Rentals in Santa Marta

Usually proof of income — recent bank statements or an employment letter —, either a guarantor or a rental insurance policy backing the payments, and signing the contract. Policies are now more common than guarantors because they save you asking a third party for a favour.

Almost never. Rent is rent; the building fee and utilities are separate unless the listing says otherwise. In the southern-corridor complexes the building fee is significant because it covers pools, common areas and security, so it is worth asking before deciding.

Urban housing contracts are usually signed for twelve months and renew automatically unless either party gives the agreed notice. Rent can be adjusted once a year within the cap set by law, calculated on the previous year's inflation.

Colombian urban housing law does not allow cash deposits to guarantee rent payment. That role is played by the insurance policy or the guarantor. Paying the first month in advance is normal.

Yes, and it is common in the sea-view complexes of Santa Marta. Furnished rent is higher and the contract usually includes a signed inventory of furniture and appliances. If you are looking for less than a month, you want a short-term stay, not a rental contract.