In the past, when travel amenities were scarce and communication channels still evolving, only a select number of people would choose to venture out of their hometowns.
All that has changed now. People(especially millennials) are more open to the idea of starting a new life in fresh surroundings, whether it’s a picturesque town, a fast-paced city, or a quaint village. In this modern age, we have the technology and the conveniences to make a home anywhere we want. All we need is to load up a moving van, and the world is our oyster.
However, one of the tricky parts of moving is to find a new place to live. It can get a little challenging, as you are likely to be unaware of the real estate trends within a new setting and will not be able to broker a short-term property lease arrangement without some help. This is where we come in! The following is a guide for digital nomads just like yourself to find a short-term lease in Pakistan like a pro.
1. Begin Your Online Research Early
As soon as the decision to move has been made, you should immediately turn to the internet for help.There are all sorts of short-term leases you can find online, including subletting, vacation rentals, seasonal rentals or even corporate housing. It all comes down to what YOU are looking for.
Go through local, trustworthy online property portals such as Prop.pk or Airbnb to take a look at potential locations for your new home. You will agree that conducting preliminary online research will offer credible information about the rental market for your final destination.
You will have time to seek references, to examine your choices in detail, and to negotiate the prices. This is better than just showing up in a new area with no idea of its current market rates, any predetermined properties you might like, or the reputation of your locale.
2. Make a List of Everything You Seek in a Property
It is good to keep an open mind and consider a wide range of housing options. However, everyone has personal preferences when it comes to a home (even for a short time).
Would you be happier in a ground floor flat, or a studio apartment with a view of the city’s skyline? Would you prefer a place that is located in a posh area, or with historical significance? Is there a budget that you need to stick to, or would you prefer someplace closer to downtown but more expensive?
You may even consider a furnished apartment if you plan on moving for only a short period of time. There are all kinds of decisions you need to make, so it’s always better to have your priorities straight before making your final choice.
3. Cast a Wider Net
As stated earlier, it is always better to keep your options open. Don’t be discouraged if short-term housing is scarce or not up to your standards in your desired neighbourhood. These things can depend on different factors, including the time of the year and locality.
If you start your search early, you will have better luck with your housing options. Think about which aspects you can compromise on, and those you cannot, and proceed accordingly.
All this research will pay off when you are settled comfortably at your new home.An uncomfortable home will make yourlife miserable on a daily basis,even if you are relocating for a short time, and this is the fate you need to avoid at all costs.
4. Keep an Open Communication Line
Sometimes, due to unforeseeable circumstances, you might have to settle on a place without first having seen it with your own eyes. In that particular case, or even generally, it’s always a good practise to maintain a healthy relationship with your landlord.
Talk to him about the property, ask for pictures (be firm if you have to, but this part is vital), negotiate the costs (with respect), and casually mention why you could be the perfect tenant. After all, it could be that the landlord hasn’t met you in person either, so be upfront about your expectations and what you are willing to offer.
Try to use Skype to review the property beforehand. Inform your landlord about the expected duration of your stay, as short term leases leave more room for negotiations. Finally, if you happen to know someone who lives in the area you are moving to, you may ask them to make some inquiries about your selected property on your behalf.
In the end, onceyou are satisfied with everything, get your short-term lease arrangement in writing. No matter how trust worthy you may find someone, official documentation will offer security to all parties involved. Also, do not forget to record any damages or unusual conditions that you may find in the house, as this will help you avoid the blame for it later.