyard. Despite being in a foreign country, these homes are designed to provide all the comforts and conveniences that one would expect in a modern home. In terms of location, these homes are often close to public transportation, making it easy for expats to commute to work or explore the city. They are also usually within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Despite being in the heart of the city, these homes often offer a quiet and peaceful living environment. In summary, a typical expat home in Liege, Belgium, is comfortable, modern, and conveniently located, offering a high standard of living for expats," said one person in Liege.
What is the average cost of housing in Liege?
If you are thinking about moving to Liege, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Liege can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For instance, the price of an apartment in the city center may be higher compared to those in the outskirts. As of recent data, the average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately €600-€700 per month. For a three-bedroom apartment in the same area, the cost can go up to around €1,000-€1,200 per month. If you're looking to buy property, the average price per square meter in the city center is around €2,000-€2,500. However, these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and other factors," said one expat who made the move to Liege.
Should I buy or rent a home in Liege?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Liege, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"The decision to buy or rent a home in Liege, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Liege for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a home allows you to build equity over time and could provide financial stability in the future. However, buying a home also comes with additional costs such as maintenance, insurance, and property taxes. It also requires a significant upfront investment for the down payment and closing costs. Therefore, if you're not ready for these financial commitments, renting might be a better option. Renting a home in Liege offers more flexibility. It's a good option if you're not sure about your long-term plans or if you prefer not to deal with the responsibilities of homeownership. Renting can also be more affordable in the short term, as it doesn't require a large upfront investment. However, renting doesn't build equity and rental rates can increase over time. You also have less control over your living space when you rent, as you can't make significant changes without the landlord's permission. In conclusion, whether you should buy or rent a home in Liege depends on your financial situation, long-term plans, and personal preferences. It's important to carefully consider all these factors before making a decision," explained one expat living in Liege, Belgium.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.