As an owner of a property for rent, you have certainly already asked yourself this question: what is the most opportune time to rent out my apartment? It is indeed not always easy to know when to embark on this venture, especially in a European capital.
Christopher Byl, Manager of the Rental Department, offers his advice for a successful letting in Etterbeek and the surrounding areas.
Key Periods
“Generally, tenants
tend to plan ahead with their
families in mind. Searches therefore begin when warmer weather returns, so they can
move in during the summer holidays and be ready for the start of the school year.
This also applies to student and young
professional flatshares.” he explains.
It is certain that a property will also be rented outside the summer season, but the asking rent will always impact the ease of finding tenants. “As more tenants look for accommodation in spring, landlords can afford to set a higher rent and still find prospective tenants. Conversely, during colder seasons, they will need to be willing to slightly adjust their price to avoid rental vacancies.”
Studios and One-Bedroom Apartments
The summer months are therefore perfect if you own a one-bedroom apartment or a studio in Etterbeek. This would allow several weeks before the start of the school year to organize viewings in collaboration with your real estate agent, and thus avoid hasty decisions regarding the choice of tenant(s).
Due to their small size and because they are primarily sought after by single individuals or couples, studios and one-bedroom apartments are still easily rented throughout the year. This is also the type of property whose rent will vary the least depending on the season.
Apartments with 2 Bedrooms or More
These properties primarily attract young couples who are already parents or expatriate families, who typically begin their housing search around mid-May. “It is from this period that we start receiving many requests to rent apartments with 2 bedrooms or more,” adds our rental specialist.
Houses and Villas
If you own a house for rent in Brussels, we advise you to put it up for rent from the beginning of spring, so that all administrative formalities, viewings, and moving are completed before the September school year begins. You will also be able to take aesthetically pleasing photos of your interior as well as the outdoor spaces (garden, terrace, etc.). The tenant will find it easier to envision themselves in the property with up-to-date photos that are relevant to the season.
Expatriates
“Being located near the European Quarter, we regularly rent to expatriates and workers who are looking for an apartment close to their workplace,” adds Christopher Byl. There is, however, a type of tenant who cares very little about the seasons: the expatriate. Arriving alone in Brussels for a specific assignment, they will not truly consider the start of the school year or holidays when moving in. They will therefore be attracted to mid-year rentals or during quieter periods.
Do You Have an Apartment or a House to Rent in Brussels?
Contact our Rental team at 02 735 95 18 to find tenants quickly!