If you are an ESL teacher looking for the best resource to teach housing expressions, you’ve come to the right place. This post gives you 100 common housing expressions that your students need to know to talk confidently about homes, apartments, and living situations.
Teaching housing expressions helps students join real-life conversations about finding a place to live, asking questions, and sharing experiences. These expressions are simple but very useful for everyday speaking. You don’t need to use difficult vocabulary or idioms to make your class interesting.
In this post, you will find expressions that can be easily used in role-plays, debates, and classroom conversations. They will help your students practice important questions and answers about housing. This makes your lesson plans stronger and your classes more engaging.
Whether you want to design speaking activities or create vocabulary lists, these housing expressions will save you time and effort. Your students will gain confidence by practicing phrases that people actually use when talking about housing.
Keep reading to discover this ultimate list and get ready to make your ESL housing lessons more practical, fun, and meaningful!
Table of Contents
Why Housing Expressions Are Important in ESL Learning
Housing expressions are very important for ESL learners because everyone needs to talk about where they live. Whether students are looking for an apartment, renting a house, or just talking about their home, these expressions help them communicate clearly.
Knowing housing expressions helps students in real-life situations. For example, they can ask important questions when visiting a place to live. They can also explain their needs and understand what others say about housing.
Teaching housing expressions gives students confidence to speak English in everyday life. It makes learning more practical and useful. When students practice these expressions, they get ready for conversations they will have outside the classroom.
For ESL teachers, using housing expressions in lessons makes teaching easier and more effective. It helps students build important speaking skills step by step. This is why housing expressions are a key part of learning English.
100 Housing Expressions for ESL Students
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this post—the ultimate list of 100 common housing expressions. These are the phrases your students will hear and use every day when talking about homes, apartments, and renting. Use this list to help your students build practical speaking skills and feel confident in housing-related conversations.
1. I’m looking for a place to live.
Context (When to Use):
Use this expression when you want to tell someone that you need to find a new home or apartment. It is often used when starting a conversation with landlords, real estate agents, or friends who might help.
Example Sentences:
a) “I’m looking for a place to live near the city center.”
b) “Can you help me? I’m looking for a place to live with two bedrooms.”
c) “I’m looking for a place to live because my lease is ending soon.”
2. Do you have any available apartments?
Context (When to Use):
Use this when asking a landlord or rental agent if they have any apartments open for rent. It is a common question during an apartment search.
Example Sentences:
a) “Hi, do you have any available apartments for next month?”
b) “Do you have any available apartments that allow pets?”
c) “I’m interested in your building. Do you have any available apartments right now?”
3. How much is the rent?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this question to find out the cost of renting a house or apartment. It’s an important part of the rental conversation.
Example Sentences:
a) “How much is the rent for a one-bedroom apartment?”
b) “Can you tell me how much the rent is each month?”
c) “I want to know how much the rent will be before I decide.”
4. Is the rent negotiable?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question when you want to know if the landlord is willing to lower the rent or offer a better price.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the rent negotiable if I sign a longer lease?”
b) “Can we discuss the rent price? Is it negotiable at all?”
c) “Is the rent negotiable for students or low-income tenants?”
5. When is the rent due?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out the deadline for paying rent each month. It helps avoid late payments.
Example Sentences:
a) “When is the rent due each month?”
b) “Can you tell me when the rent is due to avoid any late fees?”
c) “I want to make sure I pay on time. When is the rent due?”
6. Is the deposit refundable?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this question to check if the security deposit you pay will be returned to you after you move out.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the deposit refundable if I leave the apartment in good condition?”
b) “Can you confirm if the deposit is refundable?”
c) “I want to know if the deposit refundable before signing the lease.”
7. Can I see the place?
Context (When to Use):
Use this expression when you want to schedule a visit to look at the apartment or house before deciding.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I see the place this weekend?”
b) “Is it possible to schedule a time to see the place?”
c) “I’m interested. Can I see the place in person before applying?”
8. How many bedrooms does it have?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out the number of bedrooms in a house or apartment. This helps you decide if it fits your needs.
Example Sentences:
a) “How many bedrooms does the apartment have?”
b) “Can you tell me how many bedrooms the house has?”
c) “I need at least two bedrooms. How many bedrooms does it have?”
9. Is it fully furnished?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to know if the apartment or house comes with furniture included.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the apartment fully furnished, or do I need to bring my own furniture?”
b) “I prefer a fully furnished place. Is this apartment fully furnished?”
c) “Is it fully furnished, or just partially furnished?”
10. Does it come with appliances?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out if the house or apartment includes kitchen and laundry appliances.
Example Sentences:
a) “Does the apartment come with appliances like a stove and refrigerator?”
b) “Are appliances included, or do I need to buy them?”
c) “Does it come with appliances such as a washer and dryer?”
11. Is there parking available?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out if there is a parking space for your car.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there parking available for tenants?”
b) “Do you have any parking spots available with the apartment?”
c) “Is there parking available nearby, or do I have to park on the street?”
12. Are utilities included in the rent?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to know if costs like water, electricity, and gas are part of the rent price.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are utilities included in the rent, or do I pay separately?”
b) “Does the rent cover utilities like water and electricity?”
c) “I want to know if utilities are included in the rent amount.”
13. What’s the neighborhood like?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to learn about the area around the house or apartment, such as safety, noise, and friendliness.
Example Sentences:
a) “What’s the neighborhood like? Is it safe?”
b) “Can you tell me what the neighborhood is like?”
c) “I’m interested in the apartment, but what’s the neighborhood like?”
14. Is it close to public transportation?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out if buses, trains, or other public transport options are nearby.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the apartment close to public transportation?”
b) “How far is it from the nearest bus stop or subway station?”
c) “Is it easy to get around without a car? Is it close to public transportation?”
15. How long is the lease term?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to learn about the length of the rental agreement.
Example Sentences:
a) “How long is the lease term for this apartment?”
b) “Is the lease term six months or one year?”
c) “Can you tell me how long the lease term is?”
16. Can I have pets here?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this question if you want to know whether pets like dogs or cats are allowed in the apartment or building.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I have pets here, or is it a pet-free building?”
b) “Are pets allowed in the apartment?”
c) “I have a small dog. Can I have pets here?”
17. Are there any extra fees?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to check if there are additional charges besides rent, such as maintenance fees or parking fees.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there any extra fees besides the rent?”
b) “Do you charge extra fees for parking or pets?”
c) “I want to know if there are any extra fees before signing the lease.”
18. Is the building safe?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out if the apartment building or area is secure and has safety features.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the building safe at night?”
b) “Can you tell me if the building is safe for families?”
c) “Is the building safe with security guards or cameras?”
19. How is the heating and cooling system?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to learn about the quality and type of heating and air conditioning in the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “How is the heating and cooling system in the apartment?”
b) “Does the apartment have central heating and air conditioning?”
c) “Is the heating and cooling system efficient?”
20. Is there a laundry room?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the building or apartment complex has a shared or private laundry area.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a laundry room in the building?”
b) “Do I need to use a laundry room, or is there a washer in the apartment?”
c) “Is the laundry room open 24 hours?”
21. Are there any schools nearby?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question if you want to know about schools close to the apartment, especially if you have children.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there any schools nearby for my children?”
b) “Can you tell me if there are schools close to this apartment?”
c) “Are there good schools nearby?”
22. How far is it from work?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out the distance or travel time between the apartment and your workplace.
Example Sentences:
a) “How far is it from work to this apartment?”
b) “Can you tell me how long the commute is from here to my job?”
c) “Is it easy to get to work from this location?”
23. Is the area noisy?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out if the neighborhood or building is quiet or loud.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the area noisy during the day or night?”
b) “Can you tell me if the neighborhood is noisy?”
c) “I prefer a quiet place. Is the area noisy?”
24. Can I make changes to the apartment?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if you are allowed to make modifications like painting walls or installing shelves.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I make changes to the apartment, like painting the walls?”
b) “Am I allowed to hang pictures or put up shelves?”
c) “Can I make changes to the apartment, or do I need permission?”
25. Are there rules about visitors?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to understand if there are restrictions on guests visiting you.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there any rules about visitors in the building?”
b) “Can my friends visit me anytime, or are there limits?”
c) “Are overnight guests allowed here?”
26. What is the parking situation?
Context (When to Use):
Ask to learn about available parking options and any related rules.
Example Sentences:
a) “What is the parking situation for tenants?”
b) “Is parking easy to find around the building?”
c) “Can you explain the parking situation?”
27. Can I get a parking spot?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to ask if you can reserve or have a parking space.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I get a parking spot with the apartment?”
b) “Is it possible to rent a parking spot here?”
c) “Can I get a parking spot included with my lease?”
28. Is the apartment on the ground floor?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to know the apartment’s floor level, which can affect accessibility and convenience.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the apartment on the ground floor or higher?”
b) “I need a ground-floor apartment. Is this one on the ground floor?”
c) “Can you tell me if the apartment is on the ground floor?”
29. Is there an elevator?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the building has an elevator, especially important for higher floors or those with mobility issues.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there an elevator in the building?”
b) “Does the building have an elevator to reach the upper floors?”
c) “I have heavy luggage. Is there an elevator here?”
30. How old is the building?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out the age of the apartment building, which can impact condition and safety.
Example Sentences:
a) “How old is the building?”
b) “Can you tell me when the building was constructed?”
c) “Is the building new or old?”
31. Has it been renovated recently?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the building or apartment has been updated or repaired lately.
Example Sentences:
a) “Has the apartment been renovated recently?”
b) “Is the building renovated or still in original condition?”
c) “When was the last renovation done?”
32. Is the kitchen big enough?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out if the kitchen space suits your cooking needs.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the kitchen big enough for a family?”
b) “Can you tell me if the kitchen is spacious?”
c) “Is the kitchen big enough to fit all my appliances?”
33. Can I install air conditioning?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if you are allowed to add an air conditioning unit yourself.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I install air conditioning in the apartment?”
b) “Is it okay to put in a window AC unit?”
c) “Do I need permission to install air conditioning?”
34. How is the water pressure?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this question to find out if the water flow in the apartment is strong and reliable.
Example Sentences:
a) “How is the water pressure in the shower?”
b) “Can you tell me if the water pressure is good throughout the apartment?”
c) “Is the water pressure strong enough for multiple bathrooms?”
35. Are pets allowed?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to confirm whether pets can live in the apartment or building.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are pets allowed in this building?”
b) “I have a cat. Are pets allowed here?”
c) “Can I bring my dog? Are pets allowed?”
36. How do I apply for the apartment?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to learn about the process for submitting an application to rent.
Example Sentences:
a) “How do I apply for the apartment?”
b) “Can you explain the application process?”
c) “What steps do I need to take to apply?”
37. What documents do I need to provide?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out what paperwork is required for the rental application.
Example Sentences:
a) “What documents do I need to provide for the application?”
b) “Do I need proof of income or ID?”
c) “Can you tell me what documents are required?”
38. Do you do credit checks?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out if the landlord or agent will check your credit history.
Example Sentences:
a) “Do you do credit checks for applicants?”
b) “Is a credit check part of the application process?”
c) “Will my credit history affect my application?”
39. What is the application fee?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to learn if there is a fee to apply and how much it costs.
Example Sentences:
a) “What is the application fee?”
b) “Do I have to pay an application fee?”
c) “Can you tell me the cost of the application fee?”
40. Can I move in right away?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to check if the apartment is available immediately.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I move in right away, or is there a waiting period?”
b) “Is the apartment ready for me to move in now?”
c) “Can I move in right away if I sign the lease today?”
41. When can I move in?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out the earliest date you can start living in the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “When can I move in if I apply now?”
b) “Can you tell me the move-in date?”
c) “When is the apartment available to move in?”
42. Is subletting allowed?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if you can rent the apartment to someone else temporarily while you are away.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is subletting allowed in the lease agreement?”
b) “Can I sublet the apartment if I go out of town?”
c) “Is it okay to have a subtenant?”
43. What is the guest policy?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to understand the rules about visitors staying in the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “What is the guest policy here?”
b) “Are guests allowed to stay overnight?”
c) “How long can visitors stay?”
44. Who is responsible for maintenance?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to know whether the landlord or tenant takes care of repairs and upkeep.
Example Sentences:
a) “Who is responsible for maintenance in the apartment?”
b) “Does the landlord handle repairs, or do tenants?”
c) “Who should I contact if something breaks?”
45. How do I report repairs?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to learn the process for notifying about maintenance issues.
Example Sentences:
a) “How do I report repairs when something is broken?”
b) “Is there a number to call for repairs?”
c) “What is the procedure to request maintenance?”
46. Is there 24-hour maintenance?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if repair services are available at any time, especially for emergencies.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there 24-hour maintenance in case of emergencies?”
b) “Can I get repairs done at night if needed?”
c) “Is maintenance available around the clock?”
47. How long does it take to get repairs done?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out the typical wait time for fixing problems.
Example Sentences:
a) “How long does it usually take to get repairs done?”
b) “What is the average time for maintenance to fix issues?”
c) “Can you tell me how quickly repairs are handled?”
48. Are there any common areas?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the building has shared spaces like lounges or gardens.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there any common areas in the building?”
b) “Can tenants use a shared lounge or garden?”
c) “What kind of common areas are available?”
49. Is there a gym in the building?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out if there is a fitness center available for residents.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a gym in the building?”
b) “Can residents use the gym anytime?”
c) “Is the gym free for tenants?”
50. Is there a swimming pool?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the apartment complex has a pool you can use.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a swimming pool in the building?”
b) “Can residents access the pool?”
c) “Is the pool open year-round?”
51. Can I use the facilities anytime?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if shared amenities like the gym or pool are available 24/7.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I use the gym and pool anytime?”
b) “Are the facilities open all day?”
c) “Is there a time limit for using the building facilities?”
52. Are there storage spaces available?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out if extra storage areas are provided for tenants.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there storage spaces available for tenants?”
b) “Can I rent a storage locker?”
c) “Is extra storage included or available nearby?”
53. How is the internet connection?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this question to know about the quality and speed of the internet service in the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “How is the internet connection in the building?”
b) “Is the apartment wired for high-speed internet?”
c) “Can I get a reliable internet connection here?”
54. Is cable TV included?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to find out if cable television service is part of the rent or requires separate payment.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is cable TV included in the rent?”
b) “Do I need to pay extra for cable TV?”
c) “Is cable TV available in the apartment?”
55. Is smoking allowed inside?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to learn if smoking is permitted inside the apartment or building.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is smoking allowed inside the apartment?”
b) “Can tenants smoke on the balcony or indoors?”
c) “Is smoking banned in the building?”
56. What is the policy on noise?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to understand rules about noise levels and quiet hours.
Example Sentences:
a) “What is the policy on noise in the building?”
b) “Are there quiet hours I need to follow?”
c) “Is loud music allowed in the apartment?”
57. How do I cancel the lease?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to learn the process for ending your rental contract early.
Example Sentences:
a) “How do I cancel the lease if I need to move out?”
b) “What is the procedure to cancel the lease?”
c) “Can I cancel the lease without a penalty?”
58. What happens if I break the lease?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to understand the consequences of ending the lease before it expires.
Example Sentences:
a) “What happens if I break the lease early?”
b) “Are there penalties if I break the lease?”
c) “Can I lose my deposit if I break the lease?”
59. Can I extend my lease?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if you can continue renting the apartment after the lease term ends.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I extend my lease for another year?”
b) “Is it possible to renew or extend the lease?”
c) “How do I apply to extend my lease?”
60. Is renters insurance required?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to ask if you must have insurance to protect your belongings.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is renters insurance required by the landlord?”
b) “Do I need to buy renters insurance before moving in?”
c) “Can you tell me if renters insurance is mandatory?”
61. Who pays for utilities?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to clarify who is responsible for paying bills like electricity and water.
Example Sentences:
a) “Who pays for utilities, the landlord or tenant?”
b) “Are utilities included, or do I pay separately?”
c) “Can you tell me who is responsible for utility bills?”
62. Is the apartment pet-friendly?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to check if the apartment welcomes pets.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the apartment pet-friendly?”
b) “Can I bring my dog? Is it pet-friendly?”
c) “Are there any pet restrictions for this apartment?”
63. Are there parks nearby?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if there are green spaces or parks near the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there parks nearby where I can walk my dog?”
b) “Is there a park close to the building?”
c) “Can you tell me if there are parks in the neighborhood?”
64. How do I pay the rent?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about the methods available for paying rent.
Example Sentences:
a) “How do I pay the rent each month?”
b) “Can I pay rent online or by check?”
c) “What payment options are available for rent?”
65. Can I pay online?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to find out if there is an online system for paying rent.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I pay rent online through a website?”
b) “Is there an option to pay rent electronically?”
c) “Can I use my credit card to pay rent online?”
66. When is the rent late fee charged?
Context (When to Use):
Ask to know the date when a late fee applies if rent is unpaid.
Example Sentences:
a) “When is the rent late fee charged?”
b) “How many days after the due date do I get charged a late fee?”
c) “Can you tell me when the late fee starts?”
67. How much is the late fee?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out the amount charged for late rent payment.
Example Sentences:
a) “How much is the late fee if I pay after the due date?”
b) “Can you tell me the amount of the rent late fee?”
c) “Is the late fee a fixed amount or a percentage?”
68. Is there a penalty for early termination?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if there are fines for ending the lease before its official end.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a penalty for early termination of the lease?”
b) “What happens if I want to leave before the lease ends?”
c) “Do I have to pay a fee for early lease termination?”
69. What appliances are included?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to find out which household appliances come with the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “What appliances are included in the apartment?”
b) “Does it come with a refrigerator and stove?”
c) “Are the washer and dryer included?”
70. Does it have central heating?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the apartment has a central heating system to keep it warm.
Example Sentences:
a) “Does the apartment have central heating?”
b) “Is central heating available for the whole apartment?”
c) “How is the heating system? Is it central heating?”
71. Is the apartment well insulated?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to know if the apartment keeps heat and cold out effectively.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the apartment well insulated to save energy?”
b) “Does the insulation keep the apartment warm in winter?”
c) “Is the apartment insulated against noise and weather?”
72. Are there blinds or curtains?
Context (When to Use):
Ask this to find out if window coverings like blinds or curtains are already installed.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there blinds or curtains on the windows?”
b) “Does the apartment come with window coverings?”
c) “Will I need to buy blinds or curtains?”
73. Is there enough natural light?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to know if the apartment gets sufficient sunlight during the day.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there enough natural light in the living room?”
b) “Does the apartment get plenty of sunlight?”
c) “I prefer bright spaces. Is there enough natural light?”
74. How often is the garbage collected?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about the schedule for trash pickup in the building or neighborhood.
Example Sentences:
a) “How often is the garbage collected here?”
b) “Is trash picked up weekly or more often?”
c) “Can you tell me the garbage collection days?”
75. Are there recycling facilities?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to find out if there are bins or systems for recycling.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there recycling facilities available for tenants?”
b) “Can I recycle paper and plastic here?”
c) “Is recycling encouraged in the building?”
76. Are there bike racks?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if there are places to securely park bicycles.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there bike racks on the property?”
b) “Can I park my bicycle safely here?”
c) “Are bike racks available for tenants?”
77. What kind of flooring does it have?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to know the type of floors like carpet, wood, or tile.
Example Sentences:
a) “What kind of flooring does the apartment have?”
b) “Is the floor hardwood or carpet?”
c) “Does the apartment have tile flooring in the kitchen?”
78. Is there a balcony or patio?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the apartment includes an outdoor space like a balcony or patio.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a balcony or patio I can use?”
b) “Does the apartment have any outdoor space?”
c) “Can I step outside on a balcony or patio?”
79. Are the windows double-paned?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to know if windows are designed to improve insulation and reduce noise.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are the windows double-paned for better insulation?”
b) “Do the windows help block outside noise?”
c) “Are the windows energy-efficient double panes?”
80. How is the air quality inside?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about ventilation and whether the air inside the apartment is fresh.
Example Sentences:
a) “How is the air quality inside the apartment?”
b) “Does the apartment have good ventilation?”
c) “Is the air inside fresh and clean?”
81. Can I paint the walls?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to ask if you can change the wall color.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I paint the walls in my favorite color?”
b) “Am I allowed to paint the walls?”
c) “Do I need permission to paint the apartment walls?”
82. Is the apartment wheelchair accessible?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the apartment and building are suitable for people using wheelchairs.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is the apartment wheelchair accessible?”
b) “Are there ramps and wide doors for wheelchair access?”
c) “Can someone in a wheelchair live comfortably here?”
83. Are there any restrictions on decorations?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to learn if there are rules about hanging pictures or other decorations.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there any restrictions on decorating the apartment?”
b) “Can I hang pictures or put up shelves?”
c) “Is there a limit on how I can decorate?”
84. How many people can live here?
Context (When to Use):
Ask to know the maximum number of tenants allowed.
Example Sentences:
a) “How many people can live in this apartment?”
b) “Is there a limit on the number of residents?”
c) “Can my family of four live here?”
85. Is it suitable for families?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to check if the apartment is a good fit for families with children.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is this apartment suitable for families?”
b) “Are families with children welcome here?”
c) “Is it safe and comfortable for families?”
86. Is it quiet at night?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about the noise level during nighttime.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is it quiet at night in this building?”
b) “Can I expect peace and quiet after 10 PM?”
c) “Is noise a problem during the night?”
87. How far is the nearest grocery store?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to find out where you can buy food and essentials.
Example Sentences:
a) “How far is the nearest grocery store from here?”
b) “Is there a supermarket within walking distance?”
c) “Can I easily get groceries nearby?”
88. Is there a bus stop nearby?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if public transportation is close.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a bus stop near the apartment?”
b) “How close is the nearest bus stop?”
c) “Can I catch a bus easily from here?”
89. Can I use a credit card to pay?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if credit card payments are accepted for rent or fees.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I use a credit card to pay the rent?”
b) “Are credit card payments accepted for fees?”
c) “Is there an option to pay by credit card?”
90. How do I get my deposit back?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to understand the process of getting your security deposit refunded.
Example Sentences:
a) “How do I get my deposit back when I move out?”
b) “What is the procedure for returning the deposit?”
c) “When will I receive my deposit refund?”
91. Can I have a roommate?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if sharing the apartment with another person is allowed.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I have a roommate in this apartment?”
b) “Is it okay to share the apartment with someone else?”
c) “Are roommates allowed under the lease?”
92. Is guest parking available?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to ask if visitors can park their cars nearby.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is guest parking available for visitors?”
b) “Can my friends park their cars here?”
c) “Are there parking spots for guests?”
93. Are there security cameras?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about security measures like cameras in the building.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are there security cameras around the building?”
b) “Is the property monitored by cameras?”
c) “Do security cameras help keep the building safe?”
94. How secure are the doors and windows?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about the strength and safety of entry points.
Example Sentences:
a) “How secure are the doors and windows?”
b) “Do the doors have good locks?”
c) “Are the windows strong and safe?”
95. Is there a doorman or security guard?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the building has staff for security or assistance.
Example Sentences:
a) “Is there a doorman in the building?”
b) “Are security guards on site?”
c) “Does the building have 24-hour security?”
96. Can I lock my own mailbox?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if you can secure your mail with a lock.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I lock my own mailbox?”
b) “Is the mailbox secure?”
c) “Do tenants have individual mailbox locks?”
97. Are the neighbors friendly?
Context (When to Use):
Use this question to learn about the community atmosphere.
Example Sentences:
a) “Are the neighbors friendly here?”
b) “Is it a welcoming community?”
c) “Do tenants get along well?”
98. How often does the landlord inspect the apartment?
Context (When to Use):
Ask about the frequency of landlord visits for inspection.
Example Sentences:
a) “How often does the landlord inspect the apartment?”
b) “Will the landlord visit regularly?”
c) “Are inspections monthly or yearly?”
99. What is the move-out procedure?
Context (When to Use):
Use this to know the steps needed when leaving the apartment.
Example Sentences:
a) “What is the move-out procedure?”
b) “Do I need to give notice before moving out?”
c) “How do I return the keys when I leave?”
100. Can I renew my lease automatically?
Context (When to Use):
Ask if the lease can be extended without signing a new contract.
Example Sentences:
a) “Can I renew my lease automatically?”
b) “Does the lease renew itself each year?”
c) “Is there an automatic renewal option for the lease?”
Engaging YouTube Video Ideas to Teach Housing Expressions
Creating YouTube videos is a great way to help ESL students learn housing expressions in a fun and visual way. Videos make lessons more interesting and help students remember the expressions better.
One idea is to make role-play videos where two people talk about renting an apartment or visiting a new home. This shows students how to use expressions in real conversations.
You can also create “Question and Answer” videos where common housing questions are asked and answered clearly. This helps students practice important phrases for asking about apartments.
Another idea is to film a virtual apartment tour, describing the rooms and features using housing expressions. This gives students real-life context and new vocabulary.
You can make quizzes or challenge videos asking students to guess the meaning of different housing expressions. This keeps learners active and engaged.
Finally, creating videos that compare housing expressions from different English-speaking countries can be interesting. It helps students understand variations and cultural differences in housing talk.
Using these video ideas will make teaching housing expressions more dynamic and fun for both teachers and students.
Conclusion
Housing expressions are a valuable part of learning English for ESL students. They help learners talk about everyday situations related to homes and apartments. By teaching these expressions, you prepare your students for real conversations they will have in their daily lives.
Using common housing expressions in your lessons makes learning practical and engaging. It helps students build confidence and improves their speaking skills. This resource gives you a strong foundation to create interesting activities and role-plays around housing topics.
Remember, practicing these expressions regularly will help students become more comfortable and fluent in English. Incorporate them into your ESL classes, and you will see positive results in your students’ communication abilities.
FAQs about using housing expressions in ESL class
How can I introduce housing expressions to my students?
You can start by using simple conversations and real-life scenarios. Role-plays and question-answer activities work well to help students practice.
What is the best way to help students remember housing expressions?
Repetition and practice are key. Use games, dialogues, and speaking drills to make the expressions stick.
Can housing expressions be used with beginners?
Yes, many housing expressions are simple and useful for beginners. You can choose easier expressions first and gradually introduce more complex ones.
How do I create engaging activities using housing expressions?
Try role-plays, debates, or group discussions based on real housing situations. This makes learning fun and practical.
Should I focus only on expressions, or also teach related vocabulary?
Both are important. Expressions help students speak naturally, while vocabulary builds their overall language skills.
Are housing expressions helpful for all ESL levels?
Yes, you can adapt the expressions and activities to fit beginner, intermediate, or advanced learners.
Can I combine housing expressions with other topics?
Definitely. You can link housing expressions with topics like shopping, transportation, or daily routines to make lessons more connected.
How often should students practice housing expressions?
Regular practice is best. Try to include housing expressions in lessons multiple times to reinforce learning.
Is it useful to teach cultural differences related to housing?
Yes, understanding cultural aspects helps students use expressions appropriately in different contexts.
Where can I find more resources to teach housing expressions?
Look for ESL websites, textbooks, and teaching forums that offer lesson plans, worksheets, and activities on housing topics.
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