Renting in the United States is quite different from renting in Brazil, with its own rules that can vary greatly according to the state and local laws.
So if you’re Brazilian and want to understand how renting works in the USA, check out this article.
We’ll explain in detail what the average cost is, how it works, the main types of property 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, but in May 2023, according to data from Realtor.com, the national average rent in the US was $1,739.
This represented a slight increase of $3 compared to the previous month, however, compared to May 2022, there was a drop of 0.5%
This drop marks the first time in at least three years that rents in the United States have fallen on an annual basis.
The Pandemic was crucial in the change. There was a period of rapidly rising rents as the economic crisis subsided – especially in 2021, when people returned to urban areas for face-to-face work and school. Then that downward trend returned.
For those looking to rent a property in the United States, it’s worth understanding the current market trends and considering that, although there has been a drop in prices, the scenario can still vary depending on the region.
The rental market is softening, with this downward trend expected to continue in the coming months. This is the result of an increase in the supply of real estate, including a historic amount of apartment construction.
Check out the content on: 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:
Property availability
In the US, there is a wide variety of property types available for rent, from apartments and houses to commercial properties, which offers a range of options for tenants to choose what best suits their needs.
Unified listing system
Unlike in Brazil, where each real estate agent has their own listings, all real estate agents 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 agent checks the same information.
This means that you don’t need to have 10 brokers looking for you and this is also cultural in the United States. You should stick to just one broker.
Rental contracts
The contracts in the USA vary, but generally include information such as the length of the contract, the amount of rent, maintenance rules and breach of contract policies. It is essential to read and understand all the clauses of the contract before signing;
Frequency of payments
The frequency of rent payments in the US is also a flexible factor, but it is common for tenants to pay monthly.
Make sure you understand the payment schedule when you sign the contract – you should be aware of the rules on how many monthly installments you have to pay in advance when you sign and also insurance, which is usually the value of a rental – since in the United States a guarantor is not used.
Rights and responsibilities
Tenants in the USA have specific rights and responsibilities, which can change depending on the state.
This includes keeping the property in good condition and paying the rent on time – some contracts give you a period of days off without adding anything extra to the amount, others already have extra amounts on the first day of delay.
Knowing your rights is crucial for a smooth rental experience.
Types of rental properties in the USA: check them out
In the United States, there are many different types of properties 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 choice for renting in the USA, especially in urban areas.
They vary in size, style and amenities, from one-bedroom apartments to luxury condominiums with numerous facilities.
Single-family houses
Single-family homes are independent residences designed for a single family, which do not have neighbors on both sides, as we know in Brazil.
They offer more space and privacy and are 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 house and the amenities of a condominium.
Commercial properties
For entrepreneurs and business people, there is a wide range of commercial properties available for rent, such as stores, offices, industrial warehouses and retail spaces. Contract rules vary somewhat, as it’s the company’s track record that counts.
Furnished Apartments
In addition to traditional properties, you can also find fully furnished apartments for rent.
This is a convenient option for those who want to avoid the expense and work of furnishing a new space, as well as those who want to try out a new area.
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Where to find rental properties in the USA
Finding rental properties in the United States can be easier than you might think, thanks to the diversity of resources and platforms available.
You can search through real estate websites, real estate portals, mobile apps, social networks, local real estate agents, local classifieds and newspapers and many other options.
In this context, a valuable option is to rely on expert 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 in the search for real estate in the USA, taking into account your specific needs and the particularities of each region. Find out 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 leading consultancies specializing in immigration processes to the United States and Europe, but with Okkla Realty, we have extended our services to assist in the search for real estate in the USA.
To start your search for real estate 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 a more direct contact, you can call us on WhatsApp or one of our available phone numbers.
We are here to help you achieve your goals of living or investing in the United States.