Tips and advice on navigating the rental market in Cuenca.

Finding the right accommodations in Cuenca can be a difficult challenge, but if you are equipped with the proper information and have the willingness to search, it doesn't have to be. For many individuals and families making the big move to the city, securing suitable housing is the first key step in what is expected to be a smooth and easy transition to Cuenca and Ecuador. The 2 main points everyone must take into consideration are the different rates that locals (and non locals) charge, which are based on 2 very important variables: Long term versus short term and furnished versus unfurnished. Even then, these 2 variables can take on very different meanings, often determined by the landlord's somewhat ambiguous and at times erratic definition of words like: furnished, long term, comfortable, apartment. Furnished is by far the most loosely used term, as it can encompass a wide range of interpretations. It can easily mean just a bed, table and chair. Fully furnished can mean all those items, plus a floor lamp. The lesson here is to always ask what is included in the apartment. This can serve as negotiating leverage for the potential tenant in circumstances where not everything that is expected to be there is made available by the landlord, or is not what you had envisioned. The fact that the TV set in the living room was last seen in 1980s Soviet Russia can maybe lower the rent a little. You will not know until you ask. The same rule applies when discussing the length of the lease with a landlord. For some, 3 months could be considered long term and comes with the applicable rate. However, the norm followed by most landlords in Cuenca is that the lease be 6 months or more in order for it to be considered long term. Again, always make sure to ask in order to avoid any misunderstandings.

Something else to consider is if the ads are in English, than most likely the owner or broker is either a resident foreigner or a local that has lived in the US for many years and is now back. This usually makes it easier to communicate, but are hardly ever the best deals available. The way locals here in Cuenca do it is by asking their neighbors and friends, knocking on stranger's doors and carefully surveying potential neighborhoods where they want to live. In other words, it will take some effort, tons of patience and a willingness to venture out of your comfort zone. The concept of Real Estate brokers is an American import, and a service rarely used by locals unless it is to buy land. They do offer convenience and expertise, but that comes at a price. If you have the resources and limited time and/or patience, then they are your best option. But if you are the adventurous type, then the best and most exciting way to find that perfect apartment or house is to hit the streets of Cuenca and just ask people. A nice stroll in any neighborhood in Cuenca will always be a delightful way to spend your Sunday afternoon, but if you happen to look up, you will see plenty of SE ARRIENDA (FOR RENT) signs displayed on windows and house fronts. You can ask anyone living there for more information, or get your best Ecuadorean friend to call and inquire about the rental being offered.

Finding the right house or apartment in Cuenca does not have to be a painful experience, so long as you are prepared. Taking the correct measures will go a long way in helping those moving to beautiful Cuenca secure safe and suitable accommodations, and you can instead focus your time and energy in enjoying everything wonderful this amazing city has to offer.

Feel free to email us any questions you may have to: info@alternatur-cuenca.com