Milan Accommodation

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Generally, the main factors to consider when looking for a residence in Milan are:

  • commuting time to your place of work and/or children's schools
  • budget, since newcomers are often surprised at the high housing costs in Milan

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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Expat communities are mainly in the outer suburbs of Milan, close to the international schools. Typical housing in these areas includes terraced or detached villas in small residential communities, generally protected by a fence and a security guard. Many of these residential communities have common amenities, such as tennis courts and swimming pools. Apartment buildings are also typical in these areas. Many expats find the housing in Milan small by their standards. Living downtown is generally more suited to single people who want to enjoy the city life to its fullest. Popular residential areas of the city are San Siro, Fiera, Citta' Studi and Naviglio, which is located on the river.
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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Expats usually rent their homes. Unless they are on a short-term assignment and seeking short-term accommodation, they usually bring belongings and furniture with them to Italy.
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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?
Landlords commonly ask for three months' rent as a security deposit. This deposit will be returned to you at the end of your lease, after you move out and a final check shows that the residence was left in good condition. This deposit is due at the time of lease signing. It is sometimes requested earlier, in order to secure the apartment during lease negotiation, so that it is not shown to other potential tenants. Also, at the time of lease signing you may be required to pay the first month of rent in addition to or instead of this security deposit.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
Utilities like electricity, telephone and gas are not included in rents. If you live in a condominium, heating and water expenses may sometimes be included in condominium fees. A condominium is a type of ownership structure rather than a style of residence.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
As in all big cities, it is best to avoid walking around alone at night, especially on deserted streets or in the suburbs.
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I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
Voltage is 220, and plug shape may be either round or flat. If you are coming from a non-EU country, you will need adaptors and/or transformers. Even with a transformer, 110-volt appliances may not work properly. Furnished and most partly-furnished accommodations are rented with only basic electrical appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, washing machines, televisions and irons. Many furnished accommodations do not have clothes dryers.
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Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
Housing in Italy is quite small. You can rarely find an apartment with more than four bedrooms, and often villas are on three floors with only a very small garden. Apartments in town do not usually come with a garage. You will have to look for and rent a place to park your car separately. Most city dwellers rent a space in a public garage.

For more information about accommodation, contact Crown Milan.
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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.