Paris

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Shared Housing

Sections

1. Types of Shared Housing in Paris

Shared housing in Paris comes in various forms, depending on your budget, preferences, and the type of people you want to live with. Here are the most common types:

  • Traditional Colocation (Flatshare):

    • A group of people (students, professionals, or a mix) share an apartment or house. Each person typically has their own bedroom, while the kitchen, living room, and bathroom(s) are shared.
    • This is the most common type of shared housing in Paris.

  • Intergenerational Housing:

    • A younger person (often a student) lives with an older person or senior citizen. In exchange for reduced rent, the younger tenant may help with light chores, errands, or simply provide companionship.

  • Co-Living Spaces:

    • A modern, community-oriented form of shared housing. Co-living spaces are fully furnished and often include utilities, cleaning services, and shared amenities like coworking spaces or gyms. These are more expensive but offer convenience and a built-in social network.

  • Student Residences with Shared Apartments:

    • Some student housing providers offer shared apartments where each tenant has a private room but shares common areas with other students.

  • Short-Term Shared Housing:

    • Temporary shared housing options, such as subletting a room in an apartment, are common for people staying in Paris for a few months.

2. Average Costs of Shared Housing in Paris

The cost of shared housing in Paris varies depending on the location, type of housing, and amenities provided. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Traditional Colocation:

    • Rent: €500–€900 per month per person.
    • Utilities (electricity, water, internet): €50–€100 per month per person.
    • Security Deposit: Typically one to two months' rent.

  • Intergenerational Housing:

    • Rent: €200–€500 per month (heavily discounted in exchange for assistance).

  • Co-Living Spaces:

    • Rent: €800–€1,500 per month (includes utilities and services).

  • Student Residences:

    • Rent: €400–€800 per month per person.

  • Short-Term Shared Housing:

    • Rent: €600–€1,200 per month, depending on the duration and location.

Note: Housing in central Paris (arrondissements 1–11) is generally more expensive than in the outer arrondissements or suburbs.

3. How to Find Shared Housing in Paris

There are several ways to find shared housing in Paris. Here are the most effective methods:

Online Platforms:

  • Specialized Websites for Colocation:

    • Appartager: The most popular platform for finding flatshares in France.
    • La Carte des Colocs: A user-friendly platform with a map-based search.
    • Roomlala: Focuses on short-term and long-term room rentals.
    • CoHomly: Specializes in intergenerational housing.

  • General Housing Websites:

    • Le Bon Coin: A classifieds website where you can find shared housing listings.
    • Seloger: A general real estate platform with some shared housing options.

  • Co-Living Providers:

Social Media and Groups:

  • Facebook groups like "Colocation à Paris" or "Expats in Paris" often have listings for shared housing.
  • Join local WhatsApp or Telegram groups for expats or students in Paris.

University Networks:

  • If you’re a student, check with your university’s housing office or student associations. They often have resources or bulletin boards with shared housing opportunities.

Word of Mouth:

  • Networking with friends, colleagues, or fellow expats can lead to housing opportunities that aren’t advertised online.

4. Procedures for Securing Shared Housing

Once you’ve found a potential shared housing option, follow these steps:

Step 1: Contact the Landlord or Current Tenants

  • Send a polite and concise message introducing yourself, explaining why you’re interested in the room, and providing basic details (e.g., your age, occupation, and intended move-in date).
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your lifestyle and habits, as compatibility is important in shared housing.

Step 2: Visit the Property

  • Schedule a visit to see the room and meet the current tenants. If you’re abroad, ask for a virtual tour.
  • During the visit, ask about house rules, shared responsibilities (e.g., cleaning), and the cost breakdown (rent, utilities, etc.).

Step 3: Provide Required Documents

In France, landlords and tenants often require the following documents:

  • A copy of your ID or passport.
  • Proof of income (e.g., recent payslips, employment contract, or bank statements).
  • A guarantor’s details (a person who agrees to pay your rent if you can’t). If you don’t have a French guarantor, you can use services like GarantMe.
  • Proof of enrollment (if you’re a student).

Step 4: Sign the Lease Agreement

  • Review the lease agreement carefully. It should outline the rent, deposit, duration, and house rules.
  • If you’re subletting, ensure the arrangement is legal and approved by the landlord.

Step 5: Pay the Security Deposit and First Month’s Rent

  • The security deposit is usually one to two months’ rent. Make sure to get a receipt for any payments.

Step 6: Move In

  • Take photos of the room and shared spaces when you move in to document the condition of the property.

5. Local and Cultural Considerations

  • House Rules: French flatshares often have informal house rules about cleaning, noise, and guests. Discuss these with your housemates to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise, especially in the evenings. French neighbors value peace and quiet.
  • Shared Responsibilities: Cleaning and maintaining shared spaces is usually a collective responsibility. Some flatshares create a cleaning rota.
  • Smoking: Smoking indoors is less common, but some flatshares may allow it. Always ask beforehand.
  • Language: While many Parisians speak English, knowing some basic French phrases can help you communicate with landlords and housemates.
  • Legal Subletting: Subletting is only legal in France if the landlord has given written permission. Be cautious of illegal sublets.

6. Practical Tips

  • Start Early: The housing market in Paris is competitive, so start your search at least 1–2 months before your intended move-in date.
  • Be Flexible: Consider living in outer arrondissements or nearby suburbs like Montreuil or Saint-Denis for more affordable options.
  • Beware of Scams: Never send money before visiting the property or signing a lease. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
  • Use a Guarantor Service: If you don’t have a French guarantor, services like GarantMe or Visale can help.
  • Negotiate Utilities: Clarify whether utilities are included in the rent or paid separately.

7. Useful Resources

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to find and secure shared housing in Paris. Bonne chance!