< 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? When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. You might want to find a place close to work, school, shops, and medical facilities and most importantly an area that is secure and safe. The most important thing to take into account is the lifestyle that you and your family would like to lead. ↑ Top What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats? Expatriates seem to gravitate to areas like Matthews, Weddington and Pineville in North Carolina, and Tega Cay and Fort Mill in South Carolina. Charlotte is located only 20 miles north of the North Carolina and South Carolina states' border so it is common for people to live South Carolina and commute to Charlotte on a daily basis. ↑ Top Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes? Most expatriates tend to rent for the first year or two. Some will look into purchasing once they established a credit history (this can take months or years). However, most expatriates in the area rent because they are only on assignment for a temporary period of time (one to two years) with the intent to return to their country of origin. ↑ 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? In order to rent, you'll be required by most places to pay the equivalent of the first and last month's rent, plus a security deposit equivalent to one month's rent. If you have pets, many places require a pet deposit for each. Security deposits are generally returned once your lease ends and if residence is in good condition at the time you leave. ↑ Top Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra? This depends on where you live and your landlord. In some cases, full or partial utilities are included and in others they are totally excluded. We recommended that you check with your local real estate agent or landlord prior to moving in. ↑ Top Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood? As in most cities, it is important to take certain precautions to secure your place of residence. It is also recommended that you check local police reports before deciding on an area to live. These reports provide factual information on the types of crime committed in a particular area and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor in where you decide to live. We advise you to check with friends, colleagues or your real estate professional prior to making that decision. ↑ Top I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city? The electric current in the United States is 110 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 60. Do note: It is not recommended that you bring appliances from overseas. Although there are converters available, the appliance will most likely not function properly. Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in the U.S.: Type A - Flat blade attachment plug Type B - Flat blades with round grounding pin ↑ Top Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me? If you have further questions please contact Crown Washington DC for assistance. ↑ 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.