Apartment Hunting as an Expat

Finding an apartment in Germany as a foreigner is doubly hard. No SCHUFA score, no German salary, no references. Here's how to do it anyway.

The SCHUFA problem

New to Germany = no SCHUFA score. This is like 'no credit history', not 'bad credit'. Explain this in your cover letter. Alternatives: Creditreform or similar from home country, bank reference, employer guarantee.

Involve your employer

Many international companies help with relocation: guarantees, landlord contacts, temporary housing. Ask HR! A letter from your employer with salary confirmation in German is gold.

Furnished apartments as a start

Easier to get, no furniture needed, often no long contract commitment. More expensive per square meter, but makes sense for the first period. Homelike, Wunderflats, Spotahome are reputable providers.

Translating documents

Employment contract, income proof, references - everything in German or English. Certified translations rarely necessary, but must be legible. Use German template for cover letter.

Pro Tips

✓Use company relocation services if available
✓Join expat groups on Facebook/LinkedIn
✓Start furnished, then search at leisure
✓Set up German bank account quickly (N26, Revolut)
✓Registration needs address - solve Catch-22 with hotels

Watch Out

!Never rent without viewing - scams target expats
!No advance payment abroad
!If 'too good to be true' - it's a scam
!Use WG-Gesucht and ImmoScout, not just expat portals

More Guides

SCHUFA Credit Report for Landlords →The Perfect Cover Letter →All Documents Overview →Mastering the Viewing →Your First Apartment →Recognizing Rental Scams →Shared Apartment Guide →Your Rights as a Tenant →Housing Cooperatives: The Secret Tip →Understanding Your Lease →Planning Your Move →

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