Housing Basics

Finding housing is often one of the hardest parts of moving to Germany. Documents, timing, and clear communication matter a lot.

Common Housing Terms

• WG: shared apartment
• Kaltmiete: rent without utilities
• Warmmiete: rent including some utilities
• Kaution: deposit
• Wohnungsgeberbestätigung: landlord confirmation used for Anmeldung

Documents You May Need

• Passport or ID
• Employment contract or university admission
• Salary slips, if available
• SCHUFA report, if available
• Mieterselbstauskunft or tenant information form

Before Signing

Check the rent, deposit, notice period, included utilities, internet availability, and whether Anmeldung is possible at the address.

Common Mistakes

• Paying deposits before verifying the landlord or contract
• Ignoring whether Anmeldung is possible
• Confusing warm rent and cold rent
• Not checking move-in and notice dates carefully

Safety Tip

Be careful with listings that pressure you to pay quickly, avoid calls, or refuse proper documentation. If something feels wrong, pause and verify.