Usual flat renting conditions - help needed

some info:

expatarrivals.com/belgium/brussels/renting-a-property-in-brussels


brussels.irisnet.be/living-in-brussels/housing/the-brussels-housing-code

brussels.be/artdet.cfm?id=4098&

Happy hunting!

MurielC, thank you very much for the links, I will read carefully!
Recently I got 1 offer (furnished 1BD appt in EU are for EUR 700 with charges) and I would like to make a reservation. Since I'm still abroad (arriving in Brussels in a month), I have no possibility to visit the flat at the moment. The owner asked to pay EUR200 as a refundable security deposit and then they will send me a contract afterwards. Are these conditions usuals? I mean I would prefer to get something as guarantee before paying...

What if you don't like the apartment? How big is it? You can get cheaper than that if you are looking to save money? No I wouldn't hand over any money as a deposit, certainly not without seeing the apartment. Sorry it sounds all wrong, you should see the contract BEFORE handing over any money. Or do you wish to  GIFT 200 euro to someone you don't even know?

Look on Brussels Expats group on Facebook for short term lets.

schoolmum wrote:

Or do you wish to  GIFT 200 euro to someone you don't even know?

of course I don't, that's why I created this topic - just to get to know general conditions since I'm not very familiar with the Belgium laws. I guess I will do so - will visit some flats on my arrival and then will finally choose, even if in this case I risk to over pay (since will be willing to leave the hotel asap), but will escape any cheating.

Use airbnb.com or similar as an alternative to a hotel.

thanks again, I totally forgot airbnb.com...

yes, best short term first and then choose one you like when arrived.

A good rule when looking at rent in comparison to floor space, don't go over 1 m2 = €10 unless a very very high quality of accommodation, even in the more expensive areas.