Looking for a home in Qatar? Whether you’re fresh off the plane or returning to the Qatar to work or reside here, our step-by-step guide to finding and renting accommodation has you covered.

1. Starting your search

First off, there are three main options for finding a property to rent in Qatar. You can either
use an estate agent, rent privately, or use assistance from the company you work for. 

2. Connect with a housing agency, or search online.

Qatar Living’s property section is a great place to start. Upon arriving in Qatar, your schedule is probably going to be busy with all sorts of arrangements, and this will help streamline your search.

3. Know your options.

When it comes to finding a home in Qatar, the following types are what you can expect to find on the market.

• Apartments
• Villas
• Studios

Within these categories you can find serviced accommodation. Living in serviced accommodation is similar to living in a hotel, with a number of utilities and amenities, including cleaning and even room service, already taken care of.

Villas are usually within compounds and are preferred by families for their spaciousness and location within family-friendly neighbourhoods. If you want more privacy and can afford it, you can also find standalone villas across Qatar.

4. Select your location.

Your commute to work, or dropping the kids off to school in Qatar’s notorious traffic will play a part in your daily routine, so you may want to keep it as short as possible. Think about what matters to you in terms of perks or convenience and prioritise accordingly. Be sure to consider the area around the accommodation, this will give you a better sense of everything from convenience stores and clubhouses to what your neighbours are like. 

5. Decide if you prefer short-term serviced accommodation.  

A furnished or semi-furnished apartment or villa will spare you the trouble of multiple trips to Ikea, but make sure you do the math for what saves money in the longer run.

6. Check if utilities are included.

Make sure you know what utilities are included. In The Pearl and Lusail, for example, cooling systems come at a separate cost.

To learn how to apply for electricity and water connection in Qatar, follow this link to check out our quick guide:

https://www.qatarliving.com/forum/advice-help/posts/applying-electricity-water-connection-qatar

7. Check with your landlord to see if maintenance is included.  

Once you have options picked out, try to go for a rental agreement that includes maintenance costs. Having readily available, prompt maintenance staff on hand is a plus no matter where you decide to live. If you want to personalise your space, going for a half-furnished apartment may be the better choice.

8. As you draw up your contract, keep in mind:

• The duration of your contract
• Terms and conditions for extensions
• Security deposit conditions
• Notice period
• Early vacating fees or penalties

9. When you do decide to sign a contract, have all your documents in order. 

That includes Resident Permit copies and cheques for the rent. This will streamline the process and make it more worry-free.

Your final choice will likely be influenced by whether you’re single, married, or have a family to look after and consider. Whatever the situation, don't be daunted. This is a process that many an expat and newcomer goes through.

Visit Qatar Living Properties' Facebook page and stay up-to-date on Qatar's property scene.

Image credits:

Inline image 1 - appfolio.com, 5 - Fraser Suites, 9 - NRICafe.com.