Finding the right home can be tricky for some people, but as a foreigner in Estonia, it might be the most-significant initial challenge to overcome.
There are several reasons for that: Firstly, the rental market in Tallinn and Tartu is quite competitive, which means that great apartment listings tend to be claimed within hours. Outside of simply scrolling through the real estate sites, you need to also act quickly, make a call, and try to arrange an in-person meeting.
Secondly, rental announcements will usually feature descriptions for apartments in Estonian, and the owners might not speak English. Luckily, in the modern day, the Estonian-to-English Google Translate will work well enough to give you an understanding of any rental situation, and its prices.
Prepare For An Interview
It would be a good idea to invite a friend or coworker to come to visit the apartments with you so that they'll be able to help with any translation questions.
If you are interested in a quality apartment, there might be many different people interested. Because of this, an interview is an important way for the owner to figure out who might make for a good tenant. Bring your A game, and keep in mind that, at the end of any legitimate deal, a written rental contract must always be signed.
The main real estate sites to look are: kinnisvara24.ee, kv.ee, city24.ee.
There are also Facebook groups that will list rentals directly from owners, but it should be no surprise to you that these groups are written in Estonian. One of the most popular is "Renting Apartments (WITHOUT BROKERS!)" https://www.facebook.com/groups/299056793537765
The Power Of Recommendation
You can also use real-estate agency services, like UusMaa, Arco Vara, Pindi, Kawe, Bonava, RE Kinnisvara, Domus, etc. It is a more costly option, but it will likely be less stressful for you, especially as a foreigner.
As it is with anywhere else in the world, the city-center areas (Kesklinn, Kadriorg, Kalamaja) are the most expensive, while suburbia (Õismäe, Mustamäe, Lasnamäe) offer cheaper options.
You should never underestimate the power of recommendation. Therefore, always ask your local friends and coworkers if they know anybody who is renting, or if they are willing to make a social-media post on your behalf. Be creative!
Prices & Costs
In recent years, apartment prices have gone up in Estonia, (like everywhere else), and the renting process can be quite costly. The rental standard is to ask for the first month’s rent, a deposit, and a contract or agent fee equivalent to one month’s rent.
It is very important to have a discussion about the utility costs, because the particulars can vary a lot depending on how or when the house was built, and also what kind of heating system is in place. Estonia has long winters, and the high electricity and gas prices in some areas can be equivalent to the rental prices themselves!
Here's some good advice: Ask to see an example of last winter's utility bill. This way, you'll be able to see the costs, and prepare for them. (Don't forget to take into account how pricing has increased, as well.) In Estonia, it is usually standard practice that apartments will be fully furnished, so you won't have to worry about buying furniture.
Always read the rental contract carefully, and make sure that you and the owner both understand the details. For example: if pets are allowed, if you can hang a picture on a wall, where you can park, etc.
Find more information about housing here: https://www.workinestonia.com/coming-to-estonia/housing-general/
This blog post about real-life apartment hunting might also interest you: https://estonianworld.com/opinion/great-expectations-and-harsh-realitie…