Published October 8, 2025
Most rental mistakes happen before the viewing. Build your dossier, know the red flags, and secure utilities from day one.
• FR: SeLoger, PAP, agencies; ES/PT/IT: Idealista; DE/AT: Immowelt/Immoscout; UK/IE: Rightmove/Daft; plus reputable agencies.
• Short-term bridge: Spotahome, apart-hotels, verified Facebook groups.
ID, work contract/offer, last 3 payslips (or savings proof), previous landlord ref, employer letter, savings statement. Add a 1-page intro with move-in date, salary, quiet hobbies.
• FR: 1–2 months deposit, guarantor common; alternatives: Garantie Visale or paid guarantor services.
• DE: Kaution up to 3 months, paid into a blocked account; no cash handovers.
• ES/IT/PT: 1–2 months + agency fees in some cities. Always official receipts.
1) Never pay before a signed contract. 2) Verify the agency's registration. 3) Contract language must be official. 4) Deposit to an agency/escrow account. 5) Ask for proof of property ownership.
Meters (gas/electric/water), walls, ceilings, windows, appliances, bathroom seals, keys. Send photos the same day by email to timestamp.
Bring meter readings to supplier; ask for no-penalty monthly plan you can change later. Get a local SIM and basic home insurance the same day.
"Thank you for today's viewing. I confirm strong interest and can move in from [date]. My dossier is attached; happy to pay deposit immediately upon contract signature."
Yes with a guarantor, employer letter, or savings proof. Offer 2–3 months upfront if legal.
Furnished speeds move-in but costs more and may be shorter term. Unfurnished is cheaper long term.
For more practical insights on this topic, explore our related articles:
Conclusion: A tight dossier, cautious payments, and a photographed inventory turn renting into a controlled process. You keep the keys—and your peace of mind.
1 tip per week, no spam.
Jules Guerini is a European expat guide sharing practical, tested advice for navigating life abroad. From admin to housing to healthcare, he focuses on simple strategies that actually work. Contact: info@expatadminhub.com
From October 2025, the European Union is gradually rolling out the new electronic Entry/Exit System (EES), replacing traditional passport stamps for non-EU nationals. If you are an expat not from the EU or planning short stays, this change affects your travel, border checks, and planning. This article calmly explains: the situation, what to expect, how to prepare, and key takeaways.
Read the article
Autumn is often the season when many leases come up for renewal across Europe. If you're an expat and your tenancy is ending, it can feel stressful — renegotiating, administrative hoops, tenant rights, and more. This article walks you through what to expect, how to prepare, and how to negotiate with confidence.
Read the article
Heading abroad in Europe while keeping your health coverage intact is still a common concern for expats. In 2025, the rules around the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC / CEAM) have some updates and reminders worth knowing. This article will walk you — step by step — through what the card covers, how to renew it, and how to stay protected while traveling or on temporary stays.
Read the article