What should I know before choosing a villa instead of an apartment?

Ask how the air conditioning works and how it is billed. Check the condition of the roof, windows, plumbing, water pressure and AC, and look for signs of leaks, damp or pests. For a private garden or pool, confirm who maintains it, who pays and whether an existing service contract will continue.

Get maintenance responsibilities clearly recorded in your tenancy agreement. Confirm how repairs are reported, whether any maintenance payment threshold applies and who handles irrigation, pumps, gates and other equipment. A larger property means more systems to inspect and potentially more appointments to coordinate.

Check the location as carefully as the home itself. Test work and school journeys, assess nearby shops and transport, and confirm parking and visitor access. In a managed community, ask about move-in permits, contractor approvals, pet rules and restrictions on alterations or outdoor use.

If you have children or pets, inspect stairs, balconies, boundary walls, gates and pool access. Confirm permission before arranging any safety installations. Also check outdoor lighting, waste collection and internet availability at the exact property.

A villa should fit your daily routine as well as your furniture.