Urban Keys step-by-step guide to renting

Step 1 – Register your interest to rent

The first step to finding the right property in Cyprus is to register with Urban Keys, a reputable estate agent that also has one of Cyprus' largest rental property inventory, therefore a lot more options to choose from. You can either call us on +357 22 27 00 19, email us here or visit our office where you can discuss your property requirements with one of our local agents.

Once we have a clear understanding of your requirements you will receive a selection of properties that match your criteria. We can also keep you constantly up-to-date via email.

We will match your profile and criteria with what properties are most suitable currently (or even soon-to-be) in the market, as well as keep you posted with live e-mail alerts and SMS messaging (optional).

Or simply search for properties to rent in Cyprus and enquire directly about a property you like.

Step 2 – Optional rental period; short term rentals or long term

Are you looking for short term or long term rental? Each has its pros and cons, and slightly different conditions.

Long term rentals are somewhat cheaper and better value, especially extra long term contracts of two years and more. So if you are certain you like a given property and know for sure you are going to stay there, then it certainly gives you some negotiating power to lower the asking price. But be aware that some landlords actually insist on two-year contracts so you might not have this bargaining power. One year contract terms are standard in Cyprus. Such rentals can be either furnished or unfurnished. Of course rental period, terms and conditions for commercial and industrial property differ considerably.

Short term rentals are ideal if you need a temporary residential solution in Cyprus, such as if you are renovating or in the process of building a house. They provide greater flexibility and more leeway. They are also a good alternative to long term travellers and workers in Cyprus, much better than staying in a hotel or serviced apartment – more affordable, larger in size and a lot more privacy. Short term rentals are usually fully furnished and tend to be slightly higher in price per month. In some cases, cheaper short term rental options may be sourced.

Step 3 – Consider managed rental property for peace-of-mind and ease; 24/7 helpline

An increasing number of tenants in Cyprus are now opting to rent fully managed properties. No doubt, dealing with a professional and independent estate agent is a lot more reassuring and indeed efficient. You deal directly with Urban Keys and not the landlord.

Urban Keys managed properties are assigned a dedicated Property Manager to handle any issues. Our team ensures each managed property is fully compliant with all safety regulations (i.e. Gas Safety, Electrical Safety and Furniture and Furnishings acts), and that the property is fully functional via our dedicated contractors.

24/7 rental helpline: if something ever goes wrong, simply call us any day any time and we'll fix it. Look out for the managed property icon in your search results or contact Urban Keys to enquire about a managed rental property in Cyprus.

Step 4 – Key to successful viewings when looking to rent in Cyprus

To find the best available rental property in the Cyprus market there are 3 simple and perhaps obvious criteria:

• Get in early. When you see something you like, don't wait around. Close the deal as soon as possible, otherwise it will be off the market very soon. Think about it, if you liked it because it was immaculate, then surely others did also.
• See as many properties as possible. The more properties you see, the more options you have to choose from; that's basic mathematics. Also, it puts you in a very good position to judge and compare each rental property based on quality, location, age, furniture, and of course price. It might even give you some bargaining power.
• Trust your estate agent: Rely on the professional advice and direction of your dedicated estate agent. We have years of experience in the market and in dealing with landlords, so we are able to provide solid advice. We are here to help you and ensure you are satisfied, acting as your representative. We do not prioritise or favour any properties, but consider them all on an equal basis. So we want you to choose the property that is best suited to you.

Remember, Urban Keys will accompany you to all your rental viewings and be on hand to provide any support and advice where necessary, even after the viewings.

Step 5 – Making an offer to rent the property

Once you have identified a suitable property you will need to make an offer, in other words, that you are interested. Your Urban Keys estate agent will help guide you through this process. Keep in mind that when we say offer, we mean offer to rent it out and not an offer on price. Rental properties have very little leeway in price negotiation.

You will be required to complete an application for tenancy where you will need to provide full details, employment condition or guarantor, as well as references, i.e. previous landlords. You may also need to state any special conditions of the offer. We will then communicate this offer to the landlord.

Special note: landlords are very impressed if you attend property viewings well prepared, with references and at least an indication of most required paper work. Although you may not need to provide this, they will be much more likely to accept your offer in the long run.

Step 6 – Your rental offer is accepted by the landlord

If your offer to rent is accepted by the landlord we will inform you as soon as possible. Regardless of whether your property is managed, we will then organise the following:

• Collect references that you have provided
• Arrange signing of the Tenancy Agreement
• Collect your moving in payment which consist of the first month rent in advance + deposit (usually to the value of one month's rent)
• Carry out your check-in and inventory

Ready to rent with Urban Keys: Urban Keys office hours are open longer, made to be convenient for rental viewings after work and on weekends. Because we know all-too well that greater flexibility and accessibility is needed to suit all types of lifestyles. This in turn, encourages more viewings and happier clientele. Our offices are open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday and 9am-5pm Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. Meanwhile, our phone lines are opened 8am-8pm, 7 days a week.