Guide to: Brazilians Renting Their First Apartment in South Florida
Relocating to South Florida is an exciting milestone for many Brazilians. But finding and renting your first apartment here can be overwhelming if you’re new to the U.S. rental system.
This step-by-step guide breaks down the process—so you know what to expect, avoid common mistakes, and confidently secure a place you can call home.
Step 1: Understand the South Florida Rental Market
South Florida—stretching from Palm Beach County through Broward to Miami-Dade—has one of the most dynamic rental markets in the U.S. Popular areas with strong Brazilian communities include Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, and North Miami.
Rental prices vary widely depending on location, amenities, and proximity to the beach. For example:
Palm Beach County: Slightly more affordable, with family-friendly suburbs.
Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Pompano, Deerfield): Strong Brazilian presence, mid-range prices.
Miami-Dade: Trendy but pricier, especially in Brickell, Miami Beach, and Doral.
Start researching a few months before your move. Apartments rent quickly, so staying ahead will give you more options.
Step 2: Prepare Your Required Documents
Landlords and property managers in the U.S. usually require more documentation than in Brazil. To avoid delays, gather these in advance:
Valid Passport & Visa (tourist, student, or work visa).
Proof of Income (pay stubs, employment letter, or bank statements).
Credit History (U.S. credit score if available; if not, you may need alternatives).
References (from previous landlords or employers).
Proof of Savings (sometimes requested if you’re new to the U.S.).
For newcomers without a U.S. credit score, you may be asked to pay a larger security deposit or provide a guarantor.
Step 3: Set Your Budget
Apartments in South Florida range anywhere from $1,500/month for a modest one-bedroom in the suburbs to $5,000+ for luxury condos in Miami.
When budgeting, don’t forget to account for:
First & Last Month’s Rent (often required upfront).
Security Deposit (usually one month’s rent).
Utilities (water, electricity, internet—sometimes included, often not).
Application Fees ($50–$150 per adult applicant).
Renter’s Insurance (around $15–$30/month, often required).
Step 4: Choose Where to Live
Your lifestyle will likely guide your decision.
Students (F-1 Visa): Look near universities or English schools (Boca Raton, Miami Dade College areas).
Families: Suburban areas like Coral Springs, Weston, or Boca Raton offer good schools and quieter neighborhoods.
Young Professionals: Brickell, Fort Lauderdale, and Downtown Miami offer vibrant nightlife and business hubs.
Brazilian newcomers often prefer areas with established communities—this makes adapting easier, and you’ll find Brazilian restaurants, grocery stores, and churches nearby.
Step 5: Search for Apartments
Here are popular ways Brazilians in South Florida find rentals:
Real Estate Websites: Zillow, Realtor.com, Apartments.com.
Brazilian Realtors: Many specialize in helping newcomers adjust.
Community Groups: Facebook and WhatsApp groups for Brazilians in Florida often share rental leads.
Local Realtors in Brazilian Areas: Offices in Deerfield, Pompano, and Doral often have bilingual staff.
Never send money before visiting the property or signing a lease. Rental scams are common.
Step 6: Visit Properties and Ask Questions
When touring apartments, check:
Lease length (12 months is standard).
Whether utilities are included.
Parking availability.
Pet policies.
Security of the building/neighborhood.
Take photos and notes—apartments can look similar, and details will blur quickly.
Step 7: Submit the Rental Application
Once you find a place, you’ll need to fill out an application. Expect to provide:
Personal details (passport, visa info, contact).
Employment/income proof.
References.
Application fee.
If approved, you’ll sign a lease agreement—a legally binding contract outlining rent, terms, and tenant rights. Always review it carefully, ideally with a bilingual realtor or attorney if you’re not fully comfortable with English legal terms.
Step 8: Move-In Preparation
After signing the lease and paying deposits, prepare for move-in:
Set up utilities (electricity: FPL in most of South Florida, water through the city, internet via Comcast/AT&T).
Schedule movers or rent a truck.
Buy essential furniture—many newcomers start with second-hand finds from Facebook Marketplace or Brazilian furniture stores in Deerfield and Pompano.
Take detailed photos of the apartment before moving in (important for getting your security deposit back later).
Step 9: Know Your Tenant Rights
Florida rental laws protect both landlords and tenants. As a tenant, you have the right to:
A safe, habitable apartment.
Written notice before rent increases.
Written notice before landlord entry (usually 12 hours).
Return of your security deposit (minus damages) within 15–60 days after moving out.
Resource: Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services has a tenant rights guide.
Step 10: Connect with the Brazilian Community
Renting your first apartment is just the start. To truly feel at home:
Visit Brazilian bakeries, cafés, and supermarkets. Click here for a list.
Join local Brazilian churches or community centers.
Network with Brazilian realtors, accountants, and immigration consultants and lawyers who understand your needs.
The more connections you build, the smoother your transition will be.
Final Thoughts
Renting your first apartment in South Florida as a Brazilian can feel complicated—but with preparation, patience, and the right guidance, it’s absolutely manageable.
By researching neighborhoods, preparing documents, and working with Brazilian-friendly realtors, you’ll not only find a great apartment—you’ll also create a foundation for your new life in Florida.
