real estate agents w/apt rentals

solartimba

New member
Dec 5, 2003
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I am going to be living in Santo Domingo for 5-6 months, and I don't want to live in an apart-hotel for that long. Ideally, a month before I move, I would like to fly in for a week and arrange everything using a real estate agent for the apartment rental. But, before I go this route, I would like to get some advice:

1) How much more does it cost to deal with a real estate agent versus doing it alone? 10% more? 20% more?

2) Can I get an agent arrange for phone and internet installation? If not, how long does it normally take to get these services?

3) Does anyone have any experience with furnished apartments? What is the quality? Do furniture stores rent?

4) Is a 6-month lease usually available?

5) Generally, what are the advantages/disadvantages of working with a real estate agent?