Once you have found a home, the question is how soon you can move in. Here is the usual order and timing; it depends on you and the owner.
| Step | Usual timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Sign the letter of intent (LOI) | Same day or next day | Set the rent, lease term, move-in date and anything to be added, and pay the good-faith deposit |
| Owner accepts | Usually days | Negotiate terms until the owner signs |
| Sign the tenancy agreement | Within about a week | Pay the deposit and first month's rent; we check your passport and pass |
| Handover | Move-in day | Check the inventory and photograph the condition |
| Move in | Usually 1–3 weeks | Collect keys and access cards, set up utilities and internet |
Before you sign the LOI
- Your top budget, and whether a two-year lease works for you.
- The latest date you need to move in.
- Anything you want the owner to add or repair.
On handover day
- Check every item on the inventory and note anything broken on the spot.
- Photograph and film the condition of the home; it helps when you move out.
- Collect the access cards, keys, letterbox key and car park cards.
When you sign the LOI we give you a timeline and send a WhatsApp update after every step.
