Finding a place to live in Germany can be a challenge, especially for newcomers. As a Chancenkarte holder, here are some useful tips to help you secure housing and settle in quickly.
Understanding the German Housing Market
The housing market in Germany is highly competitive, especially in major cities like Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt. There are two main options:
✔ Renting (Miete) – The most common option for newcomers.
✔ Buying (Kauf) – Usually considered after several years of residence.
💡 Tip: Start your search as early as possible since demand is high.
Where to Search for Housing?
Several online platforms are widely used to find apartments or shared housing:
🏡 Popular Websites:
- Immobilienscout24 (www.immobilienscout24.de)
- WG-Gesucht (www.wg-gesucht.de) – Ideal for shared housing
- Immowelt (www.immowelt.de)
- Ebay Kleinanzeigen (www.ebay-kleinanzeigen.de)
💡 Tip: Check Facebook groups and local newspaper ads for more options.
Required Documents for Renting
To convince a landlord to rent to you, you need to prepare a strong application with:
✔ Passport or residence permit
✔ Proof of income or employment contract
✔ Schufa (German credit history check)
✔ Proof of previous rent payments (if applicable)
✔ Security deposit (Kaution) – Usually 2 to 3 months’ rent
💡 Tip: If you don’t have a job yet, a guarantor may be required.
Types of Housing Options
🏢 Apartment (Wohnung) – For individual or family rental
🏠 Shared Housing (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) – A great way to reduce costs and meet people
🏨 Temporary Housing (Zwischenmiete or Wohnen auf Zeit) – A good option while looking for a permanent place
💡 Tip: Consider temporary housing like Airbnb or hostels for your first months in Germany.
Beware of Scams!
⚠ Never send money before visiting the property
⚠ Verify that the landlord has the right to rent out the apartment
⚠ Avoid offers that seem too good to be true (very low rents compared to the market)
💡 Tip: If an offer seems suspicious, seek advice from a local or a real estate agency.
Alternative Housing Solutions
If you don’t find housing immediately, you can:
✔ Stay in a hostel or Airbnb
✔ Ask your employer for help (some companies provide housing for employees)
✔ Reach out to expat support organizations
Conclusion
Finding housing in Germany requires planning and patience, but with good preparation, you can secure a place that fits your needs. As a Chancenkarte holder, you already have a great advantage when convincing landlords. Good luck with your search! 🏡✨
