How to find your first home
Booking Temporary Homes in Berlin: What You Need to Know
1. What is the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (WGB)?
The Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (WGB) is a crucial document in Germany that landlords issue to tenants. It confirms that the tenant resides in the rented apartment. This document is essential for registering with the local registration office and is usually handed over to the tenant by the landlord when the apartment is handed over.
2. The Importance of the Security Deposit
A security deposit serves as a safeguard for the landlord to cover any potential damages to the apartment or unpaid rent. It is vital to ensure that the security deposit regulations are handled transparently and fairly to protect both the tenant and the landlord.
3. The documentation of the apartment handover.
Proper documentation of the apartment handover is crucial to avoid future disputes. We recommend taking photos of all rooms and any existing defects. Creating a detailed photographic record helps document the condition of the apartment upon move-in.
4. Minimum Stay: 3 Months
Many rental agreements for temporary apartments stipulate a minimum stay of three months. This is beneficial to both tenants and landlords. Both sides have planning security. As a tenant, you have the certainty of having accommodation for a fixed period of time without having to constantly look for new options. A longer rental period allows you to really settle in, to feel the apartment as your first "home," and ultimately to pay a lower rental price. This is especially attractive for business travelers and expats.
5. Flexible Rental Periods
Rental contracts for temporary apartments are usually renewable up to a maximum of 12 months. Flexible rental contracts are great for people who are new to the city and need some time to get used to their new surroundings and find a long-term apartment, or for people who will only be in the city for a short period of time.
Important Factors to Consider when Renting a Temporary Home in Berlin.
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Name on Doorbell and Mailbox: Ensure that your name is clearly displayed on both the doorbell and the mailbox. This is essential for receiving important mail, such as official documents and utility bills.
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Broadcasting Fees: In Germany, all residents are obliged to pay the broadcasting fee. This fee is used to finance public radio and television and is compulsory, regardless of whether you use these services or not.
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Billing for utility services: Find out how electricity, water and heating costs are billed. In some tenancy agreements, these costs are included in the rent, in others they have to be paid separately. Clarify this with your landlord to avoid any surprises.
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Internet: Check whether costs for internet (Wi-Fi) are included in the rental price. If not, you may need to set up your own Internet connection. Ask about the procedure and the associated costs.
5 Tips to Find an Apartment Despite the Challenges
Tip 1: Monitor Rental listings:
The number of requests for rental offers is so high that most of them only stay online for a very short time. Pay attention to the peak times when new offers appear and respond to them quickly.
Tip 2: Reduce Your Search criteria:
For example, limiting your search to apartments with a balcony can greatly reduce the selection. Bear in mind that 20% of apartments in major German cities do not have a balcony. Stay flexible by limiting yourself to the criteria you really need for your new apartment.
Tip 3: Timing Matters:
Peak season (summer and fall):
Student movement: In late summer and early fall, many students move to Berlin to begin their studies. This leads to an increased demand for apartments.
Career change: Many employees use the summer months to relocate for work, which also increases demand.
Low season (winter and spring): Less competition: demand is generally lower in the winter months and early spring, making it easier to find a suitable apartment.
Tip 4: Build Trust with Landlords:
Most rentals are offered by private landlords who value a smooth rental experience. Making a positive personal impression and providing complete documentation, including proof of income and creditworthiness, is crucial.
Landlords prioritize:
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44% personal impression
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25% proof of income
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14% credit report
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94% of landlords rent only to those with complete documentation.
Tip 5: Consider the Countryside:
Living outside the city can offer more peace, nature, and space. Working remotely eases the burden of lengthy commutes. Over a quarter of people worry about losing social connections, but many find the benefits outweigh the concerns.
Why use a Relocation Agency?
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Trust and Security: Housing providers often prefer to work with relocation agencies. These agencies are familiar with the processes and offer a high level of trust and security for both parties.
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Experience and Expertise: Relocation agencies have years of experience in the real estate and relocation fields. They understand the needs of both tenants and landlords and can provide tailored solutions.
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Comprehensive service: Relocation agencies handle all the details from the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung and security deposit management to the apartment handover, so you can focus on what matters most.
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Flexibility and Transparency: Rental contracts through relocation agencies are designed to be flexible and transparent, making them the best solution for temporary housing needs.
Conclusion
Booking temporary housing in Berlin involves various considerations, starting with the duration of the rental period and understanding the importance of a security deposit and proper handover documentation. Using a relocation agency can significantly simplify the process, offering more clarity, security, and comprehensive service.
Interested? Visit reliable sources to learn more about temporary housing options and services in Berlin. Here are some helpful links:
We look forward to working with you to find the perfect temporary home in Berlin.