If you are planning to emigrate to Germany, you are probably wondering how to find accommodation in this beautiful country.
Don't worry, we are here to help you. In this article, we will share with you a Complete Guide to Finding Accommodation in Germany with useful pages and recommendations important for your flat search to be successful and to avoid potential scams.
Table of contents
Useful websites for finding accommodation in Germany:
- WG-Gesucht: This site is very popular and allows you to search for rooms in shared flats (WG) or even entire flats.
- Wunderflats: If you are looking for a temporary option, such as a short-term furnished flat, this page is perfect.
- HabytHere you will find modern and furnished flats in different cities of Germany.
- Immobilienscout24One of the biggest real estate platforms for finding accommodation in Germany. Here we got the flat we are currently living in.
- eBay KleinanzeigenThis page is ideal if you are looking for cheaper accommodation, as many individuals post ads here.
- HousingAnywhereA global platform that allows you to search for long-term accommodation in various German cities.
- The HomelikeSpecialising in short and long term rentals, this site offers you options in the city of Berlin.
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Recommendations when looking for accommodation in Germany:
Never pay in advance without having seen the flat in person, unless you are dealing with a reputable real estate agency and can find reliable information to back up the transaction. Unfortunately, scams do exist, so it is better to be safe.
We recommend that you rent a Airbnb or stay in a hostel for the first month. This way you can spend time and peace of mind looking for a long-term flat without rushing and avoiding potential scams.
When renting, be aware of the terms "Kaltmiete" and "Warmmiete". The former refers to the basic price of the flat excluding additional services, while the latter refers to the final price including services.
Start your search well in advance, as this will allow you to find better options and avoid paying more than necessary. If you search at the last minute, you are likely to end up paying higher prices due to high demand.
Check the location: Before committing to a flat, be sure to research the location. Consider accessibility to public transport, proximity to basic amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies, and the safety of the neighbourhood.
Flexibility in search criteria: Keep an open mind when looking for a flat. Your initial criteria may need to be adjusted to suit. Consider options such as shared rooms or living on the outskirts of the city.
Effective communication: Learn some basic German phrases related to finding accommodation. This will help you communicate better with landlords or estate agents and show you how to be a committed tenant.
- Have the Schufa ready: The Schufa is a credit report in Germany which assesses your creditworthiness and which you will be asked for in most places to rent.
- Hire a Public liability insurance The civil liability insurance protects your assets by covering damages to third parties. It is compulsory in some cases, includes legal defence and avoids large debts. It is economical and essential for unforeseen events. This insurance is a great plus that will also be useful when renting. At THIS LINK can be contracted for less than €5 per month.
Common types of scams in Germany (and how to avoid them):
1. Fake Listings (Fake Listings):
- How it works:
- A flat appears at a very low price on portals like eBay Kleinanzeigen o Flatshare search.
- The "owner" tells you that he is abroad and cannot show the flat in person.
- It asks you for a advance deposit to send you the keys.
- Once you pay, it's gone.
- How to avoid it:
- Never pay without visiting the flat.
- Be wary of advertisements that are too cheap.
- Use secure platforms that offer identity verification (e.g. Immobilienscout24).
2. Phishing and identity theft:
- How it works:
- You receive an email from an alleged owner asking you for your personal and bank details.
- Sometimes they create fake websites of well-known portals such as "Immobilienscout24" to steal your information.
- How to avoid it:
- Never send copies of your passport or bank account to strangers.
- Always check the URL of the website before entering data.
3. "Fake Airbnb" or alleged management companies
How it works:
- The scammer claims the property is rented through "Airbnb" or a fake agency.
- It sends you a fake website where you must make an advance payment.
- Once you pay, they disappear.
- How to avoid it:
- Do not pay outside the official rental platforms.
- Airbnb never manages unreserved long-term rentals on its platform.
4. Overpayments and false reimbursements:
- How it works:
- A supposed tenant or landlord sends you a higher payment than agreed.
- He then asks you to reimburse him the difference.
- Days later, the initial payment turns out to be false and you lose the money sent.
- How to avoid it:
- Do not accept overpayments.
- Wait until the money is actually in your account before making any refunds.
5. Illegal subletting
- How it works:
- Someone rents a flat and then sublets it without the landlord's permission.
- You pay the deposit and rent, but then the real owner shows up and evicts you.
How to avoid it:
- Verify that the person you are dealing with is the legal owner of the property.
- Ask to see the original contract and an authorisation to sublet.
Final tips to avoid scams
- Always visit the department in person before paying.
- Do not send money through Western Union, PayPal "friends and family" or cryptocurrencies.
- Use only reliable platforms How Immobilienscout24, Flatshare Wanted o Airbnb.
- Sign an official contract before transferring any money.
How much does it cost to rent in Germany?
City | Flat (70 m², 1–2 bedrooms) | Room in shared flat | Services (electricity, internet, heating) | Deposit (3 months' rent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Munich | €1,500 – €2,300 | €700 – €1,000 | €250 – €350 | €4,500 – €6,900 |
Frankfurt | €1,200 – €1,800 | £650 – £900 | €230 – €320 | £3,600 – £5,400 |
Berlin | €1,100 – €1,800 | £700 – £950 | €220 – €300 | 3,300 – 5,400 |
Hamburg / Cologne | £1,100 – £1,600 | £650 – £900 | €220 – €300 | £3,300 – £4,800 |
Stuttgart / Düsseldorf | €1,000 – €1,500 | £600 – £850 | €210 – €290 | £3,000 – £4,500 |
Leipzig / Dresden | €700 – €1,100 | €450 – €650 | €180 – €260 | €2,100 – €3,300 |
To be taken into account:
In addition to rent, you need to consider the cost of utilities (heating, water, electricity, and internet), which usually range between €100 and €200 per month, depending on the size of the flat and consumption.
The deposit normally equates to one or two months' rent, although in many cases it can go up to three.
Prices can vary quite a lot depending on the area. In the centre or in popular neighbourhoods, things are usually more expensive, while on the outskirts prices go down. That's why it's worth comparing carefully before deciding.
Prices are current as of July 2026, but they can vary over time depending on availability and city.
Hostels offering Anmeldung
As an extra, we are providing you with information on hostels that are available. Registration (de toutes façons, nous vous recommandons de contacter l'auberge et de demander)
Berlin:
Hostel Inn Berlin
Meininger Hotel Berlin
Happy Go Lucky
Living Hotel
36Rooms
Leipzig:
Garten Eden Leipzig
Hamburg:
MAC City Hostel
In addition, in this link you can view hotels in Southern Germany that offer accommodation and work.
Remember, patience and perseverance are key when looking for accommodation in Germany. Don't get discouraged if you don't find something right away. Keep exploring and using different resources to increase your chances of finding the perfect place. Good luck in your search!
