In Bangladesh, finding a suitable home for rent—commonly referred to as “to let”—is a common concern for students, job holders, families, and even business owners. Whether you're searching for a flat in Dhaka, a house in Chittagong, or a commercial space in Sylhet, understanding the local rental culture and terms like “basa vara” and “barivara” is essential.

What Does “To Let” Mean in Bangladesh?

In English, "to let" simply means "available for rent." In Bangladeshi cities and towns, you’ll often see signs on buildings or walls with "TO LET" written in bold, indicating that a space—be it residential or commercial—is available for rent. These signs are often accompanied by phone numbers or details of the type of accommodation.

Understanding Basa Vara (বাসা ভাড়া)

“Basa vara” is a Bengali term that translates to "house rent" in English. This typically refers to renting a flat or a residential space. In cities like Dhaka or Khulna, people use this term when they're looking for or offering residential accommodations.

Common Types of Basa Vara:

• Single-room rental: Suitable for students or bachelors.

• Family flats: 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, or larger units.

• Sublets: Often a room within a shared flat.

People usually find basa vara options through:

• Online property websites (e.g., Bikroy, Bproperty)

• Social media groups

• Local newspaper ads

• Word of mouth from relatives or colleagues

What is Barivara (বাড়িভাড়া)?

“Barivara”, another Bengali phrase, literally means “house rent” too but is more commonly used for renting a full house or larger property, often in suburban or rural areas. The term is interchangeable with basa vara, but barivara sometimes implies a more permanent or long-term arrangement.

For example, in areas like Uttara or Savar, people often search for barivara when they want to move their whole family to a standalone house rather than just a flat.

Key Factors to Consider Before Renting (To Let) in Bangladesh

1. Location: Choose based on workplace, school, transport, and safety.

2. Rent Price: Monthly basa vara or barivara can vary widely from Tk 5,000 to Tk 50,000+ depending on the area.

3. Utility Bills: Clarify whether electricity, gas, water, and maintenance charges are included.

4. Agreement Terms: Always sign a rent agreement. Include duration, rent amount, and notice period.

5. Advance Payment: Most landlords ask for 2-3 months' rent in advance.

6. Broker Fees: If you use an agent to find a to let property, expect to pay one month’s rent as commission.

Where to Find To Let Listings in Bangladesh

• Online Platforms: Websites like Bikroy, Bproperty, and Lamudi have filters for to let, basa vara, and barivara.

• Facebook Groups: Many groups cater to flat rentals in Dhaka, Chittagong, and other major cities.

• Local Markets: Walk around neighborhoods and look for "TO LET" signs on buildings.

Tips for Landlords Offering Barivara or Basa Vara

If you’re a homeowner looking to rent out your property:

• Place a clear "TO LET" sign on your gate or wall.

• Mention whether it's basa vara or barivara to attract the right tenants.

• Post on online marketplaces with detailed information and photos.

• Screen potential tenants and sign a proper rental agreement.

Conclusion

Whether you are a tenant searching for basa vara, a homeowner posting a to let sign, or a business owner seeking barivara for office use, understanding the local rental terminology is key. The demand for rental properties in Bangladesh continues to rise, especially in urban areas. By staying informed and cautious, both tenants and landlords can ensure a smooth and secure rental experience.