Accommodation in London?

Question

My friend and his wife (both Indians) will go to London in a week. Although his wife will be working in Canary Wharf, my friend (MBA + Engineer + 2 years' experience) will have to look for a job there.

Since they have never been to London earlier, please help them by providing answers to the questions below.

1. Which will be the best suited locality for their accommodation, considering their budget for this is approx GBP 500-600 per month? They will look for a furnished or a semi-furnished apartment in a locality which will be convenient for his wife as well as him for job-search.

2. Is there any short term rental agreements in London? I found that in most cases it is for six months.

3. Do they have to pay any advance rental to the land lord or agency? If yes, how much?

4. To get an apartment on rent, what all documents are needed?

5. Do they need to pay any commission to the agent?

6. Can you suggest some web sites or newspapers, which can be helpful in finding accommodatio

Answer 1

hello,

me &my husband jst came here 20 days ago..

same probs with us also as with ur frnd.

well i will suggest HOUNSLOW area is good for inidans..it is 3 stop after a heathrow airport..

in studio u will have to share with someone(not preferable)..

prior we were thinking when in india that we will get some good rental apt near 500 to 600 pounds,but we were wrong..

infact we get a nice 1BHK in 870pounds per month a bit costly but including all taxes!and with a garden at back and lots of punjabies and indians r here..safe area.

and hounslow tube station is near so it has good frequency to go for job in good area..

gumtree and rightmove and finaproperty sites may b useful

near hounslow tube station there is an agent office named:LOMABORD AGENT for a rental home in good area..

yes 6 moths aggrement is there for  any contract minimum,but in that time u cn hv search for another good option!

i think this is useful to u..

Answer 2

1- Won't find anything for that price, maybe if Hackney (crime, drugs, etc) if they're lucky. Think more in the 800-1000 for a one double bedroom flat in a ok neighbourhood.

2- 6 months= minimum.

3- 1 and a half month of deposit + first month.

4- Everything you can, including passport, visa, recommendation letters, diplomas, proof of funds (bank), etc.

5- No but the price is higher because it's an agent.

6- craigslit, gumtree.

I hope this helps.