What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Most expats consider budget, security, distance of work and/or school.
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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Barra da Tijuca, Leblon, Sao Conrado, Ipanema, Copacabana, Lagoa, Urca, Botafogo, Flamengo and Gavea.

Usually, expats tend to stick to Ipanema, Leblon and Barra da Tijuca depending on their lifestyle. Barra da Tijuca tends to be more appropriate for families with kids due to the size of properties, safety and the surrounding areas. There are many malls in this area and there is a large expat community.

The downside is that it is far from downtown (approximately 45 to 50 minutes by car) and you need a car to do anything. The good thing about Barra is that since the area is new, the properties tend to be newer as well.

Leblon and Ipanema on the other hand are more traditional, but the apartments are usually old and not well maintained. The good thing about these places is that there is a lot to do and see within walking distance and it is closer to downtown.

You can visit the website www.jtavares.com.br and evaluate what type of houses/apartments are available and the market price. Please bear in mind that usually the properties shown are not always available. Rio de Janeiro has a much disputed real estate market and it is hard to find nice properties available.
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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Expats tend to rent their homes.
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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?
It is common to have a warrantor/trustee (fiador) sign your rental contract. You don't have to pay additional money up front.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
Utilities are not included.

Find below the description of the utility services available.

Electricity
There is only one service available: Light.

Gas
There is only one service available: CEG.

Telephone.
There are several companies that provide telephone service in Brazil. The most well-known are Oi (formerly known as Telemar), Vivo, TIM, Claro and NET.

Cable TV
There are 2 main companies, NET and Sky. NET comes on a cable and is not always available, whereas Sky is a satellite and is more readily available. In both cases, it takes up to 7 working days to have it installed.

Internet
There are two main options: Velox (Oi) and Virtua (NET). It is important to check the availability of the service in the area.

Water
The company responsible for the water is CEDAE.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
Brazil has an unfair reputation of being extraordinarily dangerous, but its main cities are no more dangerous than major cities you'd encounter in Europe or North America. Brazil is politically stable with no natural enemies. As long as you're streetwise and sensible, you should be just fine.
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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?
Electric current is 60Hz and plug shape is 110 v.
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Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
If you have any questions, please contact Crown Rio de Janeiro.
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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.