In Odessa, it is worth staying at least for a few days.
Renting an apartment for a day or longer, quickly and at a low price, is a dream not only of any newcomer but also of locals who are used to solving housing issues by renting an apartment. But if you are renting an apartment for the first time, there is a chance of becoming bait for an information agency, whose ads are plastered on every pole.
But let's not talk about the scary stuff. If you do everything right, listening to recommendations from experienced people, you can avoid these troubles. Rental prices currently range from $30 to $70, depending on living conditions.
Most Odessa companies provide dormitory accommodation for their employees. Consequently, to get an apartment there, you need to become a driver, conductor, elevator operator, etc. The phone numbers of such dormitories can be found in a special telephone directory (cost from 5 hryvnias), because the dormitory administration does not leave phone numbers on fences. If a person is not an elevator operator or a driver, then by calling this number, they almost 100% likely end up in an information agency.
These fake agencies operate according to the following scheme. After signing a contract with the agency, you must pay an amount roughly equal to 70 hryvnias. Then an employee calls the dormitory and arranges for check-in. This means the agency has received the money, but whether you have received housing is unknown.
Suppose you know the dormitory address. That means you immediately run to see the new apartment. You are very lucky if it actually exists. Otherwise, it will be interesting to watch the superintendent throw up his hands, not understanding what is being discussed. What kind of madman is demanding an apartment from him? No one called him, he knows nothing! Going back to the agency is pointless. No one will return your money.
But, besides information agencies, there are also real estate agencies. They constantly update their database. As a rule, upon a client's request, they immediately select several apartments so that the client can choose the best option. Then, agents accompany the client to view the apartment, where they are actually expected.
To sum up: a real estate agency will never demand money upfront without showing the property. In information agencies, it's the opposite. At a real estate agency, if a client for some reason does not like an apartment, they will find a secondary option. As you can see, there is a difference! Think and decide where it's best to go.