Searching for Housing as a Student: Tips and Tricks

First things first:

Explore different housing options to find the best fit for you
Start your search early
Use a variety of platforms for your housing hunt
Prepare your application documents carefully
Be aware of hidden costs and avoid scams

First, ask yourself: What kind of housing suits me?

Student Dormitories

These are often cheaper than private rentals, depending on the provider (university, church, or private organizations), but they are highly sought after. Spots are usually allocated by the local student services office. Check with your university and be mindful of application deadlines! First come, first served — apply early to secure a spot on the waiting list.

Shared Apartments

Shared apartments are a favorite among students as they are not only more affordable but also a great way to meet other students. Think about what type of shared flat is suitable for you. A wild party shared flat, the family flat share that cooks together every evening, or would you prefer a purpose-built shared flat?

Private Apartments

Having your own apartment offers a lot of privacy, but it is more expensive and often harder to find. Prices can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood. Would you consider living on the outskirts or in a suburb? Generally, the farther from the city center, the lower the demand — and the better your chances.

Alternative Housing Options:

Subletting

Whether it’s an elderly person with a large house or a young family in the suburbs, some people rent out individual rooms in their homes. This comes with both pros and cons compared to traditional housing. Sublets are often reasonably priced, but they don’t provide the same student atmosphere as a shared flat. While party-loving flatmates might keep you from studying or sleeping, living with a family typically offers more peace and quiet. Whether the landlord is looking for additional income or simply enjoys company varies. Set clear expectations and boundaries before signing any agreements.

Living for Help

In some cities, there’s a concept called “Living for Help”, where a person offers a room in exchange for help around the house. The scope of this help is agreed upon in a contract and may include tasks like gardening, housekeeping, childcare, or pet care — but excludes caregiving duties.

Housing Cooperatives

Have you heard of housing or housing cooperatives?

Housing cooperatives are associations of people who jointly own and manage apartments. The aim of these organisations is to provide affordable housing for their members without aiming to maximise profits. As a member of a cooperative, you also become a co-owner of the cooperative and thus have special rights, such as a say in decisions about the management of the cooperative.

Advantages for Students:

Affordable Rent: Cooperative housing is often cheaper than market-rate apartments, as profits are not a priority. Rent is usually stable and doesn’t rise as steeply as with private landlords.
Long-Term Security: Cooperative apartments offer greater housing stability since evictions are rare and only occur under exceptional circumstances. This is especially beneficial for students planning to stay in one place for a while.
Community Focus: Cooperatives emphasize community, sometimes organizing events or projects that strengthen social ties. For students, this can be a great way to integrate into a neighborhood.
Voice in Decisions: As a member, you can participate in key decisions regarding renovations or other cooperative matters.

How to Access Cooperative Housing:

To rent a cooperative apartment, you typically need to become a member of the cooperative. Some allow non-members to apply for housing, but waiting lists are often long due to high demand.

In major cities, wait times can range from months to years, so it’s wise to apply early and to multiple cooperatives. Membership often requires purchasing shares, which can be a financial hurdle. Research the share costs in advance to ensure they fit your budget.

The shares you have to buy when you join the cooperative can be a financial hurdle. Find out in advance exactly how much the shares will be available and check whether it fits into your budget.

As a member, you’ll have not only rights but also responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with the cooperative’s rules, such as obligations to attend member meetings or participate in projects.

What Platforms can help with the Search?

Here are some popular online platforms to assist in your housing search:

WG-Gesucht.de: One of Germany’s largest platforms for shared apartments and housing. Ideal for students seeking a room or flatmates.
Immoscout24.de: A well-known real estate platform with a broad selection of properties, including shared apartments and private rentals.
Student unions: Local student services offices often provide information about available dormitory spots and other housing options.
Facebook Groups: Many cities have dedicated housing search groups where individuals post private offers.
Classified Ads: Websites like eBay Kleinanzeigen are also useful, especially for renting directly from private landlords.

What should Students look out for when Searching for Housing?

Costs: Examine rental costs carefully, including utilities (electricity, water, heating) and internet fees. Check whether the rent is listed as “warm rent” (including utilities) or “cold rent” (excluding utilities).
Location: Consider the distance to your university, supermarkets, and public transportation. Apartments in city centers are often pricier, whereas cheaper options are more likely in suburban areas.
Application Documents: Prepare essential documents such as:
- Credit report (proof of creditworthiness)
- Proof of income (often a parental guarantees for students)
- Tenant self-disclosure form
- Copy of your ID
Apartment viewing: Inspect the property closely during viewings. Note any issues or planned renovations and take photos for reference.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Start Early: Begin your search months in advance, ideally before peak periods like September or October when demand surges.
Leverage Networks: Ask friends, classmates, and acquaintances if they know of available rooms or apartments. Many properties are rented through personal connections before being listed publicly.
Be Proactive: Write a housing request and post it on bulletin boards or local classifieds. Older landlords, in particular, may prefer avoiding online listings and large numbers of applicants.

Housing Eligibility Certificate

In principle, students in Germany can obtain a certificate of eligibility for housing (WBS) if they meet the relevant requirements. The WBS entitles the holder to move into social housing that is subsidized by the state. The WBS is only awarded to people with low incomes. There are fixed income limits that differ depending on the federal state and household size. The income of the parents is usually not taken into account as long as they do not live in the household. To apply for a WBS, you must also have your main residence in the city where you are applying. This is especially important for students who are new to a city. Many cities require that you are already registered before applying for the WBS. The application for a housing eligibility certificate is submitted to the responsible housing office or the corresponding authority of the city or municipality. The required documents vary depending on the city. Find out in advance from the housing office about the exact requirements and the application process, as these can differ slightly from city to city.

What mistakes should be avoided?

Starting Too Late: In popular cities, the best options go fast. Latecomers often have to settle for overpriced or less desirable alternatives.

Overlooking hidden costs: Check if utilities are included in the rent. Additional fees are often not immediately obvious.

Blindly accept: Never sign a lease without visiting the apartment. Photos can be misleading, and hidden defects may only be apparent in person.

Falling for Scams: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. Scammers often demand money upfront without allowing a viewing.

Don’t check the tenancy agreement carefully: Read the tenancy agreement carefully and pay attention to clauses that could cost you dearly later, such as regulations on renovation obligations or hidden fees.

Conclusion

Finding housing as a student can be a major challenge depending on your location. But don’t lose hope! With proper planning and persistence, you’re sure to find a place that works for you. Start early, prepare all necessary documents, and stay determined. With these tips, you’ll be ready to kick off your semester in your new home. Good luck!

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