You've decided to make the leap and move to Ireland—exciting, right? Whether it's for exciting career prospects, furthering your education, or mastering English, the prospect is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. There's a whirlwind of things to organize, to prepare. You're eager to embrace all the transformative experiences awaiting you.
While the housing landscape might seem daunting at first glance, there's a solution out there waiting for you. But don't worry, take a deep breath! It's all part of the adventure, right? So buckle up, and get ready to conquer this exciting new chapter of your life in the Emerald Isle!
The Renting market:
Housing shortages in Ireland results from a complex variety of factors, but one undeniable driver is the country's steadily growing population, which increased by 8% between 2016 and the latest census in 2022, now totaling 5,149,139 in the Republic of Ireland alone. This surge in population places considerable strain on the already high demand for rental accommodation.
While the housing pressure is mostly felt in the greater Dublin area, there's a glimmer of hope: rent price increases in the city are finally tapering off. However, this relief is offset by rising rents in other regions of the country.
Be alert and careful:
In any buoyant market, there are unfortunately some who seek to take advantage of the situation. You might come across tales of overcrowded living spaces, scams, or disappearing landlords—stories that can be concerning.
However, staying vigilant and informed can help you navigate these potential pitfalls. Take the time to research websites, verify the legitimacy of companies, and exercise caution when dealing with unfamiliar individuals.
The foremost piece of advice: refrain from making payments to private landlords whom you haven't met in person, and do so only after you have physically inspected the accommodation.
The only circumstance in which it is acceptable to make a payment in advance is through rental agencies or privately owned companies that possess the building, such as student rental accommodations.
Ultimately, trust your instincts and use common sense. If something feels off, it's worth investigating further. Remember, your well-being is paramount, and taking proactive steps to safeguard yourself can make all the difference.
If you're already set on employment or studies in Ireland, don't hesitate to lean on your employer, university, or language school for guidance and advice—they're often valuable resources with insights to share.
But it is not all that bad.
Another option worth considering is using a hosting agency. Despite the associated fee, this route offers assurances that you're not falling victim to a scam, and provides ongoing support throughout your stay.
Moreover, booking your accommodation through a hosting agency 3-4 months in advance can offer excellent value for your money. By planning ahead, you can often choose from more affordable options, sometimes even securing rates lower than the current market price. This approach effectively balances out the initial agency fee.
There's also the added bonus of connecting with welcoming local hosts, which can lead to meaningful friendships. In fact, many former au pairs fondly recall their experiences, often referring to their host as their "Irish mum" or "Irish family."
Hosts are typically homeowners looking to supplement their income by renting out a spare room, ensuring that the accommodation is well-maintained and cozy. Beyond providing a place to stay, hosts often offer valuable insights and warm hospitality. Many have traveled or lived abroad themselves, so they understand the challenges of arriving in a new place and feeling out of your comfort zone. With their open-mindedness and kindness, they can help ease your transition and make your stay in Ireland even more enjoyable.
Start looking early for peace of mind:
The last thing you want upon arriving in a new country is to find yourself stuck in a crowded hostel room for weeks or burdened by an exorbitant price for short-term accommodation, which could strain your budget for the rest of your stay.
To avoid these scenarios, it's recommended to start your accommodation search as early as 3 to 4 months before your arrival. Even upon receiving a job offer or a confirmed course acceptance, beginning your search promptly enables you to secure better value for your money and choose the right room in the location that best suits your needs. Once your booking is confirmed, you can focus on preparing for your trip—packing, organizing, and bidding farewell to friends and family. This early planning leaves you with peace of mind, ready to fully embrace the upcoming experience!
In summary,
The housing crisis in Ireland presents significant challenges, but there are strategies to secure affordable and comfortable housing during your stay. Opting to live with a host is highly recommended, especially for medium-term relocations. Not only does it provide the opportunity to connect with locals and receive support from an agency if needed, but it also enables you to secure suitable accommodation well in advance of your trip. This proactive approach allows you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience of discovering a new place or country without the stress of last-minute housing arrangements.
If you're seeking accommodation for a stay lasting anywhere from 1 to 18 months, look no further than Hosting Power, the foremost provider of medium-term lodging in Ireland. Established in 2014, we boast a portfolio of nearly 10,000 rooms scattered across Ireland, with over half of them located in Dublin. Our exclusive focus on medium-term stays has enabled us to implement tailored solutions to meet this specific need: rental prices are capped to ensure you never pay above market rates, bills are included in your rent, and we require only a one-week deposit.
Visit www.hostingpower.ie to secure your room today!