"Whadyamean there's no kitchen sink?" and other frequently asked questions about apartment hunting in Rome...and a few ideas on coping, including our own listing of available apartments.
The Hunt is On
Apartment hunting in Rome is like no other experience in the city. There are several options available and the "right" one to use depends on your command of the Italian language.
  • The English-language magazine Wanted in Rome has a vast array of apartments listed, but most of them are through agencies.
  • The newspaper guide Porta Portese has a great selection of listings. This newspaper is available on Fridays and can be picked up (L1.500) at most news agents.
  • Solo Casa also provides apartment listings in the back of their real estate magazine.
  • There are several agencies who will be more than happy to speak for you. Expect to pay 10 percent of the total lease agreement (around one month rent) to the agency for their trouble.
  • Professional Connection Most large companies in Rome that employ foreigners, including embassies and the United Nations' organizations, have designated areas where apartments are posted, whether it is through an online computer network or on a bulletin board.
Definitions
Of course these vary, but generally-speaking:
  • Unfurnished means literally without furniture -- no kitchen cupboards, no sink, nothing.
  • Semi-furnished apartments generally have the kitchen cupboards and bathroom fixtures and potentially a few "odd" pieces of furniture.
  • Furnished flats tend to have everything including bedding, dishes and sometimes towels.
The Costs Involved
An important aspect of negotiating the lease is to make sure you're aware of all costs -- those visible and those not so visible.
  • The Deposit - For most apartments, you can expect to give a two to three month deposit at the signing of the lease. By law this should be returned to you with interest at the end of your rental period minus expenses and damages. In some cases, a landlord will forgo the deposit with proof of renter's insurance.
  • Condominium - This semi-confusing "fee" is to cover expenses of central heating, cleaning and general maintenance in the foyer and halls of the apartment building. This also covers the care for the plants that may be in the courtyard and also for the electricity that is used for lights in hallways. If your landlord desires, he or she may send you a bill for the condo charge every month or so -- this is dangerous because you could be taken by surprise with a major repair. It is acceptable with most landlords to pay a set fee each month, which can range from a mere £30.000 to £250.000 or more on top of your rent payment.
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