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ΕλληνικάFinding Housing Online — Best Portals and Tips
Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.
Most Important Housing Portals
| Portal | Type | Costs | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| ImmobilienScout24 | Rental & Purchase | Free (Premium optional) | Largest portal, most listings |
| Immowelt | Rental & Purchase | Free | Good for smaller cities |
| WG-Gesucht | WG Rooms | Free | Best platform for shared apartment search |
| eBay Kleinanzeigen | Private | Free | Often commission-free, but beware of fraud |
| Vonovia / LEG | Housing Companies | Free | Directly with major landlords |
Preparing Your Application Documents
Landlords in Germany expect a complete application package. Prepare the following documents:
- Self-Disclosure Form — personal data, income, current housing situation
- SCHUFA Credit Report — orderable online (€29.95)
- Income Verification — last 3 payslips
- Certificate of No Rental Arrears — from previous landlord
- ID Card / Passport — copy
- Brief Cover Letter — who you are, why you want this apartment
⚠️ Recognizing Fraud
- Never transfer money before viewing the apartment!
- Be suspicious of offers that seem "too good" (very cheap, prime location)
- No legitimate landlord demands a deposit before signing the lease
- No payment via Western Union, Bitcoin, or gift cards
Tips for Foreigners
- SCHUFA: As a newcomer you have no SCHUFA score — explain this in your cover letter
- Guarantor: Parents or relatives can act as guarantors
- Temporary Housing: Rent a furnished room temporarily (wunderflats.com, housinganywhere.com)
- Social Housing: Find cheaper apartments with Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)