< Back What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city? What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats? Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes? Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common? Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra? Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood? I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city? Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me? What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city? Consider proximity to work and schools, facilities for kids such as playgrounds and leisure centres, parking restrictions, local transport facilities and traffic congestion. ↑ Top What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats? A wide variety of housing is available in Birmingham - from flats and apartments to large executive homes in exclusive surroundings. Popular areas include Harbourne, Sutton Coldfield, Edgbaston, Lichfield and Coleshill. ↑ Top Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes? Most expats rent in the first year or two of their arrival to get a feel for what the different areas of the city are like to live in. ↑ Top Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common? You'll usually pay one month's rent plus security deposit - which is normally four to six weeks' rent. You may also have to pay an administration fee which varies, depending on the agency. You may also have to pay stamp duty, the amount depending on how much rent you will be paying. ↑ Top Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra? Gas, electric, water, telephone, internet, council tax and resident parking permit fees are payable in addition to rent. ↑ Top Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood? This depends on the location and suburb in Birmingham; however you should always take sensible precautions. ↑ Top I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city? Electric current is 220 volts. The plug is three pin. Most unfurnished properties will still have white goods (for example, fridge and washing machine) available for tenants. ↑ Top Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me? Crown Birmingham provides accommodation information for rental or purchase properties and can also arrange for temporary accommodation. Note that you are required to pay for a TV license if you have a television at home. ↑ Top IMPORTANT NOTE: Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.