If you're planning a move or an extended stay in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, finding an apartment can be an exciting yet daunting task. If you're like me and don't speak any Kyrgyz or Russian, it can be even more stressful. In this blog post, I'll share with you my experience of finding an apartment in Bishkek and things you should consider in your search.
How to Find an Apartment in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
1. Determine Your Budget and Requirements:
Before you start your apartment hunt, you must establish your budget and requirements. Consider factors like the size of the apartment, preferred location, amenities, and proximity to essential facilities such as schools, markets, and public transportation. Be realistic about your financial capabilities to find an apartment that fits within your budget.
Note that in Kyrgyzstan, a two-bedroom apartment means one bedroom and one living room. So if you're looking for an apartment with two bedrooms, you'll actually need to be searching for three-bedroom apartments. My boyfriend and I live in a two-bedroom apartment and according to Kyrgyz citizens, you can easily find an apartment where the monthly rent ranges from 250 to 400 USD. However, with the increased cost of living, the monthly rent has significantly increased. Now, you can expect to pay a monthly rent of 400 USD to 700 USD. We moved here in July 2022 and pay 700 USD per month for a two-bedroom apartment. Our apartment is completely renovated with a modern interior design. I've seen apartments for rent with similar specifications for 800 USD to 1000 USD.
This is the view from our apartment:
2. Research and Explore Neighborhoods:
Bishkek is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own distinct characteristics. Conduct thorough research on neighborhoods that align with your preferences and lifestyle. Explore areas like the city center (Chuy Avenue), Ala-Too Square, Sovetskiy, or the quieter suburbs like Ak-Orgo and Orozbekov. Visit these neighborhoods to get a feel for the atmosphere, accessibility, and overall appeal.
When my boyfriend and I searched for apartments, he was insistent on living in the Southern part of the city and I am incredibly thankful for that. During the winter season, the air pollution is absolutely terrible and highly concentrated towards the city center. The Southern part is closer to the mountains and less congested which allows the air to be cleaner. Also, the apartments are much newer which also makes the area more expensive to rent.
3. Utilize Online Resources:
Take advantage of popular real estate websites, online classifieds, and social media platforms to find available listings. We used a website called Apartment.kg and they have an active Instagram page with posts to each apartment, with photos, price, and district. Their language is also in English.
We also joined the Expats in Bishkek Facebook Group and often see postings for available apartments. Engage with fellow expats who can provide insights, share experiences, and potentially connect you with available apartments. Sites that locals use such as house.kg seems to have more affordable options but you may need help from someone who speaks the language. Also, you can always rely on Airbnb to find short-term accommodations.
4. Consider Language Barriers:
In Bishkek, the official language is Kyrgyz, while Russian is widely spoken. English proficiency may vary and if you're lucky, you may find an agent that speaks English well. It's advisable to learn some basic Kyrgyz or Russian phrases to communicate with landlords, property managers, and potential neighbors. This can help establish rapport and facilitate a smoother rental process. Google Translate will be your best friend, but if you have an acquaintance that you can bring for open houses or when signing your contract, that will be the best-case scenario.
5. Review and Negotiate Lease Terms:
Carefully review the lease agreement before signing. Pay attention to the rental duration, deposit requirements, rent increase clauses, maintenance responsibilities, and any restrictions on pets or modifications to the property. If necessary, negotiate the terms to ensure they align with your needs. Most apartments will ask for a one-year contract and a one-month deposit.
In general, the process of finding an apartment for us took less than a month and was much simpler than it is in North America. Our landlord did not ask for background checks, employment, or reference letters. All he asked for was a one-month deposit.
Do you have any more advice that should be shared with other apartment hunters? Leave it in the comments below!
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