What Are The Best Websites to Find Apartments in Germany?

Finding a suitable rental property in Germany can be a daunting task, especially for expats who are not familiar with the local housing market. According to a 2020 report by the German Institute for Economic Research, the average rent for a furnished apartment in Germany increased by 5.9% from 2018 to 2019, and the demand for rental properties exceeded the supply in most German cities.

As someone who has lived in Germany for over three years, I know how challenging it can be to find a fully furnished apartment that meets your needs and budget. You have to deal with different types of rental contracts, apartment listings, and landlords, and sometimes, you have to compete with hundreds of other applicants for a single apartment.

That’s why I decided to write this blog post to share with you some of the best websites to find apartments in Germany:

These websites will help you search for and compare different options, filter by location, price, size, and amenities, and contact the landlords directly. In this blog post, I will also give you what you need to know to increase your chances of getting your dream apartment in Germany.

First time renting in Germany? Check our article Rent Apartment in Germany as a Foreigner: All You Need To Know

5 Best Websites To Rent Apartments in German Cities

Apartment hunting in Germany can be daunting due to the high demand for housing, especially in major cities. Searching for the perfect accommodation, whether a single room apartment, a fully furnished flat, or even house, often involves navigating through numerous apartment listings. This process can be time-consuming and sometimes frustrating due to the language barrier, strict rental contract terms, and dealing with landlords.

However, websites that list rental properties have made this process significantly easier. They offer a wide range of options, from an unfurnished to furnished apartment, allowing potential tenants to filter and choose based on their preferences. These platforms provide detailed information about the rental contract, landlords, and the housing itself, making the search for accommodation in German cities more manageable and efficient.

TheHomeLike.com is a website that helps you find and book a long term apartment in Germany. Whether you are looking for a single room apartment rentals or a spacious flat, you can browse through thousands of verified listings on TheHomeLike.com.

You can also filter your search by location, price, amenities, and size. The average price for an apartment in Germany is around €800 per month, but it can vary depending on the city and the demand. TheHomeLike.com is ideal for expats, students, professionals, and anyone who needs a comfortable and convenient place to stay for a few months or longer.

Highlights

• Easy booking process: You can book your apartment online with just a few clicks. You only need to provide your personal details and upload all your documents, such as your ID, visa, and credit report. You can also pay your rent and deposit securely through the website.

• Flexible cancellation policy: You can cancel your booking for free within 24 hours after confirmation. If you need to cancel later, you can do so up to 30 days before your move-in date and get a full deposit refund.

• Quality assurance: All the apartments on TheHomeLike.com are verified by the team and meet high standards of quality and safety. You can also check the ratings and reviews from previous tenants to get an honest feedback about the apartment and the landlord.

• Customer support: You can contact the customer service team anytime via phone, email, or chat. They will assist you with any questions or issues you may have before, during, or after your stay. They can also help you with the contract, the utilities, and the house rules.

• Wide selection: You can choose from over 50,000 apartments across 400 cities in Germany. You can find apartments of different sizes, styles, and prices. The average size of apartment rentals in Germany is 60 square meters, but you can find smaller or bigger ones depending on your needs and preferences.

Pros:

1. Great Customer Service: Many customers have praised the excellent customer service they received. The team is described as efficient, helpful, and quick to respond.

2. User-Friendly Website: The website is described as user-friendly, making it easy to browse through options, check amenities, and book stays.

3. Transparent Booking: The booking process is transparent, with detailed descriptions and photos of each property.

4. Secure Payment: The payment process is secure.

5. Variety of Options: The website offers a wide range of fully-furnished apartments.

Cons:

While the reviews are generally positive, some users mentioned the following potential drawbacks:

1. Pricing: Some users felt that the pricing could be more competitive.

2. Availability: Depending on the location and time, the availability of apartments may vary.

Please note that these are subjective opinions from users, and your experience may vary. It’s always a good idea to do your own research before making a decision.

User Reviews for The HomeLike

• I had my first experience with Homelike recently and it was quite impressive. The website was easy to navigate and I was able to find an apartment abroad without any hassle. The customer service was top-notch, especially Melanie Witte, who was very professional and quick in responding to my queries. She made me feel heard and valued as a customer.

• I was looking for a temporary flat in Berlin and stumbled upon Homelike. The website was user-friendly and made my search straightforward. I was particularly impressed with the quick responses from their agent, Nick Neumann. He was incredibly helpful and kind, and his understanding of the market was commendable.

• Using Homelike for the first time was a bit challenging for me. I had to sign two different contracts and provide personal details, which made me feel a bit insecure. However, the customer service was helpful and they addressed my concerns promptly. I believe the website could be more transparent about the process to make it easier for first-time users.

My Opinion

I’m happy to share my experience with Thehomelike.com as an expat who moved to Germany for a short time. The website offers a wide range of single room apartments that are fully furnished and equipped with all the necessary amenities. The monthly rent is reasonable and varies depending on the location and size of the apartment. The process of renting an apartment was smooth and hassle-free.

However, I had to open a German bank account to pay the rent and security deposit. The customer service was excellent, and the real estate agents were very helpful and responsive. Overall, I had a great experience with thehomelike.com and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a short-term rental in Germany.

Not sure where to buy or rent an apartment in Germany? This article can help: Best Places To Buy House or Apartment in Germany

2. Uniplaces.com

Uniplaces.com is an online marketplace that was created in 2013 with the objective of making it easy and cool to rent a new place to live. It offers a wide selection of properties for rent, including rooms, flats, apartments, and other accommodations. The platform is designed for students, young workers, digital nomads, travelers, or families.

The website provides a hassle-free house hunt experience, allowing users to book accommodations online from anywhere in the world.

The prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and location, catering to all budgets. Most landlords on the platform offer a wide range of living spaces, from shared flats to private studios and apartments.

Highlights

• Ease of Use: Users can create a free account and start their house hunt immediately. The platform is user-friendly and allows for easy navigation.

• Wide Selection: Uniplaces.com offers a wide selection of properties in popular cities around the globe. Users can filter their search by price, type of property, house features, and rules.

• Tenant Protection: After paying your first month’s rent to Uniplaces, they wait until 24 hours after you move-in to transfer it to the landlord. This allows you to confirm that everything is ok with your new home.

• Verified Places: All places listed on the platform go through a verification process to ensure the accuracy of the information provided.

• Service Fee: The service fee covers a wide range of services, including no need for a guarantor, a multilingual support team, a 24 hours policy move-in, a place accuracy check, and an official prepaid accommodation certificate.

Pros

1. User-Friendly Application: The application is well-made and offers a good user experience.

2. Secure Booking Process: You only need to pay the Uniplaces fee after the landlord accepts your booking.

3. Customer Service: Some users have reported excellent customer service experiences.

Cons:

1. High Fees: Some users have mentioned that the Uniplaces fee is quite high, even compared to other platforms.

2. Lack of Landlord Information: Users would like to know more about the landlord before paying.

3. Communication Issues: Some users have reported issues with communication, particularly after booking.

User Reviews for Uniplaces

• I recently used Uniplaces for the first time and found it to be a quick and easy process. I was able to find and confirm my housing in just 12 hours! Uniplaces allowed me to see options that weren’t available to me otherwise and were still within my price range. I’m much less stressed about my international move now that I’ve secured a beautiful, safe apartment.

• My experience with Uniplaces was disappointing. I had booked an apartment for almost a year, and the landlord initially accepted my offer. However, when I tried to sign a contract, the landlord refused and asked me to cancel the reservation. Unfortunately, I lost a significant amount due to the cancellation. I am now seeking a refund, but I have not received any response from the support team despite my attempts to contact them.

• I had a great experience with Uniplaces’ customer care. I accidentally booked the wrong place and paid for the service. But the website granted me a 100% discount for my next booking. The consumer experience team did an excellent job.

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My Opinion

As an expat who has used Uniplaces.com, I highly recommend it to others in a similar situation. The platform will make your long-term apartment hunting in Germany incredibly easy. I was able to browse through a variety of options without needing a local or German bank account. The process was straightforward and efficient.

However, be prepared for some minor communication challenges with landlords. Despite this, Uniplaces.com remains my top choice for hassle-free house hunting in Germany.

Are you planning to buy a house in Germany? You need to check this article about How Much Are the House Prices in Germany? [2023]

Booking.com is a globally recognized platform that offers various accommodations, including apartments for rent in various German cities. The website is available in 43 languages, making it accessible to a diverse group of users.

On Booking.com, you can find more than 6.2 million homes, apartments, and other unique places to stay. The prices vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the apartment. This platform is ideal for anyone looking for short-term or long-term stays, from tourists to business travelers, and even students or expats relocating to Germany.

Highlights

• Apartment in Germany: Booking.com offers various apartments in various German cities. Whether you’re looking for a cozy one-bedroom in Berlin or a spacious loft in Munich, you’ll find numerous options to choose from.

• Credit History: Unlike some rental platforms, Booking.com does not appear to require a credit history check for booking apartments. This makes it a convenient option for international travelers or those without an established credit history in Germany.

• Bank Statement: While Booking.com does not explicitly require a bank statement for booking apartments, having financial proof of your ability to cover the rental costs is always a good idea. This could be particularly useful if you’re booking a long-term stay.

• Notice Period: Booking.com provides flexibility with its cancellation policies. Many properties allow free cancellation until one or two days before check-in, providing peace of mind for travelers whose plans may change.

• Other Applicants: Booking.com does not seem to have a feature for comparing multiple applicants for the same property. Each booking is handled individually, ensuring a straightforward and efficient booking process for each user.

Pros

• Wide Selection: Booking.com offers a vast selection of apartments in various German cities, catering to different needs and budgets.

• User-Friendly Interface: The website is easy to navigate, with filters that allow users to narrow down their search based on location, price, size, and amenities.

• Flexible Cancellation Policies: Many properties on Booking.com allow free cancellation until one or two days before check-in, providing peace of mind for travelers whose plans may change.

Cons

• No Comparison Feature: Booking.com does not have a feature for comparing multiple applicants for the same property. Each booking is handled individually, which may not be ideal for landlords looking to compare potential tenants.

• Potential Hidden Costs: Some users have reported hidden costs from real estate agents, such as cleaning fees or service charges, that were not made clear at the time of booking.

• Customer Service: Some users have reported issues with customer service, such as difficulty in getting refunds or resolving issues with bookings.

User Reviews for Uniplaces

• I recently used Uniplaces for the first time and found it to be a quick and easy process. I was able to find and confirm my housing in just 12 hours! Uniplaces allowed me to see options that weren’t available to me otherwise and were still within my price range. I’m much less stressed about my international move now that I’ve secured a beautiful, safe apartment.

• My experience with Uniplaces was disappointing. I had booked an apartment for almost a year, and the landlord initially accepted my offer. However, when I tried to sign a contract, the landlord refused and asked me to cancel the reservation. Unfortunately, I lost a significant amount due to the cancellation. I am now seeking a refund, but I have not received any response from the support team despite my attempts to contact them.

• I had a great experience with Uniplaces’ customer care. I accidentally booked the wrong place and paid for the service. But the website granted me a 100% discount for my next booking. The consumer experience team did an excellent job.

Book Here!

My Opinion

As an expat, I’ve found that using Booking.com can be quite beneficial. The platform is user-friendly and offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various needs and budgets. The detailed descriptions and reviews of properties can help you make an informed decision. The site also provides a secure booking process, which is a major plus.

However, like any online platform, it’s important to do your own research as well. Look at multiple reviews and sources before making a decision. Always read the fine print for details about cancellations and refunds.

Are you wondering why there’s no kitchen in your apartment? This article will give you an answer: Houses in Germany – No Kitchen? What You Need to Know

ImmobilienScout24.de is the go-to platform for finding apartments for rent in Germany, with over 12 million monthly users. The website features more than 500,000 rental offers from owners, real estate agencies, and brokers.

While a regular account is free, certain features are exclusive to the premium account. The price of the premium account varies based on the chosen subscription period. According to a Reddit user, the premium membership costs €20 per month with a minimum of 6 months.

In cities like Berlin, where the housing situation is highly competitive, the premium account may be worthwhile for individuals seeking alternative options to shared apartments for a few months.

Highlights

• Extensive Apartment Listings: Access over 500,000 offers directly from owners and agencies, providing a wide range of rental options.

• Premium Account Benefits: Gain access to exclusive features and enhanced functionality by upgrading to a premium account.

• Tailored Pricing: Choose from different subscription periods and pay according to your selected duration, starting at 30 EUR per month.

• Addressing Rental Competition: The premium account can be particularly valuable in major cities like Berlin, where the demand for rental surpasses supply.

• Simplified Searching: ImmobilienScout24.de streamlines the process of finding apartments, making navigating the competitive rental market in Germany easier.

Pros

1. User-Friendly Application: The application is well-made and offers a good user experience.

2. Quick Connection to Home-Owners/Lessors: Users have reported that the website provides a quick connection to home-owners or lessors.

3. High Ratings on App Stores: The app has received high ratings on iTunes and Google Play.

Cons:

1. Slow App: Some users have reported that the app is slow.

2. Poor Customer Service: There have been complaints about poor customer service.

3. Subscription Cancellation Issues: Users have reported difficulties in cancelling their subscriptions.

User Reviews for ImmobilienScout24.de

• I recently used ImmobilienScout24.de for the first time and found it to be quite helpful. The website was easy to navigate, and I was able to find a suitable apartment in Berlin after several months of intensive searching. The timely notification feature was particularly useful, especially the ability to filter out areas by name, distance, and custom map drawing.

• My experience with ImmobilienScout24.de was not as pleasant as I had hoped. I subscribed for a three-month trial and was unable to send a message to the contact person. To my surprise, I was forced to pay for a one-year subscription. I don’t understand why I would need to use the app for an entire year.

• I think the only benefit of using ImmobilienScout24.de is to have access to some houses. However, the website doesn’t facilitate anything else. I was in the middle of paying when I realized this. I believe the website could be more user-friendly and provide more assistance to its users.

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My Opinion

As an expat in Germany, I think it’s safe to suggest ImmobilienScout24.de. The platform’s extensive listings provide a comprehensive view of available apartments, helping me find a suitable home in a new country.

The search filters are robust, allowing me to tailor my preferences from location to amenities. The real-time updates and alerts informed me about new listings matching my criteria. While the website’s interface may seem a bit overwhelming initially, the depth of information and reliable listings make it an excellent resource.

You don’t have to break the bank when you buy a house in Germany. Check our article: Cheapest Places To Buy Property in Germany

Immowelt.de is a leading online property portal based in Germany. The website is designed for a wide range of users, including property owners, real estate professionals, and individuals looking for properties to rent or buy. It supports users with data-driven services for an uncomplicated search for a rental apartment in Germany, effective marketing of a property, and tailor-made financing of their own four walls.

As for the expected prices, they can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and type of the property. However, Immowelt.de provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to filter properties based on their budget, making it easier to find properties within a specific price range.

Highlights

• Wide Range of Properties: Immowelt.de offers a vast selection of properties for rent or purchase, catering to various needs and budgets.

• User-Friendly Interface: The website provides an easy-to-use platform that helps users save time and effort in their property search.

• Data-Driven Services: Immowelt.de supports users with data-driven services for an uncomplicated search for a rental apartment, effective marketing of a property, and tailor-made financing of their own four walls.

• Part of a Global Network: Being part of the AVIV Group, Immowelt.de benefits from the expertise and resources of one of the world’s largest digital real estate tech companies.

• Established and Trusted: With its founding in 1991, Immowelt.de has decades of experience and broad real estate know-how, making it a trusted platform for property transactions.

Pros

1. Extensive Listings: Immowelt.de offers a vast array of property listings, providing users with a diverse range of options when searching for apartments or houses.

2. User-Friendly Interface: The platform’s intuitive design makes navigation and property search relatively straightforward, enhancing the overall user experience.

3. Helpful Features: Immowelt.de includes useful features such as detailed property descriptions, high-quality images, and filters that enable users to narrow down their search based on specific criteria, streamlining the decision-making process.

Cons of Immowelt.de:

1. Advertised Prices: Some users have reported discrepancies between the advertised rental prices on Immowelt.de and the actual costs negotiated with landlords or real estate agents, leading to potential misunderstandings.

2. Limited International Listings: While suitable for the German market, Immowelt.de may have fewer international property listings than other platforms, potentially limiting options for expatriates or those looking for non-German properties.

3. Mobile App Issues: Users have occasionally experienced glitches and performance issues with the mobile app, impacting the convenience of property searching on the go.

User Reviews for Immowelt.de

• I recently used Immowelt.de and found it to be quite helpful. The website was easy to navigate, and I was able to find a suitable apartment in Berlin after several months of intensive searching. The timely notification feature was particularly useful, especially the ability to filter out areas by name, distance, and custom map drawing.

• My experience with Immowelt.de was not as pleasant as I had hoped. I subscribed for a three-month trial and was unable to send a message to the contact person. To my surprise, I was forced to pay for a one-year subscription. I don’t understand why I would need to use the app for an entire year.

• I think the only benefit of using Immowelt.de is to have access to some houses. However, the website doesn’t facilitate anything else. I was in the middle of paying when I realized this. I believe the website could be more user-friendly and provide more assistance to its users.

Book Here!

My Opinion

As an expat, I found Immowelt.de a reliable resource for finding an apartment in Germany. The platform’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive property listings made the search process straightforward.

But it’s important to note that the site does not provide information about current or previous debts associated with the properties. Despite this, I would still recommend Immowelt.de to fellow expats for its ease of use and extensive database.

You can buy and rent furnished apartments in Germany. But can you move to this country without a job? Here’s what you need to know: How to Move to Germany Without a Job? 2023 Guide

What You Need to Know Before Renting an Apartment in Germany

Rental contracts in Germany can be quite complex and confusing for foreigners, especially if they do not speak German. Here are some details about understanding German rental contracts, common clauses, and legal tips for foreigners.

What is a Rental Contract?

A rental contract (Mietvertrag) is a legally binding agreement between the landlord (Vermieter) and the tenant (Mieter) that specifies the terms and conditions of renting a property in Germany. A rental contract should include information such as the rent amount, the deposit, the duration of the lease, the notice period, the maintenance responsibilities, the utilities, the house rules, and the rights and obligations of both parties. A rental contract can be either written or oral, but it is highly recommended to have a written contract to avoid any disputes or misunderstandings.

A rental contract can be either fixed-term (befristet) or open-ended (unbefristet). A fixed-term contract has a specified end date, while an open-ended contract can be terminated by either party with a notice period, usually three months.

Understand Cold Rent and Warm Rent

When you’re planning to move to Germany and start your search for a living space, you’ll come across two terms: “Kaltmiete” (Cold Rent) and “Warmmiete” (Warm Rent).

• Cold Rent (Kaltmiete): This is the base rent for the property itself, without any additional costs. It’s what the landlord receives in exchange for renting the place. Germans often use this figure to compare prices when looking at different areas or apartments. According to weclome-hub-germany.com, the average cold rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in a city center is around €800 per month, while in smaller cities or rural areas, it can be lower.

• Warm Rent (Warmmiete): This is the months rent that includes the Cold Rent plus other additional costs, known as “Nebenkosten.” These costs often include city/communal services such as garbage disposal & water supply and any expense related to the maintenance of the common parts in the building (stairs, entrance, backyard, etc.). If there is central heating, fuel supply would also be listed. Depending on what you have signed up for, it can also include internet or/and TV. Expect to pay €900 – €1500 for warm rent, especially if it includes the electricity. You can pay this straight from your bank account.

How much should you pay for rent in Germany? Read the detailed article about rental house prices here.

Common clauses in German rental contracts

There are some clauses that are commonly found in German rental contracts that foreigners should be aware of. Some of these clauses are the following:

• Schönheitsreparaturen:

  • Translated as “cosmetic repairs” in English, Schönheitsreparaturen refers to the tenant’s responsibility for maintaining the aesthetic condition of the rented property. This typically includes tasks such as painting walls, varnishing woodwork, and other minor repairs. However, it’s essential to note that the specifics can vary, and the tenant’s responsibility for these repairs may depend on the terms outlined in the rental agreement.

• Kündigungsfrist:

  • Kündigungsfrist translates to “notice period” in English. This clause specifies the amount of time required for either the tenant or the landlord to terminate the rental agreement. The duration of the notice period can vary and is typically stated in months. It provides both parties with a legally defined timeframe to plan for the end of the tenancy.

• Nebenkosten:

  • Nebenkosten refers to “ancillary costs” or “utilities.” In a rental agreement, this clause outlines the additional costs associated with the property, such as heating, water, garbage disposal, and maintenance of common areas. The tenant is usually responsible for paying these costs in addition to the basic rent. The exact breakdown of Nebenkosten should be detailed in the rental contract.

• Kaution:

  • Kaution translates to “security deposit” in English. It is a common practice in Germany for landlords to request a security deposit from tenants before moving in. The purpose of the deposit is to cover any potential damages to the property or unpaid rent during the tenancy. By law, the security deposit is typically limited to three times the monthly rent. The landlord is required to return the deposit, minus any legitimate deductions, at the end of the tenancy.

Understanding these clauses is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities throughout the rental period. It’s recommended to carefully review and, if needed, seek legal advice before signing any rental agreement in Germany.

Documents Needed to Rent an Apartment in Germany

To rent an apartment in Germany as a foreigner, you will need the following documents:

• An ID or passport: This is to prove your identity and nationality. You may also need a visa or residence permit if you are from a non-EU country.

• A credit report (Schufa): This is to show your credit history and financial reliability. You can obtain a Schufa report online or from a local branch of the Schufa company. Some landlords may accept a foreign credit report if you have recently moved to Germany.

• Three most recent wage slips (Gehaltsnachweise): This is to prove your income and ability to pay the rent. If you are self-employed, you may need to provide a tax return or a bank statement instead.

• An application form (Mieterselbstauskunft): This questionnaire asks for your personal and professional details, such as your name, date of birth, marital status, occupation, previous address, etc. You can find a sample form online.

• Documentation stating that you do not owe money to any previous landlords (Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung): This letter from your previous landlord confirms that you have paid your rent on time and have no outstanding debts. You can ask your previous landlord to provide this document or use a template online.

Expats Opinion Regarding Renting in Germany

Here are opinions or reviews from expats regarding renting and buying apartments in Germany:

• I have been living in Germany for three years and prefer renting over buying. Renting is cheaper and more flexible, especially in big cities like Berlin or Munich. I don’t have to worry about property taxes, maintenance costs, or mortgage payments. I also like the fact that rents are stable and regulated by the government, so I don’t have to deal with sudden increases or unfair practices. Renting gives me the freedom to move around and explore different areas of the country.

• I decided to buy an apartment in Germany after renting for a long time. I wanted more security and stability in my housing situation and saw it as a good investment opportunity, given the rising property prices. I was lucky to find a new-build apartment in a medium-sized city near a metropolis, where buying still makes financial sense. I enjoy having my own space and customizing it to my liking. Buying an apartment in Germany was not easy, but it was worth it.

• I am an expat who has been renting an apartment in Germany for a year. I am not sure if I want to buy a property here or not. On one hand, I like the idea of owning my own home and building equity. On the other hand, I find the process of buying a property in Germany very complicated and expensive. There are a lot of fees, taxes, and regulations involved. I also don’t know how long I will stay in Germany, so I don’t want to commit to a long-term mortgage. I think renting is more convenient and flexible for me right now.

Final Thoughts About The Best Websites to Find Apartments in Germany

You don’t have to settle for a mediocre apartment in Germany. With these five websites, you can find and book your ideal home in Germany in no time. Whether you need a short-term or long-term stay, a furnished or unfurnished flat, or a shared or private accommodation, these platforms have it all. They also offer helpful tips and advice on how to navigate the German rental market, understand the rental contract, and register your address.

Don’t miss this opportunity to find your dream home in Germany. Click the links in the article and start exploring the best websites to find apartments in Germany today. You will be amazed by the variety and quality of the options available. And by doing so, you will also support our blog and help us create more valuable content for you.

You can also contact us for more information. Don’t miss this chance to find your dream home in Germany. Start your search today and get ready to move in!