If you have decided to start an independent life, or to change the apartment you are currently in, searching for an apartment is the first step. Finding an apartment in most cases is not an easy and simple process, many things must match, first of all, your wishes with your possibilities. First you have to be clear with yourself – what is it that you want, which location do you like and which one can you afford? The offer of apartments is large, but is your ideal apartment hidden among them and how can you find the cheapest and best apartment possible?
Real estate prices have risen drastically in recent times and this is really creating problems for those looking for apartments. Currently, there is a wide range of apartments for rent, for example, the owner is looking for a 37 m2 apartment in Telep 330 euros per month with the fact that one rent is given in advance as a deposit, for a 43 m2 apartment in the center of Novi Sad it is necessary to set aside an average of approx. 450 euros, and on the Boulevard for an apartment of 81 m2, the monthly rent is 1200 euros.
Keep in mind that the time of year when you are looking for an apartment is also important, rents are usually higher in the fall because that’s when a lot of people come, primarily students who have to find suitable accommodation. the biggest. If you are able, look for an apartment in the summer because then there are the fewest people who need an apartment for a long period of time.
Advertisements – a classic way of searching for an apartment
Advertisements – a classic way of searching for an apartment Today, ads can be found literally everywhere, on the Internet, in newspapers, bulletin boards, and any other places where an ad can be pasted. In addition to browsing the ads, you can place an ad stating exactly what you need and for what price. Please note that the apartments in the ads are usually embellished and are not the actual condition of the apartment. However, the first step is the ad, and the second is viewing the condition and possibly negotiating.
Agency – advantages and disadvantages
If you are not a fan of ads, you can contact one of the real estate agencies strong. The agency has a large base of various apartments and there is a high probability that you will find something for yourself. But, if you want to get by as cheaply as possible, keep in mind that the agency takes a commission, usually around 50% of the rent. The advantages of the agency are that you don’t have much to do with searching for apartments, it’s up to you to say what you need, determine the amount you’re ready to spend on a monthly basis and wait for a call from a real estate agent. However, even in this case, the search can be prolonged because it may happen that you do not like the apartment or that it simply does not meet your criteria. Take a look at some of the agencies operating in Novi Sad, find out about the prices of their services and calculate whether it’s worth it or not.
Help from a friend
A good way to find a cheap apartment can be a friend’s recommendation. With us, someone always knows someone who knows someone and that someone knows who you can turn to. In this way, you can get an apartment at a lower price and there is a greater chance that you will not have problems with the owner of the apartment because you both have received recommendations. In addition to the mentioned advantages, you will save on the time you would have lost on ads, and on the money you would have given to the agency. However, this way of looking for an apartment can be a double-edged sword. In case of possible disagreements with the landlord, you can argue with the person who recommended the apartment to you, so you have to think in advance who you will turn to and be aware of everything that can arise from that.
Are you ready to live together with roommates?
There is an option to share the apartment with roommates strong. If you are ready to live together, this is an excellent option because all costs are divided into two parts, and maybe more, if you decide to live with several people. As nice as it sounds, make sure you get along with those people before you take this step. A best friend does not mean that he will be a best roommate. You must be aware that living together is something completely different from the previous association with that person. It would be best to agree at the beginning about the division of debt, payment methods and other things, for example who will clean on which days or how you will fill the refrigerator, etc.
Get away from the city center
Apartments outside the city center are always cheaper, so consider that option as well. All parts of Novi Sad are connected to the center by city buses, so this should not be a problem for you. See the offer of apartments in areas such as Novo Naselje, Telep, Liman or Sajam. If you are not dependent on the center, try to find an apartment in one of those locations, it is much quieter and you have more freedom. The center is definitely more attractive because everything is at your fingertips, shopping centers, kindergartens, schools, hospitals and more. But, keep in mind that the center is crowded every day, that you will fight for every free parking space and that you will often not be able to sleep because of the noise.
Agree and negotiate
Try to negotiate with the landlord. Every price can be adjusted, terms can be refined and changed, so try to negotiate and get better terms for yourself. It is best to agree on all the details at the beginning and take a good look at the condition of the apartment. Important items that you should pay attention to and agree on at the beginning are the amount of the deposit (if the landlord asks for a deposit), the length of the notice period, whether bringing guests is allowed, whether all previous bills have been settled (it is best to ask for a confirmation so that you don’t have to later problems), agree on how you will pay the rent – whether you will pay to the account or by hand, whether you will be registered and similar. Renting apartments illegally is still popular in our country, it is still a cheaper option for everyone, so it is important to agree on everything in advance and ask about everything. Ideally, you should bring someone else with you as a silent witness, because two heads are smarter than one. Then, try to assess the condition of the apartment, what kind of carpentry, floors, furniture – if it is furnished. In short, if the condition of the apartment justifies the price that is being asked for it, that is where you have the most room for possible price correction.
Finding an apartment is not something that can be solved in a day, especially if you are looking for a good apartment for little money, so arm yourself with patience and search in all the ways mentioned above or in some other ways, if you think of them.
