Renting in the United States is quite different from Brazil, with its own rules that can vary greatly according to the State and local laws.
Therefore, if you are Brazilian and want to understand how renting works in the USA, check out this text.
We will explain in detail what the average cost is, how it works, the main types of properties to rent and much more.
What is the average rent in the United States?
The rental market in the United States is undergoing significant changes, however, in May 2023, according to data from Realtor.com, the national average rent in the US was 1TP4Q1,739.
This represented a slight increase of 1TP4Q3 compared to the previous month, however, compared to May 2022, there was a decrease of 0.5%
This drop marks the first time in at least three years that rents in the United States have seen an annual decline.
The Pandemic was crucial in the change. There was a period of rapid increases in rents as the crisis situation eased — especially in 2021 as people returned to urban areas for in-person work and school. So, this downward trend returned.
For those looking to rent a property in the United States, it is worth understanding current market trends and considering that, although there is a drop in prices, the scenario may still vary according to the region.
The rental market is softening, with predictions that this downward trend will continue in the coming months. This is a result of the increase in housing supply, including a historic amount of apartment construction.
Read too: Living in the United States: everything you need to know
Renting in the United States: how does it work?
To understand how it works, we need to consider the following aspects:
Availability of properties
In the US, there is a wide variety of property types available for rent, from apartments and houses to commercial properties, offering a range of options for tenants to choose what best suits their needs.
Unified listing system
Unlike Brazil, where each real estate agency has its own listings, all real estate agencies in the US have access to a unified system that lists all available properties, which makes the search process more transparent, as any broker or real estate agency checks the same information.
This means that you don't need to have 10 agents looking for the property for you and this is also cultural in the United States. You should stay loyal to only one broker.
Rental contracts
The contracts for rental properties in the USA vary, but generally include information such as the length of the contract, the rental amount, maintenance rules and break-of-contract policies. It is essential to read and understand all clauses of the contract before signing;
Payment frequency
The frequency of rent payments in the US is a flexible factor as well, but it is common for tenants to pay monthly.
Make sure you understand the payment schedule when signing the contract — you must be aware of the rules regarding how many monthly payments in advance you must pay when signing and also insurance which is normally the value of a rental — as it is not used in the United States the guarantor.
Rights and responsibilities
Tenants in the US have specific rights and responsibilities, which may change depending on the state.
This includes keeping the property in good condition and paying the rent on time — in some contracts you have a period of days of forgiveness without adding anything extra to the value, others already have extra values on the first day of delay.
Knowing your rights is crucial to a smooth rental experience.
Types of properties for rent in the USA: check it out
In the United States, there is a diversity of property types available for rent, offering options to meet the diverse needs and preferences of tenants.
Here are some of the main types of rental properties in the USA:
Apartments
Apartments are a common rental choice in the US, especially in urban areas.
They range in size, style and amenities, from one-bedroom apartments to luxury condominiums with a variety of amenities.
Single Family Homes
Single-family houses are independent residences designed for a single family, which do not have neighbors on either side, as we know in Brazil.
They offer more space and privacy, making them ideal for families or those who prefer a quieter environment.
Condominium Houses
Condominium homes are individual units located in planned communities where residents share common spaces and responsibilities. Known in Brazil as semi-detached houses within a condominium.
They are an option for those looking for a balance between the privacy of a home and the amenities of a condominium.
Commercial Properties
For entrepreneurs and business owners, there is a wide range of commercial properties available for rent, such as shops, offices, industrial warehouses and retail spaces. Contract rules vary slightly, as what counts is the company's history.
Furnished Apartments
In addition to traditional properties, it is possible to find fully furnished apartments for rent.
This is a convenient option for those who want to avoid the expense and hassle of furnishing a new space, as well as those who want to test a new region.
Read too: Green Card Interview: Learn how the process works
Where to find rental properties in the USA
Finding rental properties in the United States can be an easier task than you might think, thanks to the diversity of resources and platforms available.
It is possible to do a search through real estate websites, property portals, mobile applications, social networks, local real estate agencies, classifieds and local newspapers and several other options.
In this context, a valuable option is to rely on specialized advice that understands both Brazilian culture and the complexities of the US real estate market.
Okkla Realty, part of the D4U Immigration group, offers personalized assistance when searching for properties in the USA, considering your specific needs and the particularities of each region. Understand more below:
Rent a property in the USA with the help of Okkla Realty and D4U Immigration
D4U Immigration is already recognized as one of the main consultancies specializing in immigration processes for the United States and Europe, but, with Okkla Realty, we have extended our services to assist in the search for properties in the USA.
To start your search for properties in the United States with the security of experienced professionals, contact us through our service channels.
We are present on the main social networks. There you can send us a direct message.
If you prefer more direct contact, you can call us on WhatsApp or call one of our available phone numbers.
We are here to help you achieve your goals of living or investing in the United States.
Trust Okkla Realty and D4U Immigration to make your US property search a smooth and successful experience.
