Blog
Living in Rome: Setting Up Essential Services
Living in Rome: Setting Up Essential ServicesSo it wasn’t easy, but you’ve finally found your dream apartment. Now you can sit back,relax, and enjoy la dolce vita. Well, almost – there are just a few essential services you needto set up first…Electricity & GasIn...
Rentals in Rome: which contract is right for you?
You’ve just landed your dream job: a permanent contract in the eternal city. Or maybe you’re being seconded to the Rome branch for a couple of years by your multinational employer. Perhaps you’ve decided to do your Master’s or PhD at one of the city’s numerous...
Finding a Room in Rome
Finding a room in RomeFinding a room for rent in Rome - or even a bed in a shared room! - is not easy. Rome hosts around 40,000 students living away from home. Add to that the countless Italian and foreign workers who don’t earn enough to rent a whole apartment to...
How to find an apartment in Rome: the ultimate expat guide
How to find an apartment in Rome: the ultimate expat guide Finding an apartment to rent in Rome is HARD. Demand for rentals is sky-high, so that little place you had your eye on last week has probably already gone by the time you pick up the phone to ask about it. You...
Living in Rome: Quartiere Africano
When you think of Rome you may dream of living in the historic centre, where the city’s rich history and vibrant culture are most palpable. Certainly, the idea of stepping out of your front door directly into the heart of Trastevere, or gazing out at a stunning view...
How to make yourself a more attractive tenant
Renting in Rome is tough. The high demand for accommodation means that landlords can afford to be choosy. In practice, this means they prefer tenants they perceive to be lower risk: namely, Italians, or at least, people with an Italian employment contract.So what can...
Student accommodation in Rome: how Helpmate Rome can save you time and give you peace of mind
Sending your child off to college is a momentous occasion filled with excitement and anticipation. When that college is in a foreign country – let alone a city as historic as Rome – the experience promises to be even more enriching. But it’s also daunting. Will they...
Who’s ringing your bell?
You’re blissfully asleep in your comfy bed when suddenly your dreams are shattered by the buzz of your entry phone. Who could it be?The most likely answer is the postperson: “Sono il postino/la postina, mi faccia entrare per cortesia?” – a routine occurrence. Just...
Private Rental Companies in Rome: Paragon or Predator?
I’ve already discussed how to avoid scams in the Rome housing rental market here. However, recent years have seen the emergence of a new type of player. These so-called “private rental companies” don’t charge landlords for their services, but instead require potential...
Powering RAI: Paying Italy’s TV Licence Fee through Your Electricity Bill
Italy has an interesting approach to funding its state-owned TV company, RAI. While RAI also generates revenue through advertising, a significant part of its funding comes from a licence fee. To address issues of evasion and ensure broader compliance, a few years ago...
Prima casa, seconda casa: what do they mean?
Prima casa, seconda casa: What do they mean and what are the implications?First house, second house… the translation is easy and the meaning’s clear, right? Or maybe not.In English, “first home” typically refers to a property bought by someone who has never previously...
Decoding Italian Real Estate Ads: A Quick Guide
Whether you’re looking for a superattico or a palazzo, you won’t get far if you don’t understand what the real estate ads are telling you. So let’s demystify their language. From floor details to contract terms, I’ve decoded it all for you!Cracking the Floor CodeS1...
Avoiding scams
Avoiding scams in the Rome housing rental marketThe rental market can be a daunting place, especially for expats who might be unfamiliar with the local landscape. Unfortunately, scammers often prey on unsuspecting individuals. Here are some common scams to watch out...