A Comprehensive Guide to Finding an Apartment Abroad For Your Family

How to Find an Apartment Abroad for You and Your Family…

Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but finding the perfect home for your family can be challenging. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or simply a new experience, securing a comfortable, safe, and affordable apartment should be at the top of your priority list.

As a family of five who has lived all over the world we have first hand experience of finding apartments overseas. We have spent hours (And I mean HOURS!) searching websites, viewing apartments and talking with international real estate agents in order to find our dream apartments in a variety of countries.

We want to save you some trouble by learning from some of our mistakes, so we have put together a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Here are some of our top tips…

1. Determine Your Budget

Before beginning your search, establish a clear budget. Consider not just the rent but also additional costs such as utilities, internet, transportation, and local taxes. Research the cost of living in your target country to get a realistic idea of what you can afford. Be sure to check out our other post on how to find housing abroad for some additional tips and tricks.

2. Choose the Right Neighborhood

The ideal neighborhood will depend on your family’s lifestyle and needs. Consider factors like proximity to work, schools, hospitals, parks, and public transportation. Research online forums, expat groups, and local social media pages to get insights from residents about the best family-friendly areas. We have learned the hard way that choosing a home far from our kids school was a huge inconvenience, so be sure to consider your day to day routine and what your ideal life will look like. This is a great post on how we chose the perfect location for our family.

3. Use Reliable Rental Platforms

Instead of relying solely on general real estate websites, use platforms tailored to expats and international movers. Websites like Airbnb (for short-term stays), Idealista (for Spain and Italy), and Property Finder (for the Middle East) can help you explore available options. Local Facebook groups and expat forums can also be valuable resources.

4. Consider Hiring a Local Real Estate Agent

Navigating a foreign rental market can be tricky, especially with language barriers and different leasing laws. A reputable local agent can help you find listings that match your criteria, negotiate lease terms, and explain local rental regulations. Just make sure you vet them before entering into any kind of agreement.

5. Understand Rental Agreements and Legal Requirements

Every country has its own rental laws, deposit requirements, and tenant rights. Before signing a lease, ensure you fully understand the contract. Some questions to ask include:

• What is included in the rent (utilities, maintenance, etc.)?
• What is the deposit and refund policy?
• Are there any restrictions (pets, renovations, etc.)?
• What is the lease duration and termination policy?

Be sure to get all these specifications in writing before moving forward with signing a lease.

6. Consider Short-Term Rentals First

If you’re unfamiliar with the country or unsure about a particular neighborhood, consider starting with a short-term rental. This allows you to explore different areas and find a long-term apartment that truly suits your family’s needs.

We ALWAYS stay in a short term rental before choosing our long term lease. This gives us a chance to get to know the area and make sure it is the perfect spot for our family.

7. Visit in Person (If Possible)

While virtual tours and online listings can be helpful, there’s no substitute for seeing a place in person. If you can, visit before committing to a lease to check the apartment’s condition, safety, and surroundings.

8. Check for Essential Amenities

Every family has different needs, so make a checklist of essential amenities. Consider factors like:

• Elevator access (especially in older buildings). Many foreign countries do not have the codes and requirements that we are used to in the United States.
• Safety features (gated communities, security cameras, fire exits)
• Play areas or green spaces for children
• Pet-friendly policies if you have animals. There have been many listing that don’t allow pets but we always suggest giving an extra deposit if they will allow our big dog Mo on the lease.

9. Connect with the Expat Community

Networking with other expat families can provide valuable insights into the housing market. Online expat communities often share rental recommendations, landlord reviews, and neighborhood tips that can save you time and stress. Expats are an invaluable source of first hand information so be sure to reach out and ask questions.

10. Plan for the Move-In Process

Once you’ve secured an apartment, plan for the logistics of moving in. Consider how you’ll furnish your new home—whether renting a furnished apartment, buying second-hand furniture, or shipping items from your home country. Also, ensure utilities like electricity, water, and internet are set up before arrival. Check out this post on how we packed for our move abroad.

Final Thoughts

Finding an apartment abroad for your family can be a complex process, but with careful research, planning, and local support, you can secure a comfortable and welcoming home. Take your time, prioritize your family’s needs, and embrace the adventure of settling into a new country!

And lastly be sure to involve your kids in the process. Our children were always so excited, helpful and insightful when it came to choosing the best location and housing for our family. It is also a great learning experience and opportunity for the entire family. Happy house hunting!

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