Apartment Hunting — How to Find Housing

Where to Search?

Online Portals (most popular):

• ImmoScout24 — the largest
• Immowelt
• eBay Kleinanzeigen
• WG-Gesucht — rooms and shared apartments

Other Methods:

• Facebook groups (e.g., "Wohnung Hamburg")
• Ads in local newspapers
• Notices in supermarkets
• Building superintendents (Hausmeister)

What Documents to Prepare?

1. Selbstauskunft — personal information form
2. Schufa-Auskunft — credit report (order at meineschufa.de)
3. Gehaltsnachweise — last 3 payslips
4. Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung — certificate from previous landlord
5. ID/Passport copies
6. Arbeitsvertrag — employment contract copy

How to Increase Your Chances?

• Speed — respond within hours
• Complete documents — bring everything to the apartment viewing
• Good impression — be punctual and well-groomed
• Short motivation letter — write who you are and what you do

What to Watch Out For?

⚠️ SCAMS:
- Never pay before seeing the apartment
- Don't send money abroad
- Don't share bank details via email
- If the price is too low — it's suspicious

How Much Does an Apartment Cost?

Rule: Rent should not exceed 30% of net income

Editorial hamboorg.city · As of: April 2026 · Carefully prepared, regularly updated. Content is informational and does not replace legal advice.