How to rent housing in Georgia for the long term — practical guide 🏡
Renting long-term is a smart way to settle without buying, but it still needs preparation. This guide gives clear, practical steps for finding, checking and signing a secure lease in Georgia.
1. Define your goals and budget 🎯
- Decide whether you need stable long-term housing for work, family, or as a temporary base.
- Include utilities, internet and occasional maintenance when you set a monthly budget.
2. Choose a neighborhood and must-haves 📍
- Prioritize commute, schools, shops, green spaces or quiet streets.
- In Batumi, for example, central areas are convenient while suburbs offer more peaceful living. Visit neighborhoods at different times of day.
3. Where to search — platforms and agents 🔎
- Use reliable portals and consider professional agencies to speed up the process. Start searching at https://buyhome.ge/en/search for filtered long-term listings.
- An agent can help verify documents and negotiate terms, especially if you’re new to local practices.
4. Lease types and essential clauses ✍️
- Always prefer a written lease. Important items to include:
- Exact address and condition of the property;
- Lease duration and renewal terms;
- Rent amount, payment date and preferred payment method;
- Deposit amount and refund conditions;
- Who pays utilities, internet and other services;
- Maintenance responsibilities and inventory list;
- Rules about subletting, pets and guests.
- If the lease is in Georgian, request an English translation and keep both versions.
5. Verify owner and property ✅
- Ask the owner to show property documents and ID.
- Take time to inspect plumbing, heating/air conditioning, windows and appliances. Take photos on move-in.
- Create an inventory checklist signed by both parties to protect your deposit.
6. Deposits, payments and receipts 💳
- Ensure the deposit return process is written in the lease.
- Agree whether utilities are included or billed separately and get meter readings at move-in.
- Prefer bank transfers or documented payments to avoid disputes.
7. Registration and legal notes 📌
- For longer stays, registration of your address may be required. Check current practices with the landlord or local authorities.
- Avoid signing clauses that impose unclear fines or limit basic tenant rights without explanation.
8. Repairs, early termination and force majeure 🔧
- Clarify who arranges and pays for repairs and how urgent issues are handled.
- Add a reasonable early termination clause with notice period to avoid heavy penalties.
9. Move-in checklist ✅
- Sign two copies of the lease and keep one.
- Record the apartment’s condition with photos or video.
- Collect contacts for the landlord, property manager and utility providers.
10. Practical tips and negotiation 💡
- Ask for a discount if you pay several months in advance.
- Negotiate small fixes before signing — landlords often accept minor concessions to close a deal.
- Keep copies of all payments and written communications.
If you prefer professional help, BuyHome can assist with property search, lease review and negotiations. Browse current listings at https://buyhome.ge/en or contact our team for personal support.
We’re here to help you find and secure the right long-term rental in Georgia — get in touch and we’ll guide you step by step! 📩