House-hunting is exhausting. It’s okay, take a deep breath now, we’ve all been there. You’re on a quest, searching for a cozy home that doesn’t break the bank, preferably in a semi-decent location. That’s not too much to ask right? By the end of this article you will have all the tools that you need to find a lovely place to call home.
House-hunting in Bulgaria can be surprisingly easy if you understand how the system works. Let’s go through everything you need to know about finding your future humble abode – in terms that you’ll actually understand – from useful Bulgarian terminology to rental agreements.
Bulgarian house-hunting terms you need to know
Едностайни = Single bedroom. Also know as a studio apartment or a granny flat. This is usually just 1 room that includes a bed, kitchen (or kitchenette) and a separate bathroom.
Local Tip: There may not always be a stand-alone bed with this option, the sleeping arrangement is usually a pull-out couch.
Двустайни = Two rooms. This would be the equivalent of an American single bedroom with a separate living room/kitchen and possibly a utility room.
Тристайни = Two bedrooms. People from the UK, Ireland and the USA etc. When you think of a standard two-bedroom house, this is it.This consists of two bedrooms, a living room/kitchen and a utility room.
The best websites for house-hunting in Bulgaria
Imoti.bg – One of the largest real estate portals in Bulgaria.
OLX – OLX has a dedicated section for real estate listings, including rentals.
Homes.bg – A comprehensive real estate portal covering various types of properties.
Bulgarian Properties – Offers a wide range of properties for sale and rent.
Luximoti – Specializing in luxury properties, including rentals.
Bazar.bg – A classified ads platform with a section for real estate.
Mirela – Offers property listings and real estate services.
Facebook – there are a plethora of Facebook pages like Foreigners Sofia Rent / Имоти под наем в София that are very useful for finding rental properties, be wary of scams.
Your legal rights as a tenant in Bulgaria
Rental Agreements: Rental agreements should be in writing and specify details such as the rental period, rent amount, payment terms, and responsibilities of both parties. Always leave a paper trail in case you have problems in the future.
Rent Control: Bulgaria does not have rent control laws. Landlords and tenants typically negotiate rental prices.
Security Deposits: Landlords may request a security deposit, usually equivalent to one or two months’ rent. The deposit should be returned to the tenant at the end of the lease, minus any deductions for damages.
Rent Increases: Landlord’s have the right to increase the rental price with proper notice, usually in accordance with the terms specified in the rental agreement.
Termination of Lease: Both landlords and tenants have the right to terminate a lease, but specific conditions and notice periods are outlined in the rental agreement.
Tenant Rights: As a tenant, you have the right to enjoy the rented property without interference from the landlord. Landlords must respect tenant privacy and provide proper notice before entering the property. In layman’s terms, your landlord cannot drop by whenever they feel like it, and if they do, you are not obligated to let them in.
Repairs and Maintenance: Landlords are typically responsible for major repairs and maintenance, while tenants are responsible for minor repairs and day-to-day maintenance.
Example 1: a lightbulb needs changing – that’s your responsibility.
Example 2: Your washing machine is broken – that’s the landlord’s responsibility.
Utilities and Expenses: The rental agreement should clearly state which utilities and expenses are the responsibility of the tenant and which are the responsibility of the landlord. In Bulgaria, it is exceptionally rare for utilities like electricity to be included in the rental price. Sometimes building maintenance fees are included in the rental cost, be sure to ask the landlord before you move in.
Eviction Process: In case of non-payment of rent or violation of the lease terms, landlords may initiate eviction proceedings through the court.
Finally, as they say in Bulgaria “Къща къщу, камък камъче.”
“Home is home, even if it’s just a stone.”
