Easy home hunting
Are you looking for an apartment or a house in the city? Or do you prefer living in a small town out in the country? From a single-family home with a backyard to a modern rental condo or an apartment share, in Rhineland-Palatinate you’ll find a home that suits your needs.
How to find the right housing
Use real estate listing portals
Many house and apartment listings are posted online. Filter your search by size, location, and price.
Hire a real estate broker
Real estate brokerages find suitable properties in return for a commission. This commission can be up to two months’ rent plus VAT.
Check the fixtures
Housing usually comes unfurnished. Ask about the exact fixtures that will be included at an in-person viewing.
Prepare your documents
Landlords usually want to see your job contract and salary statements for the last three months before you can sign a lease; you can get these documents from your employer. Some landlords require further documents, such as a credit report.
Understanding leases and ancillary expenses
Leases in Germany are generally concluded without a time limitation and have a three-month notice period for termination. In addition to the base rent, there will be ancillary charges for heating, water, trash collection, and other services. It’s common to take a security deposit equal to two to three months’ rent. When the lease has ended, you’ll get this deposit back if there is no damage to the apartment or house.
Registering your residence with the municipal registration office
You need to register your new address at the competent residence registration office (the community or municipal administration) in your town of residence within two weeks’ time. You should make an appointment for this.
Registering for radio and television reception
Every dwelling is required to pay a contribution for television and radio services provided by the public broadcasters ARD, ZDF, and Deutschlandradio. Register your change of residence with the license fee administration service (Beitragsservice).
Setting up energy and internet access
Compare providers and sign up for plans. And you’ll have everything you need from day one.
Become part of the neighborhood
Introduce yourself to your neighbors. A friendly “Hallo” can open doors and help you settle in. Label your mailbox and doorbell with your first and surnames.
Special aspects of housing in Germany
In Germany, you can also rent furnished rooms or apartments on a temporary basis. Some universities, research institutions, and larger enterprises in Rhineland-Palatinate have their own guest houses and employee dwellings which you can rent for the initial time after you arrive. It’s common to have to disclose your finances to your broker or landlord. A copy of your employment contract and/or bank statements or pay stubs is usually enough for this.