Finding a Home in Mbeya
Finding a Home in Mbeya | Expat’s guide to Mbeya | Vacational Rentals in Mbeya | Accomodation in Mbeya | Expats in Mbeya | Move to Mbeya |Hotels in Mbeya | Home Stays in Mbeya |Mbeya town | Mbeya Travel Guide
People advertise properties to let on notice boards at shopping malls, in the local papers, and there’s usually a selection at www.zoomtanzania.com (which also advertises vehicles, furniture items etc for sale by expatriates leaving, amongst many other useful services and information). If you’ve got kids, you might need to look hard at the schools first, because there’s plenty of choice, and with Mbeya’s infamous traffic jams, it’s probably worth trying to live near school.
Properties vary from older houses with plenty of character (and occasionally the interesting plumbing and rat-gnawed electrics to go with it) to very modern houses, which might have a few teething problems. During the dry seasons, water can become an issue in some areas, so it’s worth checking out that there really is a reliable water supply before you move in. If things do go wrong, plumbers and electricians are plentiful, cheap and great improvisers – even if their methods might seem a little too alternative to the uninitiated.
Prices of Houses in Mbeya:
Housing can be anywhere from $300-$1,500 in Mbeya and maybe more in Dar es Salaam. In Arusha the rent seems to average $500- $1000, Moshi, $300- $800. Of course a lot of it depends on type of housing. These averages are for a typical 3 bedroom 2 bathroom, ‘normal’ type house.
What to look for:
The main thing that you want with a house is good water and electricity. There are many houses that can have problems with these two things. Also make sure that you can get internet in your area. In Dar this shouldn’t be a problem. Mbeya down town won’t be a problem but double check it, even if you are a little outside of Mbeya.
Check with the land lord on who pays for repairs. Almost every doorknob can fell off of your house doors, several pipes have may be broken, you might have a repair Man (fundi) fall through your ceiling, etc. Make sure you have a good land lord that takes any repairs/upgrades that you do off of the next rent that is due. Just make sure that you get and save receipts for everything.
If you plan to use a washer/dryer machine, you may have to get that hook up installed. Many houses are not build with this in mind. Also check to make sure that the power to the house is going to be strong enough to run them. Some houses do not get “full power”.
If you are new to Tanzania, don’t be shy ! Tanzania is a friendly place and there are lots of people that are willing to help you, just ask around. But please don’t be naive, there are also lots of people out there trying to take advantage of you and certain situations, so be careful.
Unfinished Houses:
If you see a house for rent that you like but it is unfinished, don’t count it out.
A lot of houses are unfinished but you can talk with the owner and tell them everything that you want done before you move in. They will usually be quick to get it done if they know that someone is interested in moving in. Things that you may consider adding: electric fence, screens on the windows, cabinets in the kitchen, etc.
Don’t go with the first offer:
Everything in Tanzania is negotiable, even the rent. They may start our at $1,000 usd and come down to $500 usd. You can even ask around in the neighborhood at what your neighbors are paying for their rent. People are really friendly and helpful.
You will quickly learn in TZ that negotiation is part of the culture, a way of life. From buying your vegetables, to clothes at the market. Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price, they expect this.
Rent in advance:
A lot of owners want rent in advance, sometimes up to a year. Again just talk to them and see if they can work with you. We personally do three months at a time. We also have a house contract, which states everything in writing. If your land lord doesn’t have his own contract the it wouldn’t be a bad idea to make your own up, so that you have an official agreement.
More MbeyaTravel Ideas:
Planning your trip? Whether you’re looking for things to do in Mbeya such as events and attractions, key traveller information to make your Mbeya visit run smoothly or are planning where to stay in Mwanza, you’ll find everything you need for your Mbeya holiday on Our Website. Mbeya City Travel guide has the information about latest events not to miss while you visit Mbeya – there’s always something going on, so don’t miss out on the latest exhibitions, shows and more on your trip to Mbeya.
Discover the best day trips from Mbeya or try one of the best tours in Mbeya and nearby regions. If you’re here as a family, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Mbeya with kids and find suitable accommodation such as Mbeya holiday apartments. Whether you’re looking for the best weekend breaks in Mwanza or planning a longer holiday in Tanzania, you can be sure you’ll find all the information you need. Talk to us for all your Kilimanjaro and Meru Climb, Safari and Beach time in Zanzibar!
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