Housing Market
Understanding the housing market: challenges and opportunities in Germany
Finding accommodation in Germany is one of the biggest challenges for newcomers, especially in cities like Berlin or Munich where demand is high and supply is limited. Since most people in Germany rent, starting with a temporary furnished apartment is often the best option. It helps with city registration, avoids common scams, and gives expats time to explore neighborhoods before settling into a long-term home.
German market
Germany has one of the lowest homeownership rates globally.
Many Germans rent their homes for decades.
Germany has strong tenant protection laws, including rent contro.
Key challenges
Landlords often demand proof of income, credit reports and more.
Fierce competition for apartments, especially in major cities.
Vulnerable to fraudulent housing offers, especially when searching online.
No matter your background or situation, getalong helps you find the right accommodation in Germany, from temporary stays to long-term rentals.
You can also join our waiting list for access to our own furnished apartments offered exclusively to newcomers.
What you need to rent any accommodation in Germany
Renting an apartment or house in Germany as a foreign citizen can be challenging, especially in competitive cities. Here’s what you’ll typically need
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND PROOF
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To secure a rental, landlords often request several documents that demonstrate your eligibility and reliability as a tenant:
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Valid residence permit
Make sure your visa or residence permit clearly allows you to live in Germany long-term (e.g. work visa, student visa). -
Proof of income
Show that you can afford the rent through:-
Employment contract
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Recent payslips
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Bank statements
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Credit report (Schufa Auskunft)
This German credit report proves your financial reliability and is often mandatory. -
Proof of health insurance
Having valid health insurance is a basic requirement for many official processes, including renting. -
Rental history
You can improve your chances with:-
Letters of recommendation from previous landlords
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Proof of past rental payments
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Guarantor (Bürgschaft)
Especially if you lack a rental history in Germany, a German resident who guarantees your rent payments can be very helpful.
COMMON CHALLENGES TO BE AWARE OF
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Competitive market
Major cities have very limited rental availability, and apartments are often taken quickly. -
Language barrier
Landlords and agents may only speak German, which can make communication tricky. -
Cultural differences
Rental customs (like bringing your own kitchen) might be unfamiliar at first. -
Finding the right fit
Requirements like pet-friendliness or location preferences can narrow your options.
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TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SEARCH
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Start early
Begin your search as soon as possible to increase your chances. -
Learn some German
Even a few key phrases can make a big difference when talking to landlords or viewing apartments. -
Use our relocation service
Getalong can assist you with the entire process—from finding listings to translating documents and contacting landlords. -
Tap into our network
Ask other expats, colleagues, or friends for tips and recommendations. Community connections often open doors.
How we help you
How getalong helps you find a home in Germany
01
Immediate housing & registration support
We help you secure short-term accommodation for your first weeks in Germany: safe, convenient, and ready upon arrival. At the same time, we guide you through your city registration (Anmeldung) process, so you can settle in quickly and legally.
02
Language & paperwork assistance
From communicating with landlords to reviewing rental contracts, our team assists with translations and document preparation. We ensure you understand every step and help you avoid common mistakes in the rental process.
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Long-Term solutions & in-house rentals
Whether you're searching for a quiet apartment, a family home, or a shared flat, we support your long-term housing search and match you with options that fit your needs. In some cases, we also offer our own fully furnished apartments for direct rent to newcomers.
Solutions
Your guide to finding accommodation in Germany
At getalong, we understand that finding the right place to live is crucial for your comfort and stability in a new country. Our personalized support simplifies the housing search process, ensuring you find a home that fits your needs.
01
Book an appointment
Choose a convenient time in our calendar to speak with a team member.
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Get free guidance
Tell us about your current situation, and we’ll offer tailored advice at no cost to you.
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Find clear solutions
Receive helpful options, step-by-step recommendations, and access to useful services that match your needs.
Get in touch with us
Rental application folder (Bewerbungsmappe)
We help you create a professional rental application folder (Bewerbungsmappe), the essential application folder required to rent an apartment in Germany. It includes all key documents like proof of income, credit bureau (SCHUFA), ID copies, and a personal introduction to increase your chances with landlords.
Verification of housing advertisements
We help you review and verify housing ads before you apply or pay anything. That way you can avoid scams and unrealistic offers. Our team checks listings for credibility, correct pricing, and legal requirements to protect you during your search.
We help you to find and accomodation
Whether you're looking for temporary or long-term housing, we support you in finding suitable apartments that match your needs. We also help with contacting landlords, reviewing contracts, and navigating the rental process.