Germany · Wohnungssuche

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Find a place to live in Germany

Housing is the hardest part of moving to Germany. Landlords expect a complete application folder at the viewing, the best flats are gone within hours, and you can't do your Anmeldung until you've signed somewhere. Having your documents ready as one PDF is what puts you ahead of dozens of other applicants.

Expect 3 cold months' rent up front (deposit + first rent). The search can take weeks to months.

Good to know — wherever you live

  • Listings move fast on ImmoScout24, Immowelt, WG-Gesucht and Kleinanzeigen — set alerts and reply within the hour with your full folder attached.
  • Never pay anything before viewing a flat in person or via a verified agent — upfront-payment requests are the classic rental scam targeting newcomers.
  • No SCHUFA yet? A short cover note plus an employer letter and a few payslips often reassures landlords; a Mietbürgschaft (guarantor) can help too.
  • Consider a temporary/serviced flat or a WG (shared flat) for the first month so you can register and search locally without pressure.

Now pick your city

The office, booking portal and local quirks differ from city to city — your city's guide has the exact steps, documents and booking link.

TiG Desk — free iPhone app

The letters that come with Find a place to live, read for you

Photograph an official letter and TiG Desk tells you who sent it, what you have to do and by when — then keeps the document on your phone and reminds you before the deadline. Free, and it works without an account.

Doing this one online instead? TiG Pilot explains each field of the authority's own form while you fill it.