How to find a villa to rent in Casablanca?

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Introduction

Morocco, with its mild climate, cultural wealth and economic dynamism, attracts more and more expatriates every year. Casablanca, as the economic center of the country, is a destination of choice for many expatriates. However, the task of finding a villa to rent in Casablanca can seem complex for those who are not familiar with the local real estate market. This article aims to provide detailed advice and valuable information to make your search easier.

Understanding the local real estate market

Preferred residential areas

Casablanca is a multi-faceted city, with varied residential areas. Quiet, green residential neighborhoods such as Anfa and California are often sought after by expatriates for their tranquility and proximity to international schools and shopping centers. However, prices can be high. Conversely, neighborhoods such as Sidi Maarouf or Bourgogne offer more affordable housing options, although often less spacious. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each neighborhood based on your personal and family needs.

Understanding prices

The prices for rent a villa in Casablanca vary considerably depending on the neighborhood and the characteristics of the property. For a villa in popular neighborhoods like Anfa or California, rents can easily reach 20,000 to 30,000 DH per month, while in more affordable neighborhoods, prices can drop to 10,000 DH. It is advisable to set a realistic budget and stick to it when looking for your home. Don't forget to take into account additional charges such as condominium management fees, electricity and water bills, and possibly security costs.

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Define your search criteria

Type of villa

Whether you are looking for a modern villa with all the amenities or a traditional Moroccan home, the choice is vast in Casablanca. Make sure you clearly define your search criteria in terms of number of bedrooms, bathrooms, living space and garden, parking, and specific features like a pool or fireplace. For example, a 3-bedroom villa with a garden in Anfa can be rented for around 18,000 DH per month, while a larger villa with a pool in the same neighborhood can cost 25,000 DH or more.

Duration of the rental

The length of the rental is also an important factor to consider. Most rental contracts in Morocco are for one year renewable, but it is possible to negotiate a shorter or longer term depending on your needs. Note that for shorter periods of time, landlords may charge higher rent to compensate for the potential vacation period. For example, for a 6-month rental, expect to pay 10-20% more than the annual rate.

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Search for your villa

Use a real estate agency

Using a real estate agency can be an effective solution to find a villa for rent in Casablanca. Agencies like Feel Home specialize in supporting expatriates in their real estate search. They have a good knowledge of the market and a vast network of contacts, which can save you a lot of time. Remember that Moroccan real estate agencies generally charge the equivalent of one month's rent for their services.

Use online platforms

Many online platforms such as Mubawab or Avito offer a wide variety of properties for rent in Casablanca. These sites allow you to filter results according to your search criteria, get photos and property details, and contact owners or agents directly. However, be vigilant and always check the information provided. Some ads may be outdated or misleading.

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Conclude the rental

Negotiate the rental contract

Once you have found the villa of your dreams, it is time to negotiate the rental contract. Make sure all important details are included, such as the length of the rental, the rent amount, the charges included, the terms of renewal and cancellation, and the breakdown of repairs and maintenance. In Morocco, the rental contract must be registered with the tax authorities, which makes it possible to formalize the agreement and make it legally binding.

Take stock of the situation

The inventory is a crucial step when taking possession of your new villa. It allows the condition of the property to be documented at the beginning of the rental and serves as a reference for any future disputes regarding damage. Be sure to inspect the villa thoroughly, take photos, and note any existing flaws. It is recommended to do this inventory in the presence of the owner or real estate agent.

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Conclusion

Find a villa for rent in Casablanca is a task that may seem complex, but with a good understanding of the market, a clear definition of your criteria and a proactive approach, you can find the home of your dreams. Do not hesitate to ask for the help of local experts to assist you in this adventure. Good luck with your search!

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