Housing

BiH's rental market is informal by Western standards. Most apartments are rented directly from private landlords, often without formal agency involvement. Furnished apartments are the norm for expats, and many landlords prefer cash payments. Contracts may be informal, but getting a written agreement is advisable — you'll need one for residence permit applications.

The most common platforms for finding apartments are OLX.ba (BiH's Craigslist equivalent), Facebook groups, and word of mouth. Real estate agencies exist but charge 1 month's rent as commission. For the best deals, spend your first week in an Airbnb or hostel while apartment hunting in person — landlords strongly prefer face-to-face meetings.

Utility costs in BiH are low by European standards but vary significantly by season. Winter heating is the biggest variable — central heating or electric heaters can double your winter utility bills. Internet is widely available in cities at reasonable speeds, though fiber coverage is still expanding.

The BiH rental market has its quirks. Being prepared and knowing local customs will help you secure better deals and avoid common pitfalls.