When you first move to Barbados it is often easier to rent before buying – there are agents who deal in both long and short term rentals. These may be expensive as many of them are aimed at the tourist market but many places will offer lower prices to tenants who wish to rent for a longer term.

There are a large number of advertisements on the internet for rental agencies as well as estate agents so finding property should not be too difficult. Local newspapers are also a good source of advertisements for property. There is also usually plenty of choice as to whether to rent furnished, part furnished or unfurnished. It is also not normally too difficult to find the type of property you want as they range from small flats or villas equipped with swimming pools. Many of the properties available are near to the beach if not actually on it but be aware that the nearer to the beach they are the more expensive the rent will be.

When renting you will usually be expected to pay the first and last months rent as a deposit as well as approximately $800 to cover utilities. It is a good idea to ask for the last 12 months electricity bills as you need to have some idea of how much your air conditioning will cost you as electricity tariffs are expensive.

Many of the apartments are in blocks and have the advantage of having a laundry on site. Leases are easily extended and most furnished apartments seem to have a good quality of furnishings supplied. If it is required there are also apartments and villas that have facilities for the disabled such as wheelchair ramps.

Having domestic help is the norm in Barbados and it is not difficult to get this help although it is necessary to find someone who you can get on with. If you have help you need to know that should they work more than 15 hours per week you will need to register with the Exchange Control Authority of Barbados so that they are eligible for welfare payments.

Recycling is still at an early stage in Barbados although there is some done, glass bottles, plastic bottles, aluminium cans, car batteries and cooking oil and newspaper can be recycled although you may have to take the items to the points of collection. Recycling is not yet compulsory for tenants.