How to Rent a Furnished Flat in Dhaka: A Step-by-Step Guide

Renting a furnished flat in Dhaka can be an excellent choice for those who need a quick and hassle-free move into a ready-to-live space. Whether you are a professional, a student, or an expatriate, renting a furnished flat provides comfort and convenience without the stress of setting up furniture and appliances. This guide will walk you through the process of renting a furnished flat in Dhaka, helping you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Why Choose a Furnished Flat in Dhaka?

Before diving into the steps of renting a furnished flat, it’s important to understand why renting a furnished flat in Dhaka can be a great option:

• Convenience: Furnished flats come with essential furniture, like beds, sofas, tables, and kitchen appliances, saving you time and money on furniture purchases.
• Quick Move-In: Since the flat is already furnished, you can move in immediately, without waiting for furniture to arrive or assemble.
• Cost-Effective for Short-Term Stays: Furnished flats are ideal for expatriates, business professionals, or students staying for a short time. They offer flexibility without the long-term commitment of buying furniture.
• Minimal Setup: You can focus more on settling into your new life in Dhaka and less on the logistics of moving in.

1. Set Your Budget

The first step in renting a furnished flat is to define your budget. Rent prices for furnished flats in Dhaka can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities. Here are some key points to consider:

• Average Rent Prices: Rent for a furnished apartment for rent in Dhaka can range from BDT 25,000 to BDT 60,000 per month for a 1-2 bedroom apartment. However, high-end areas like Gulshan or Banani may have flats priced upwards of BDT 80,000 or more.
• Additional Costs: Besides the monthly rent, remember to account for utility bills, internet charges, and any maintenance fees. Some flats may include these costs in the rent, but it’s important to confirm this upfront.

2. Choose the Right Location

Location is a critical factor when renting a flat in Dhaka. Consider the following popular areas that offer a range of furnished flats:

• Gulshan: A posh area with luxury furnished apartments. Ideal for expatriates, diplomats, and high-level business professionals.
• Banani: Known for its vibrant business environment, Banani offers a variety of furnished apartments, often popular among young professionals and entrepreneurs.
• Dhanmondi: A well-established residential area with a mix of furnished and unfurnished apartments. Dhanmondi is known for its parks, markets, and educational institutions.
• Bashundhara: A newer, quieter area with modern residential complexes, including furnished flats. Great for families or those looking for a peaceful atmosphere.
• Mohakhali: A more affordable area with various furnished apartment options. Close to offices and educational institutions, making it suitable for professionals and students.

3. Search for Furnished Flats

With your budget and location set, you can begin searching for available furnished flats. Here are the top ways to find a furnished flat for rent in Dhaka:

• Property Websites: Websites like Rents Corporation, Bproperty, and Bikroy offer detailed listings of available flats for rent. These platforms allow you to filter search results based on location, price, and whether the flat is furnished or not.
• Real Estate Agents: If you’re new to Dhaka or prefer personalized assistance, working with a local real estate agent can help you find suitable furnished flats that meet your needs.
• Social Media Groups: Many Facebook groups and WhatsApp communities dedicated to property rentals in Dhaka post about available flats for rent. These can be good places to find listings from landlords directly.

4. Inspect the Flat

Once you’ve shortlisted a few furnished flats, the next step is to schedule an inspection. This is an important part of the process to ensure the flat meets your needs and is in good condition. Here’s what to check:

• Furniture and Appliances: Inspect the quality and condition of the furniture (e.g., beds, sofas, tables) and appliances (e.g., air conditioner, refrigerator, washing machine). Ensure that everything is functional and comfortable.
• Space and Layout: Assess the size and layout of the flat. Make sure the rooms are spacious enough for your needs and the overall design is functional.
• Condition of the Property: Look for any signs of damage such as cracks, leaks, or mold. Check that everything is well-maintained.
• Security Features: Ensure the flat has adequate security features like secure entry, CCTV, security guards, and an intercom system.
• Surrounding Area: Take a walk around the neighborhood to check the local amenities such as markets, public transport, schools, and hospitals.

5. Negotiate Rent and Lease Terms

Once you’ve found a suitable flat, it’s time to discuss the rent and lease terms with the landlord. Here’s what you should focus on:

• Rent: Confirm the rent amount and payment terms. Ensure that the rent is within your budget and aligns with what you saw in the listing.
• Security Deposit: The landlord will likely require a security deposit, which is usually equivalent to one or two months’ rent. Make sure you understand the conditions for its refund.
• Lease Duration: Standard leases in Dhaka are usually one year, but you may be able to negotiate a shorter lease term if needed. Ask about the process for renewing or terminating the lease early.
• Additional Costs: Confirm which utilities and services are included in the rent (e.g., electricity, water, internet, cable) and which you will be responsible for. Also, clarify who is responsible for maintenance and repairs.
• Furniture Maintenance: Make sure you know who is responsible for maintaining or replacing furniture and appliances if they break or wear out.

6. Review and Sign the Lease Agreement

Once you’ve agreed on the terms, the next step is to sign the lease agreement. Ensure that the lease includes the following:

• Rental Amount and Payment Schedule: The rent amount, due date, and payment methods.
• Security Deposit: The amount of the deposit and the conditions for its return.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the flat’s furniture and appliances.
• Duration of Lease: The start and end dates of the lease, including any clauses for renewing or terminating the agreement.
• House Rules: Any additional rules regarding guests, noise, or alterations to the property.

7. Move In

Once the lease is signed, you’re ready to move in! Before moving in, do a final walkthrough of the apartment to ensure that everything is in working order and that there are no issues left unaddressed. Afterward, you can settle into your new home in Dhaka, knowing that the essentials are already in place.

Conclusion

Renting a furnished flat in Dhaka offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for those looking to avoid the hassle of buying and assembling furniture. By following these steps—setting your budget, choosing the right location, inspecting the flat, negotiating the lease, and reviewing the terms—you can secure a comfortable living space with minimal effort.

For more information on available furnished flats, you can visit property websites like Rents Corporation, Bproperty, or Bikroy, or contact a local real estate agent to assist you in finding the perfect furnished flat for rent in Dhaka.