New to Saudi Arabia?
New to Saudi Arabia?
Here's Your Guide to Renting Your First Place
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. If you’re new to Saudi Arabia and navigating the rental market for the first time, this guide is here to help make the process smoother for you.
Know What You Need
Before you start your search, it’s crucial to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for:
Set Your Budget: A good rule of thumb is to keep your rent at no more than 30% of your monthly income. This helps ensure you have enough left over for other expenses.
Determine Your Essentials: Consider the size of the place you need, the number of rooms, and any specific features like a balcony or extra storage space.
Think About Amenities: Do you need parking? Access to a gym? A communal space? List these out so you can prioritise what’s important to you.
Visit In Person: If possible, visit the properties to check out the facilities and overall condition before committing.
Starting Your Search
There are several ways to find rental properties in Saudi Arabia:
Traditional Routes: You can visit local real estate offices, which are common in most neighbourhoods.
Online Platforms: Websites and apps dedicated to real estate listings can be very helpful. They offer detailed descriptions and photos, giving you a good sense of what’s available.
Ask Around: Friends, colleagues, or acquaintances can be a great resource. They might know of reliable real estate agents or landlords.
Explore the Area: Sometimes simply walking around your preferred neighbourhood can lead you to “For Rent” signs and direct contact with landlords.
Ensuring Trustworthiness
It's crucial to ensure that the real estate office or broker you deal with is trustworthy:
Check Credentials: If you’re working with an agency, make sure they have all the necessary legal documents and a proper commercial registration, which you can verify online.
Verify Licence: For individual brokers, check if they have a valid licence for real estate transactions.
Read Reviews: Look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients to get a sense of their reputation and service quality.
Experience Matters: Experienced agents or brokers can provide better guidance and have a deeper understanding of the market.
Sealing the Deal: Contracts and Payments
It's crucial to ensure that the real estate office or broker you deal with is trustworthy:
Use the “Ejar” Platform: This is the official system for rental contracts in Saudi Arabia. It ensures all terms are clearly stated, including the rental period, monthly rent, and responsibilities of both parties
Secure Payments: Always make your rent payments through the “Ejar” platform to protect your rights and avoid any misunderstandings.
Final Tips
When choosing a place, consider the location—proximity to work, schools, and other essential services can make a big difference in your daily life. Don’t hesitate to negotiate on rent, amenities, and services like utility bills. The right property at the right price will not only fit your needs but also make you feel at home.
With some planning and research, you can find a comfortable and reliable place to live in Saudi Arabia. Happy house hunting!
