When someone arrives in a new place, they want to settle in, have a home, and find a place to live. Hostels and reception houses are legal and necessary, but they serve as temporary residences.
The idea is that people stay in these hostels and reception houses only for a while, and then find a place to live and call their own, even if it's a rental, as long as they can afford it.
A good tip is to ask people from the host home how to do this.
Another option is to inquire with other foreigners who have already managed to settle into houses; they can advise you on the safest and best way to secure a house within your budget that is also a secure and suitable place.
A tip: be cautious of strangers who approach you pretending to be friends; they might be individuals offering seemingly easier services, asking for money in advance to mediate.
Such individuals often keep the money without resolving your issue. If you're looking to rent a place, you can also seek out a company called “Imobiliária,” as they offer accredited realtors (registered with CRECI).
Alternatively, if you come across a "aluga-se (for rent)" sign and you like the place, jot down the phone number and ask someone to call; it could be the property owner's number.
In Brazil, payment for purchases or rentals should only be made after the contract is signed and authenticated (either in person at a notary or digitally), or when the goods are delivered. It is never recommended to pay before receiving.
Once you have rented your home, to have the water and electricity bill registered in your name, you don't need to pay intermediaries to do this for you.
Simply take your rental agreement along with your personal documents and visit any of the “Casas da Cidadania”. There, you can approach the CAGEPA (water) and ENERGISA (electric energy) counters, and they will transfer the bills into your name for free.
