Hi All,

I was just wondering how people normally approach renting an apartment within AD! I know to go through a agent, make sure they don't tell you lies, etc etc. but with reference to paying with cheques do they accept monthly?! Or is it usually still 2-3. With alot of property on the market thought there might be way for negotiating. Also I know it's possible in Dubai, but has anyone heard of a break clause in AD? Only reason I ask is I don't want to be left with a apartment to pay if for example my job was to fall through! I can't see this happening, but you never know!!


Thanks

Colin

No.1 priority. Make sure you go and have a look at apartments during the call to prayer! You don't want to sign on the dotted line only to find you have a mosque right round the corner. Agents are sneaky like that and they'll show you a place when it's all nice and quiet.

ad is still a world unto itself, not like dubai where multiple cheques have been the norm for years, count on it being 1 and if you are lucky you may get 2 or 3, but not monthly, if you want monthly you will have to go for an hotel apartment which is more money usually. and yes everyone has to take the risk that you pay the whole rent upfront and whose not to say that you may be made redundant at anytime, if you are a single guy you wont be paying out such a hefty sum as a family in a villa etc. there is no break clause in ad, you will find that most will not entertain it, there is no harm in asking but doubt it. if you can prove you are made redundant the law states that they should only charge you a penatly of 2 months and get the rest back, but unfortunately once they have your years money its very difficult to get it back. thats the risk you take living here. choose your landlord wisely, even if you pay a little bit more its sometimes worth it.

and cant you go and look around yourself, or look on google, they are easier enough to spot. and watch out they will turn them up soon as well.

Cheers Busybee,

I thought as much on the cheque front! Like you said everyone runs the risk of getting screwed Due to the way the system works ( or doesn't). I'm sure all will be cool I can stay in company accommodation for first 3 months to put money aside before making the decision.

Colin

Thanks Jam,

Appreciate the advice about the mosques. I'm sure over the coming months with Ramadan I will be hearing them slightly louder. But will make sure I'm not living right next to it. I'm keen on the sun tower on Reem Island so perhaps will need to put up more with the sound of construction