PROFFESIONAL ADVICE: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO START A HOME SEARCH?
Long term high rental season in Lithuania usually starts on May/June and lasts till late August/mid of September. Every day we receive many inquiries from international students, asking to find them a home-to-rent 2-3 months before their arrival to Lithuania. Our professionals would like to explain when the best time to start a home search is.
Situation on Lithuanian real estate rental market is constantly changing. Without a paid deposit, it is hard to guarantee that apartments, which are available now, will still be available after 2 months. Usually Landlords are interested to rent it out as soon as possible, not waiting for 2 months for their next Tenants. They might even refuse to reserve an apartment by taking a deposit payment in advance and waiting for their next Tenants for few next months. It is because they want to receive income from rental for every month. So, if you have found an apartment that you like and want to keep it till August or September, be ready to pay a deposit and a rental payment in advance even for those months that you are not here.
It is also quiet common, that apartment is announced available 1 month in advance, as Tenants are obliged by a Lease agreement to inform Landlords about their further decisions.
So, answering a question, the best time to start a home-to-rent search is 1 MONTH BEFORE starting a rent. This period will be enough to understand the process, platforms, prices, location, differences and also visit some available options before signing a Lease agreement.