Despite being a small city, Luxembourg is among the places foreigners would love to stay. That is because of the quality of life that other western countries cannot offer.
Foreigners make up 50% of all residents in Luxembourg. Given that figure, renting becomes the most cost-effective option for those who want to settle in the city.
So if you have plans to stay, but are unsure how long you’ll be there, the best way to start is to find flats in Luxembourg available for rent. Learn more about what you should look for in a new living space when in Luxembourg.
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Ask Yourself What You Need in an Apartment
Make a list of what you need before renting. Think about why you want to visit the city. It will help you weigh your options and create a spending plan. Doing so would prevent you from buying things you do not need.
Get Familiar with the City’s Standard of Living
Luxembourg has strict rules about long-term rentals. So, the first thing to do is to learn about the policies. Ask owners of a list of rules. You can even look for a rental contract for your reference.
A house that you rent should also fit your lifestyle. Knowing that you can save money from renting than owning a high-end villa would help your budget go a long way.
Estate Agents in Luxembourg
Check out directories or look for a real estate agent. You can find them on websites and in local newspapers. They help house seekers find space quickly, especially those visiting for the first time.
For instance, a property owner in the Grand Duchy would hire a real estate agency to find a renter. If it would be you, be aware of certain terms that would exist for you and the agent.
An agent would get a cut of each deal (usually the first month’s rent plus 17% VAT). You need to agree on that before you sign any leasing contract. Otherwise, find the next option that would fit your plans and budget.
Tip: If the landlord doesn’t sign a contract, which protects you, a real estate agent can help. They also have the job of explaining the terms to you.
The Consumers’ Union guide explains renter rights and responsibilities. So before you move in, make sure you have asked the rules or get an agent to account for things you need to know.
Rent Stipend
The local government allots rent subsidies, and you can now receive €200-€400 per month. That is why many singles also consider Luxembourg as their home.
A single person earning up to €3.126,83 will receive €200, a couple earning up to €4.800,49 will receive €360, and a family with three or more children will receive up to €400.
To receive the subsidy, you must also be:
- A legal resident of Luxembourg.
- Possess a steady income.
- Pay more than 25% of your monthly payment in rent.
- Sign a lease and full-time residency (you should not have another accommodation).
Proposed Law for Renters
The following are not yet laws. But it is helpful that you know some of the bills of rights for renters are being drafted. Get a heads up on what you can do with problems like:
- Agent fees and security deposits are split between the renter and the landlord.
- Rent fees can go up or down 5% of the price for homes with energy ratings of A and 3% for those with low ratings (F-I)
- A common settlement charge is given to a tenant who leaves the property in good shape, with half of their deposit back within a month.
- A 10% late fee is charged when the tenant leaves the property in bad shape.
- “Wohngemeinschaft” refers to the rules for flat sharing.
On top of that, another bill proposes a progressive tax on empty homes that could be sold or rented.
Places To Live and Do Business in Luxembourg
In general, apartments are more common in the city, while houses with yards are more common in the suburbs. Suppose you are moving to Luxembourg for work. In that case, you should look for a place in one of the central districts nearby. Here are some of them:
- Kirchberg is the centre of Luxembourg City’s business, government, and culture.
- Limpertsberg is a quiet residential area that is close to Kirchberg.
- Belair is one of Luxembourg City’s most tranquil neighbourhoods.
- Ville Haute and Gare are two central districts of Luxembourg City that are next to each other.
- Cloche d’Or is a part of Luxembourg City that is one of the newest and greenest.
- Gasperich is the best place for your Luxembourg corporate housing if you want to enjoy modern architecture in a lively area.
With this in mind, it is best to learn the schedules and routes to get you to your workplace. Check how to get there by bus or train. Luxembourg’s free public transport can quadruple during rush hour, so you might choose to walk instead of taking a short commute.
Utilities in Luxembourg Rentals
The local law requires landlords to get energy performance certificates. So an apartment often has all-inclusive rates and comes with furniture like a TV.
Meanwhile, an unfurnished flat could be more budget-friendly. It excludes gas (or oil), electricity, phone, high-speed Internet, garbage collection, or water from the monthly rent.
Last Tip
So, if you rent a house, ask a landlord or an agent to guide you with the terms. Find people who can help you make the process easier. Be familiar with the people and the lifestyle so you won’t get lost when finding your new home in a foreign land.