The economically robust and culturally rich state in the Middle East is Qatar, which gives a great living experience for expats and Qatari citizens. This region has seen a humongous growth in expats due to the overflowing number of job opportunities open in Qatar. Even though the property market is open for expatriates, most of them prefer renting to investing in a property in Qatar. Renting is affordable and can be done seamlessly compared to purchasing a home. With the increase in the number of household units in Qatar, the rents have declined in the past few months. According to statistics, more than 60% of residential units are for rent. People hunting for apartments for rent in Qatar can effortlessly find one based on location, property type, and rental charges. The entire process of renting a home can be done smoothly if all the documents are readily available to complete the agreement.
MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE
Settling with the right property option in Qatar takes time because of the abundance of homes. Finding properties for rent in Qatar is a tiresome process that will require more research on picking the perfect neighbourhoods and the ideal home. Going through property listings and local web portals will give a clear idea when searching for rentals. Most new emigrants in the state will hire local estate agents. Brokers and licensed agents possess most of the withheld information like the intricate property details, social status of the neighbourhood, nearby amenities and more. Also, checking whether the property follows all the government norms is crucial to avoid problems in the future.
RENTING IN QATAR
Unlike other countries, renting in Qatar costs a fortune. Almost one-third of a Qatari resident’s salary is spent on renting their home. But compared to buying a property, renting is more affordable, quick and effortless. Most landowners let their homes on a yearly contract based on some terms and conditions. Properties like serviced apartments, villas, detached houses and more are available at affordable rates for renting.
INITIAL PHASE
Before beginning with the house-hunting process, people should decide what property type will suit them according to budget and location. Unfurnished homes have lesser rental values compared to semi and fully furnished homes. Selecting the property type based on the longevity of the person’s stay in Qatar is also essential. Serviced apartments are ideal for living for a short duration, while villas, flats and detached homes are excellent options for a longer time. Once the property type is decided, it becomes easier to search accordingly.
LEGAL ARRANGEMENTS
Once the property is finalized, documentation comes next in the process. Qatar ID, employee ID, employment and salary proofs, employer details are some of the documents required initially. Married couples should produce their marriage certificate, for it is illegal to live together for unmarried couples. Rental contracts are drafted for a fixed interval, after which they should be renewed. The agreement includes the duration of the contract, rental charges, landlord’s responsibilities, and other necessary conditions. People should read their contracts carefully before signing them. Breaking any clauses like bringing strangers home without informing, owning pets or smoking on the premises will not be tolerated. The chances of facing legal action are high when rules aren’t followed correctly by the renters.
RENTAL STAGE
Before renting the place, renters should pay a certain percentage of the deposit amount to the landowner. Deposit amounts will be returned back at the time of vacating the house. If the tenant causes any damage to the property, the owner will deduct the specific charges for the same and return the remaining amount. Tenants should discuss the payment methods beforehand so that the process is easier for them and the owners. Usually, rents are paid through post-dated cheques in Qatar.
TERMINATION
Rental contracts are terminated at the end of the tenant’s rental tenure. They should make sure to keep the property and the premises in a damage-free way. Minor damages can be fixed by the renter before returning the keys to the owner. It is fair to clean the floors, windows and walls completely before leaving so that the owner would be pleased enough to not return the deposit amount as a whole.
