APARTMENT HUNTING IN PARIS | tips, prices & tours !

my experience apartment hunting in paris as a foreigner and freelancer (double whammy) but we got there in the end !! also join me on my Lingoda sprint try.lingoda.com/Moya_SprintCh... and use my code: 20MOYA for 25 dollars or 20 euros off registration !
basically a homage to all the apartments that rejected me... jk
things i mentioned:
GARANTME: www.garantme.fr/en
timestamps:
00:00 - intro
00:54 - the dossier
03:03 - where I found apartments
04:35 - what I was looking for
06:00 - lingoda sprint
07:54 - the tours
💌 contact me:
- insta: @moyamawhinney moyamawhinn...
- email: [e-mail]
- spotify: open.spotify.com/user/moyamaw...
💌 music:
- / saraheliseg
💌 faq:
where are you from? northern ireland - weird accent I know, my mum’s indonesian and my dad’s irish
what do you study? art history (major) and english literature!! its a dream I love it so much. I went to uni @ trinity college dublin and did my semester abroad at columbia
equipment? filmed on sony handycam ax43 and edited on Final Cut Pro X
everyday jewellery? either mejuri or my grandmothers xx - get 10% off your first mejuri order with my code! mejurifinecrew.sjv.io/x9QZ3k
fav makeup? glossier always !! 10% your first glossier order: re.glossier.com/3666e341
subs: 493k lovely people xx thank u lingoda for sponsoring

[@namiraayumiz]

u can’t do this to me i was literally about to put my phone down to sleep

[@zoezett6720]

Omg samee

[@aboromand9617]

Low energy vibe- must be exhausting looking for all those apartments 😊

[@ytchannel1682]

Moya I think the apartment you ended up getting is the best one!! It's such a perfect sized apartment for someone just moving to a new country, since you're still assimilating to the culture, it's the perfect place to start out in and also is a space that allows you to grow with it as a person so that one day when you upgrade to a bigger apartment you know yourself better and you'll have accumulated pieces of furniture or art that you love overtime, and have a better idea of what place you really want in the future!!

[@experiencesourceself358]

completely agreed!

[@nikitataneja9241]

So happy that you patiently waited for the right one! cannot wait to see how you decorate the studio💖💖

[@moyamawhinney]

aww thank you so so much!!! 😭🤍

[@tamunagegiadze6594]

Dear moya, I think you made right decision with apartment choice, space is enough for one and even two people, it is cosy, clean, with natural light and price wise, so good luck with your new life in Paris, be happy 🥰🥰

[@moyamawhinney]

thank you so much!!! exactly deffo perfect for one hehhe xx

[@JO-iu1gj]

Wow this sounds so stressful! I cant imagine how it was actually being in the hunting process. But congrats on the new apartment and I’m so glad you’re settled and ready to go for your France journey 🥳🥳!!! lots of love always xx

[@moyamawhinney]

thank you so much!!!!!!! got there in the end yall 😭

[@AizaXTema]

I'm currently looking for an apartment in Paris and even if you're French, it's still a nightmare to find one 😢Happy you were able to find yours !

[@masterculturedunkerque7918]

Je confirme !

[@moyamawhinney]

^^^ it’s a universal shared experience 😭😭 all the best!!!!

[@giuliakainradl4258]

I am so happy for you! I have been through the same process few months ago, and now I am a studio girl as well in Paris. It’s so fulfilling to finally get your own place after so many viewings ❤

[@looooouuuuuuuu]

what a journey it has been looking for ur apartment but now u got one that was rlly meant for u!!! couldn’t be happier for uuu hope u r cozy and settled in w ur new space sending u all the looove

[@kyungsoosemail]

so happy for you, Moya!! Manifesting I'll also get to live in Paris someday too 🥺💗

[@jai-bc3vk]

So happy for you ❤❤ Cant wait to see how you’ll decorate ur apartment!!!

[@lirranation9082]

I cant wait to see how beautiful Moya's gonna make this apartment! Her soul is literally gold i swear

[@sufigenosar4170]

so excited for the furniture hunting vlogs!

[@moyamawhinney]

YES

[@experiencesourceself358]

As one of the comments said - the one you got eventually is ABSOLUTELY the most beautiful one. it's all meant to be for you - wonderful, heartwarming to see you sharing your process ❤❤

[@itsmikassh]

You're already pretty good, for me learning french became easier when i had no other choice but to express myself. french people can be a little tough but if you speak and even if the wording isn't correct people will eventually get it. I'm sure you know this but it's really all about confidence!

[@itsthequeenfatima]

Fellow expat in Paris here but from the NY! Congrats on the apt! It is no easy feat! Also, I just finished the Lingoda sprint and I highly recommend it! It helped me with my confidence so much even after 7 years in France.

[@AddieCakes]

You’re literally glowing 🥹✨

[@yasminhassann]

you are glowing!!!!!🥺😍😍❤

[@cynicalcenobia]

You not getting certain apartments has absolutely nothing to do with the landlords or estate agents "liking" or disliking you; it has to do with the fact that as a freelancer you do not have a consistent source of income, meaning no company is contracted to pay you on a monthly basis, therefore, you're considered a high(er) risk tenant. This is the same in London, Amsterdam and just about any other in-demand city where people move to be able to go into work. On top of this ofc you're also not a French citizen, and so just as in every country, estate agents will prioritise locals. Citing your likability here just felt out-of-place and out-of-context.

[@rachiboo14]

Yup that’s it

[@GuckenAngeli]

Hello, c'est totalement vrai ! Par contre avoir un bon contact avec l'agent ou le proprio ça peut vraiment aider à avoir l'appartement, même si on a pas le meilleur dossier. Un dossier très personnel aussi, du genre une présentation de qui on est, pourquoi on est là, avec une photo et un résumé des éléments principaux du dossier etc, comme un CV/ lettre de motivation en fait. Avec mon copain on en avait visité beaucoup avant de surjouer notre intérêt et faire notre présentation, et dès qu'on a combiné les deux on nous a proposé tous les apparts qu'on visitait juste parce que les agents se souvenaient mieux de nous

[@margaritamonagashald6231]

Yep

[@forestchristine93]

Exactly!

[@Deadcablecorbs]

Like girl not everything is about specifically you, not everyone is that petty

[@ashaspacek5608]

Thank you SO MUCH for naming the sites/apps you used & sharing the real bts process. U made it seem much more possible to prepare and consider when finally ready & that it IS a possibility, albeit a journey. New to ur channel but grateful and excited for u. Happy tears & lots of cheers 🎉😅

[@thearcanamodernau8130]

As a Mexican who lived in France for a year, I can confidently say that being a foreigner can automatically disqualify you in the eyes of landlords, specially if you don't speak a lot of French 😅I would strongly advice learning at least an intermediate level of french before moving in for a long stay, specially in Paris. People treat you a lot nicer just by hearing you speaking French, and it makes the adaptation process a lot easier. Having a formal CDI or going as a student also makes the process of finding housing much more faster. That's not to say that not speaking French or not having a job at a company should discourage you from living there or visiting, of course! It's a beautiful country and a lifetime experience. Absolutely take it if you have the opportunity!

[@bibibob216]

I LITERALLY squealed when i saw the notification on my phone!!!! I'm so excited for your new apartments vlogs, and i'm super excited for a new chapter

[@moyamawhinney]

YAYAYAYYA

[@joymae]

Yesss needed this thank you. I can’t wait to see all the vintage furniture finds!!!

[@moyamawhinney]

heheheh

[@martineskaret]

so glad you finally found somewhere in the end and that somewhere is so so beautiful! so happy for u 😍

[@moyamawhinney]

thank you so so much!!!!

[@bee9266]

you look good in your new space moya, makes you glow 💗

[@moyamawhinney]

😭😭😭😭🤍🤍

[@watercolorsbyling5104]

Out of all the apartments, i like what you have now the most ❤

[@babyorangutan]

congrats on finding an apartment you liked moya !!

[@beablue9489]

I’m so excited 💕

[@croft4746]

Your voice is so relaxing ❤

[@yuenath]

i hate that landlords judge freelancers so quick; the struggle seemed so disheartening, but i'm glad you found a place!!!

[@H48972]

I fell completely in love with Paris spending time there, I can definitely see why everyone wants to move there. I know I do haha

[@figsandcoffee1923]

so happy for you, all this hunting was really challenging, but you got your strength back and you kept believing in the right one, enjoy it fully, it looks design for you! btw having direct light it is on my top list too, vitamine D helps you trough the rough times ☀

[@moyamawhinney]

aww thank you so so much heheh ❤️❤️❤️

[@myriam3894]

Who else fall asleep suddenly while moya talking 😂 love you moya thank you for the informations ❤️

[@moyamawhinney]

oh you sweetieeee

[@oh_itsjenna]

crazy how personal the renting process is there (compared to california)!! but kind of cool in a way? so glad you found a place you were happy with. ❤

[@moyamawhinney]

no totally like it’s so personal but when u get rejected it’s like PERSONAL hahahah

[@khmkay]

I was so damn waiting for this video.

[@udonthedewgong-3-353]

I love your apartment soooo much!!!!

[@leilakuper5230]

a really cool concept store in Paris to furnish your apartment: Merci, 111 blvd du temple. A Parisian favorite!

[@krystledicristofalo]

CONGRATULATIONS you deserve all the best life has to offer 🎉

[@damondominique]

she *IS* the new mayor of paris 🚬 bienvenue boo! you made it!

[@ZACCCHEN]

Love this !

[@kareyreuben3869]

That was quite interesting! You did an expert job of moving the photos and your narration along. (The place you're in looks like it has a lot of storage from what I see behind you.)

[@kamydelightsyou6585]

You so courageous ! Im currently looking in Paris as well, i love your studio! I used to have one room before and sleeping so often in my living room 😅

[@moyamawhinney]

omg good luck love!!!!

[@nim_19]

I can’t believe you viewed about 40 apartments 😭 you definitely deserve this one ❤

[@mollieefrances]

So happy for you! Also where is your jumper from ?? x

[@JakeRichardsong]

The 1600 one with all the light looked great.

[@zabellouisek]

I'm French n I live in Paris you're so cool! hope you enjoy Paris!! 🥐☕

[@cloudydaycauldron]

Thanks for sharing info, congrats on finding a place.

[@madalenamarques7994]

All beautiful appartements! But I think your studio is super nice and cozy and you can definitely turn it super cute with decoration 🥰😇 by the way, love your sweater!, where is it from? Xxx

[@shahed6816]

Congrats Moya

[@405Lenny]

Looking for an apartment is like having a full time job. Good luck! 🙏

[@nathalienurse3336]

That was some work you put into finding your new place, but things worked out for the best. Can’t wait to see how you furnish your new place Bonne chance……..🤗🇨🇦

[@iremkaya9103]

I couldnt find an apartment inside Paris so I had to go to the suburbs! Definitely more space and more cozy vibes for the apartment, but the commute and the surroundings is killing me :(

[@NanaYakubu]

Thank u moyaaaa!

[@ursmims]

very happy you found something nice!! appt hunting in paris is a real nightmare haha

[@kajdflm]

I would love to see a shopping for my apartment video

[@Jmfmn]

Moya great insight you’ve given me I had visited Paris multiple times and like everyone here of course would love to move there ! I have a couple of French friends one in Paris and Lyon and by the way I like your studio apartment cheers from Minneapolis

[@sofiakerringtontheauthorch2300]

This is awesooome

[@Vikyou]

Love the info, thank you

[@itsthequeenfatima]

Lollll I also visited the 1st apt you visited! I vlogged about it too in my Paris Apt Hunt video! What a coincidence! I also thought the apt lacked lighting features. It was a bit dark like you said!

[@ellyfrancesca]

I have no intentions of moving to Paris… but this was still interesting and helpful

[@allaboutxether]

luv ur videos moya

[@shahed6816]

Im also moving to Paris aaaaaaaa I’m so excited I just luv the cityyyyyyy

[@vielente]

GOOD LUCK!✨

[@shahed6816]

@@vielente thank you🫶🏼

[@ntsftrrr4168]

You choose the best one! It's so "YOU"

[@auroraa606]

Love your sweater - where is it from? 😍

[@clairemarissa0208]

wow the prices are insane!

[@zoebaumgartner7919]

What country do you live in? This put into perspective to me how expensive renting in my city (Sydney, Aus) has become!

[@raudahnor5847]

Please do a video on home decor!

[@miam9546]

random question- where is your sweater from? it looks so cute!

[@sielepare]

THAT TERRANCE! OMG so sad you didn't get that one!

[@ksu2577]

The crazy thing for me is that in Paris they want you to spend a lot of time at work or to even have another apartment so like you will not use that new apartment a lot. That is so insane

[@irism4905]

omg moya you should have told us for gens de confiance we would have referred you!!

[@irism4905]

(also, would you feel comfortable sharing which general area you ended up in?

[@kiribati9393]

1300 for 32sqm is quite expensive for Oberkampf ... and place de clichy is dodgy area, Chateau d'eau is quite safe despite how it looks. The best is to ask directly is the landlord is ok with foreigners ( it's harder for them to get their money back if you don't pay your rent). Also a lot of flats will be on the market this summer/ Septemeber. Good luck :)

[@hodonnn]

I love your videos sm ❤️‍🩹😭

[@shahed6816]

U look stunningggggg

[@raidenstark315]

I live on a 176 m2 apartment and i love it

[@patboland1650]

you got the best one enjoy.............make a plan now to buy a place.........you wont regret it

[@Billy33753]

Best of luck

[@Lisaaaa_____]

yes yes yes been waiting for this one video ! Thanks Moya 🫶🏻

[@sarahpourshadi7926]

where is this gorgeous sweater from? Any chance you have a link to it

[@absolutely_amazing_me]

Where is the white shirt your wearing from?

[@mck7067]

Can you also make a brief video about getting a flat in London? I’m desperate.

[@brightgreenleaves]

Can you please list the sites you used to find your apartment? I don’t see it in the description

[@Rinafashionista]

omg we went to paris this past december for my birthday and now we were thinking of purchasing a place I wonder if the process is just as complicated :( its probably even harder! lol geez. I love it so much out there and I really want us to have a home when we go to visit. I need to do some heavy research.

[@vanillemusc]

omg one of my friends lived in that chateau d'eau apartment for 3 years a while ago. Really great place, but rather noisy.

[@sarak1ngmoura]

Dear Moya, could you be so kind and share the realtor agencies you have reached out to? Also, how difficult is to find a place that accepts dogs?

[@lml6162]

Where is your sweater from the intro from please?

[@helloteevee]

Nice

[@lanaheroin623]

I lov your voice

[@laelakarimi]

I'm curious if you changed the way you described your work, if maybe that would have changed their perception of your dossier? Like if you said Self-Employed instead of Freelancer.

[@alittlepotato546]

Honestly, as a parisian, Chatelet seems like a nightmare to live in.

[@someonecurious7600]

Hello moya can you list some safe and not too expensive districts. I’ve been meaning to apply for masters in paris. But have no idea where to live i check your videos try to take notes of the districts you mentioned but if you can leave some under comment I would be appreciated

[@naavyabhartiya8172]

Hey! Did you have to pay for making the visits? I am currently looking for an apartment in Paris and for all the ones I applied for I was asked to pay a certain amount to make the visit

[@VeeMarieS]

I wonder if they’d consider you if you’d pay a few months in advance. I had a different finding an apartment in a good neighborhood until I offered to pay 6 months upfront. I had quite a few accepted applications. Just a thought.

[@loujane]

I was just thinking this! I don’t live in Paris but am also in a very expensive city where preference for 1 bedroom is given to couples/really rich singles. I offered to pay 12 months up front - I didn’t end up needing to do this but offering and showing proof that I could got my application accepted!

[@VeeMarieS]

@@loujane it definitely works. I think it shows that you’re not only able to pay your rent, but you’re not going to be a risk for the length of your lease. I have always paid for my lease a few months in advance since. It takes a bit of stress off of me ever since I’ve made this a habit.

[@malgosiakaczmarska8036]

I think the guarantor is only required if you don’t make 3x the rent. I never needed one even though I was brand new to France, but I did have a CDI contract, and was making x3+ the rent. Maybe that’s why….?

[@christinek_]

Hi Moya ! How long did it take for you to find your apartment ? Do you reckon staying at an airbnb/accom for a month would be enough time to find a place as a foreigner ? 💜

[@nim_19]

I think it took her at least 3 months 😭 but she said she was quite picky and didn’t apply for some apartments because they weren’t perfect so if you widen your search you may find something quicker

[@christinek_]

@@nim_19 thank you !! 🫶

[@eloisejoessel2463]

Does anyone know where I can find the exact same earrings as her but in gold ?

[@simianec4507]

but wait where are you now? is it le marais? and how did you get it? did i miss something? congrats ;)

[@mariacamilaparedescorrea5301]

I'm in shock, ITS SOOOOOOOOOOO EXPENSIVE and i thought Belgium was.

[@isobelcoen9238]

Which agencies accepted your dossier? I am also a foreign freelancer and keep getting told that they won't accept freelancers with less than three years of activity :(

[@schirley1267]

try to find a company of "portage salariale". you'll still be a freelancer but have a permanent contract with payslips. Easier that way I swear.

[@enjoyingmyvodka1013]

What if your living on a trust? What do I need to get to prove income?

[@DawniePerry]

Chateau d'eau is not dodgey ;)

[@parapluie9]

Moya - hoping you see this comment and can tell me where your beautiful sweater is from that you're wearing here? ❤