Germany is appealing for both students, tourists, and expatriates because such an active city option offers a great deal of history and quality education. Be it studying, working, or simply taking a holiday in Germany, the first order of business is finding suitable accommodation. The following detailed guide will walk you through different accommodation options in Germany, from student housing and temporary rentals to long-term apartments. Also, with knowledge of the types of housing, popular platforms, estimated costs, and tips on how to obtain housing, you will be much better off when trying to enter the market.
Types of Accommodation in Germany
a. Student Housing (Studentenwohnheim)
Probably the cheapest variant for a student will be student housing provided either by universities or private organizations. Such dorms, also known as Studentenwohnheim, are often located near campus and may offer shared or single rooms at relatively modest prices. As a rule, the demand is high, so applying early is recommended.
b. WG (Wohngemeinschaft)
WG is the abbreviation of the German word ‘Wohngemeinschaft’, meaning in English shared apartments or shared flats. Almost all students and young professionals want to stay in a WG because in this type of accommodation, though you rent a single room in a shared flat, the kitchen and bathroom can be used commonly with your roommates. This option is not only budget-friendly but also provides a wide scope to get along with new people.
c. Temporary Accommodation
If you are new to Germany and looking for temporary accommodation, then hostels, hotels, or short-term rentals like Airbnb would be ideal. This is efficient for people who would like to tour around different neighborhoods before settling on a long-term rental.
d. Long-term Rentals
For professionals that are likely to spend more time or for families, long-term rentals are the better deal. Mietwohnungen are apartments that one can also rent, either unfurnished or semi-furnished. You find them in various sizes, in the city center as well as outside of the suburbs.
e. Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments are fully furnished, including cleaning and utilities, sometimes even including breakfast. They cater for business travelers or those after a very hassle-free experience. This often comes at a higher cost, though.
f. Student Halls of Residence
Student halls are similar to Studentenwohnheim but usually operated by private organizations. They offer additional facilities such as a gym, study room, or social areas. More expensive, it is worth looking into for the added facilities.
Popular Platforms to Find Accommodation
Accommodations in Germany are hardly available, especially in metropolitan cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. Here are some popular platforms from which to begin your search:
a. WG-Gesucht
One of the best websites to find shared apartments and rooms within WGs. It’s user-friendly, with a huge number of students and young professionals using it.
b. Immobilienscout24
Immobilien Scout24, one of the biggest property portals in Germany, provides you with either long-term rentals or buying homes. Since it has detailed filters, this allows the user to narrow down his search based on location, price, and other preferences.
c. eBay Kleinanzeigen
This is rather a classifieds site, but you can use it for short-time rentals, furnished apartments, and sublets, as well as temporary housing.
d. HousingAnywhere
Students love this website, together with expats, because it has most of the housing accommodations available within its platform for many German cities.
e. UniPlaces
Housing for students, especially those at university, enjoys a good number of verified properties right on this portal, meeting the needs of international students in general.
f. Airbnb
Suitable for temporary stays, it offers a range of properties from shared single rooms to apartments. It is also not a bad option for the case when you need a temporarily staying place before finding something permanent.
Costs of Accommodation in Germany
The costs of accommodation in Germany are different depending on the city and the type of accommodation. For example, Munich and Frankfurt are pretty expensive to rent, while Leipzig and Dresden are more affordable. A rough estimate of the average rent prices per month is as follows:
a. Student Accommodation: € 200- € 400
b. WG Rooms: € 300 – € 600
c. Long-term Rentals: € 700 – € 1,500 (depending on the city and size of the apartment)
d. Serviced Apartments: € 1,000 – € 2,500
e. Temporary Accommodation: 50-150 per night in hotels or hostels
Please note that prices can be different concerning demand, area, and season.
Tips to Find the Accommodation
a. Early Starter
If you start at least 2-3 months in advance, it will surely be an added advantage for the early birds, mainly in cities in high demand.
b. Prepare Necessary Documents
Most landlords request proof of income, a SCHUFA credit report, and in some cases, require a guarantor. Keep these ready to speed up the process.
c. Use Multiple Platforms
Do not restrict yourself to one site; try out other websites and networks as well to enhance your chances.
d. Beware of Scams
If possible, go and see it for yourself or have a friend in whom you trust do this if you are still not in the country. Never pay money in advance without having signed a contract first.
e. Communities of Expats and Students
These websites may become a good source of housing leads, and some very useful advice from others that have gone before you.
Legal Aspects of Renting in Germany
a. Rental Contracts
Read your rental contract carefully, ensuring that all the terms are stated clearly, such as the level of rent, deposit, and notice period. They are usually in German, so if your German is not yet ready for viewing, do seek help.
b. Deposit (Kaution)
Normally, landlords request a deposit in advance—for example, 2 to 3 months of rent in advance. It will be returned at the time of moving, assuming everything seems okay within the house or apartment.
c. Notice Period
Standard varies between 3 months for the tenant and landlord, but this may be shorter for temporary rentals, subject to negotiation.
d. Utilities and Extra Overheads
Ensure what is inclusive in your rent. Sometimes it could just be extras such as water, heating, and electricity; you will therefore not experience any shocks.
Conclusion
Accommodation in Germany is far from easy to find, but once you learn how to go about it, finding a decent place to stay can be pretty easy. The trick—be it a student, a professional, or a tourist—is to begin the search early on with multiple tools and to be alert all the time. Taking into consideration the types of accommodation, budget estimation, and preparation of documents, you will be all set in finding your place. You shall have a home in Germany with patience and persistence.
