Renting an Apartment in Yerevan: How to Avoid Scams and Find the Best Option

1. The Search Phase: Where to Look and What to Watch For

The most popular platforms for finding apartments are List.am and social media groups. However, these platforms are also where scams frequently occur. For a safer experience, you can turn to reliable real estate agencies.

Reliable Platforms and Agencies:

• List.am: This is the largest online platform in Armenia, offering a huge variety of apartments. You should be very careful here and thoroughly check each listing.
• MyRealty.am: A specialized website that focuses exclusively on real estate rentals. The offers from realtors and owners here are generally more reliable.
• Reputable real estate agencies: There are several well-known real estate agencies (e.g., Kentron Realty, Estate.am) that have good reputations and can find the right apartment for you. Working with an agent can be safer, as they verify the authenticity of the documents.

2. The Verification Phase: Safety and Legal Matters

Before signing any contract, you must verify several key documents and conditions.

• Certificate of Ownership: Ask to see the apartment's certificate of ownership (cadastral certificate). Make sure it belongs to the person you are signing the contract with.
• Identity Document: Compare the owner's passport details with the information on the ownership certificate. If there are multiple owners, they must all be aware of and consent to the rental agreement.
• Utility Debts: Before signing the lease, ask to check that the apartment has no outstanding utility debts. This includes electricity, gas, or water bills. You can often check this through the apps of the respective service providers by looking up the address.

3. The Contract: Protecting Your Rights

Under the Civil Code of Armenia, a lease agreement does not need to be notarized, but it is essential to protect your interests.

• One-time Payment: It is common to pay the first and last month's rent upfront. This amount, known as a deposit, should be clearly stated in the contract and is refundable when you move out, provided the apartment is returned without damage.
• Clear Terms: The contract must contain clear information about:
• The duration and price of the lease.
• The amount of the deposit and the conditions for its return.
• The arrangement for utility payments (who pays what).
• The conditions for contract termination and any penalties (for example, if one party terminates the contract unilaterally).
• Inventory List: Be sure to create a detailed list of all the furniture, appliances, and other property in the apartment. It's also a good idea to take pictures of the overall condition of the apartment at the time you move in. This will help avoid disputes when you are trying to get your deposit back.

4. How to Avoid Scams: Concrete Advice

• Don't transfer money without a contract: Never pay any money (even a deposit) without first signing a lease agreement and physically inspecting the apartment.
• Be a careful inspector: When visiting the apartment, check that all utility systems are working (water, gas, electricity) and check the condition of doors and windows.
• Avoid suspicious deals: If someone offers to sign a contract without the owner present, or if the owner's documents seem suspicious, do not agree.

By following these simple rules, you will significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to a scam and can find your desired apartment in Yerevan safely and reliably