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Best Platforms to Find Rentals in Europe as an Expat
Finding an apartment in Europe as an expat can be challenging, especially if you don’t speak the local language or lack a rental history in the country. Fortunately, there are several online platforms that make it easier to find apartments, houses, and shared accommodations before or after your move.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ The best websites for renting in Europe
✅ Country-specific rental platforms
✅ Tips for avoiding scams and securing housing as an expat
1. Best General Rental Platforms for Europe
These platforms cover multiple European countries, making them great options if you’re searching across different cities.
🔹 Idealista
🌍 Best for: Spain, Portugal, Italy
🏡 What’s available? Apartments, houses, shared flats
🔄 Pros: User-friendly, available in English, reliable listings
❌ Cons: Competitive in popular cities (Barcelona, Lisbon)
🔹 HousingAnywhere
🌍 Best for: Short-term & long-term rentals across Europe
🏡 What’s available? Apartments, co-living spaces
🔄 Pros: Safe for international renters, English-friendly
❌ Cons: Service fees apply for bookings
🔹 Spotahome
🌍 Best for: Fully online rental process in major cities
🏡 What’s available? Apartments, co-living, student housing
🔄 Pros: Virtual tours, no in-person visits needed
❌ Cons: Higher rental prices due to service fees
🔹 Flatio
🌍 Best for: Mid-term & long-term rentals (1-12 months)
🏡 What’s available? Furnished apartments, co-living spaces
🔄 Pros: No deposit required, lease agreements in English
❌ Cons: Limited availability in smaller cities
🔹 Airbnb (Long-Term Rentals)
🌍 Best for: Temporary accommodation before securing a long-term lease
🏡 What’s available? Furnished apartments, rooms
🔄 Pros: Safe payments, flexible contracts
❌ Cons: More expensive than local rentals
2. Best Rental Platforms by Country
Each country has its own popular rental websites. If you know where you’re moving, these platforms will offer more local listings and better deals.
🇫🇷 France
• SeLoger → Best for long-term rentals.
• Pap.fr → No agent fees, direct landlord listings.
• LeBonCoin → France’s Craigslist, good for cheap apartments.
🇩🇪 Germany
• Immobilienscout24 → Largest property portal in Germany.
• WG-Gesucht → Best for shared flats (WG rooms).
• Immonet → Another solid option for apartments.
🇪🇸 Spain
• Idealista → Best for apartments in major cities.
• Fotocasa → Good for finding apartments outside big cities.
• Badi → Best for shared housing.
🇮🇹 Italy
• Casa.it → Best for long-term rentals.
• Subito.it → Great for affordable local listings.
• Immobiliare.it → Large database for all property types.
🇵🇹 Portugal
• Idealista → Best platform for rentals in Lisbon & Porto.
• OLX Portugal → Good for private landlords.
• Uniplaces → Student-friendly & expat housing.
🇳🇱 Netherlands
• Pararius → English-friendly, best for expats.
• Funda.nl → Best for long-term rentals.
• Kamernet → Great for student housing & shared apartments.
🇧🇪 Belgium
• Immoweb → Most popular rental platform in Belgium.
• Zimmo → Good alternative for apartments & houses.
🇦🇹 Austria
• Willhaben → Best for local listings.
• DerStandard Immobilien → Great for apartments in Vienna.
3. How to Secure a Rental in Europe as an Expat
Many European landlords require proof of income, local references, or a residency permit, which can be difficult for new arrivals. Here’s how to improve your chances of securing a rental:
✅ Documents You May Need:
📑 Proof of Income → Job contract or bank statements.
📜 ID or Passport → Required for lease agreements.
🏦 Bank Account (Local or International) → Some landlords require a European account.
💡 Tips to Secure a Rental Faster
• Start your search 1-2 months before arrival – The best listings go quickly.
• Use digital banking (Revolut, Wise) to handle deposits without a local account.
• Consider co-living spaces – Easier approval, no rental history needed.
• Avoid scams – Never send money before visiting or signing a lease.
4. Common Rental Scams & How to Avoid Them
Unfortunately, rental scams are common in major cities like Barcelona, Paris, and Berlin. Here’s how to protect yourself:
🚨 Red Flags of Rental Scams:
❌ Landlord asks for full payment upfront before lease signing.
❌ Listing seems too cheap for the area (compare with other listings).
❌ No in-person viewing allowed – Only offers “online booking.”
❌ Landlord communicates only via WhatsApp or avoids official emails.
🔹 How to Stay Safe:
✅ Use verified platforms like Idealista, HousingAnywhere, or Spotahome.
✅ Never send money via Western Union or cryptocurrency.
✅ Request a video tour or visit in person before paying anything.
5. Final Thoughts: Best Way to Find Rentals in Europe
Finding a rental in Europe as an expat can be challenging but manageable with the right tools.
• Use general rental platforms like Idealista, HousingAnywhere, or Spotahome if searching internationally.
• Use local platforms for better deals and long-term options.
• Be cautious of scams and always verify listings before paying deposits.
💡 Best Approach? Book a short-term rental via Airbnb or a serviced apartment, then find a long-term lease once you’re in the country.
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