Real Estate in Belgium

How do I find a place to live in Belgium?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Belgium is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Websites such as Immoweb, Immovlan, and Logic-Immo are popular in Belgium and offer a wide range of rental properties. Additionally, there are many Facebook groups dedicated to helping people find housing in Belgium. You can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live. Additionally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in supermarkets and other public places," said one expat who made the move to Belgium.

"I visited estate agents and one of them introduced me to my gorgeous furnished flat. It's difficult to find furnished properties for rent in Bruges. They're mostly unfurnished. I paid the commission and administrative charges happily. The rent is ludicrously cheap," explained one foreigner living in Bruges, Belgium.

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Furnished Rentals in Belgium from Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Belgium?

"Expat homes and apartments in Belgium tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and open spaces. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and other amenities. Expat apartments often come with modern appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, as well as high-speed internet. Expats may also find that their apartments come with balconies or terraces, providing a great place to relax and enjoy the views," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Belgium.

"I live in a rented studio. I'm not sure about where or in what type of housing other expats are living," explained one person living in Bruges, Belgium.

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We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.

SEARCH RENTALS

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.

SEARCH RENTALS

What is the average cost of housing in Belgium?

If you are thinking about moving to Belgium, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Belgium is generally quite high, with prices varying depending on the location and type of property. In the larger cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, the cost of housing is typically higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. Renting a property in Belgium can be expensive, with prices ranging from around €500 to €1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Buying a property in Belgium can also be costly, with the average price of a house in the country estimated to be around €250,000," said one person in Belgium.

"Lower, much lower. I had been living in London and I would say that this flat would be worth at least twice as much in London," said one expat who made the move to Bruges.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Belgium?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Belgium, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Belgium can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of buying a home in Belgium, as well as the cost of living in the area. Renting a home in Belgium can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Belgium can give you the flexibility to move to a different area if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Belgium should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat in Belgium.

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What do I need to know when buying property in Belgium?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Belgium, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the different types of property available in Belgium. 2. It is important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Belgium, including the need for a notary to complete the transaction. 3. It is important to understand the taxation implications of buying property in Belgium, including the registration tax and the transfer tax. 4. It is important to understand the different types of mortgages available in Belgium and the associated costs. 5. It is important to understand the different types of insurance available in Belgium, including home insurance and liability insurance. 6. It is important to understand the different types of maintenance and repair services available in Belgium, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC services. 7. It is important to understand the different types of rental agreements available in Belgium, including short-term and long-term leases. 8. It is important to understand the different types of tenant rights in Belgium, including the right to a safe and healthy living environment," explained one person living in Belgium.

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Are foreigners allowed to own property in Belgium?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Belgium, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Belgium. Non-EU citizens must be registered with the local commune, but they can purchase residential real estate that will be used as their home. EU citizens can buy any real estate in Belgium without having to register, although they may need to provide proof of residence. There is no restriction on the amount of property foreigners can own in Belgium," explained one foreigner living in Belgium.

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What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Belgium what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Belgium typically come equipped with the necessary appliances needed for daily living such as a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, and washing machine. Additional appliances such as a microwave, television, and furniture may also be included in some properties," explained one person living in Belgium.

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Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Belgium:

We asked foreigners in Belgium what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Belgium by looking online for a variety of resources, such as real estate websites, classifieds, and expat forums. It is also beneficial to consult local real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find the right property, and it may be useful to attend property viewings in person. Relocation agents can also help expats understand the regulations and process for renting or buying a property in Belgium," said one expat in Belgium.

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