Finding an apartment in Munich can be a tough task and a rather pricey one at that. However, provided you’ve made up your mind to move to Munich, or you’re currently living in the area and looking to relocate, there are many of tips and tricks that may have you securing an apartment just in time for your arrival, or the end of your currently existing lease.
Things to know:
- What area of Munich are you planning on moving to? This is important as Munich is a rather large city, and you don’t want to waste your energy looking at apartments on one side of town, when you’ll be working all the way on the other side of town.
- What extra costs can I expect? This is where a lot of people experience difficulty. Not simply because they don’t know how much they can afford to spend on an apartment, but primarily because they aren’t aware of all the additions that come into play when renting an apartment in Munich. Know the difference between katmiete (excluding utilities) and warmmiete (including utilities, except electricity). If you’re using a real estate agent, know the fee that you are obligated to pay. Remember that most landlords require a security deposit which is usually two months rent.
- Is the apartment furnished? Perhaps you’ve already collected enough furniture to get your new apartment all filled up and homey. If not, you may want to consider renting your furniture. This is a great option, especially for people who aren’t planning on permanently moving to Germany, or for those who have arranged for their furniture to be shipped from their home country. There simply aren’t many furnished apartments in Munich. Renting furniture is a viable and inexpensive option, especially in comparison to buying furniture in Germany (can be pretty cheap, but you get what you pay for). Furniture rental companies often offer a monthly payment system, delivery, and set up as well as removal of all furniture once you’re ready to take on other adventures to another part of Germany, or back to your home country.
Where to look for an apartment in Munich?
When on the hunt for an apartment or room in Munich you will easily realize the importance of the local newspaper. Check religiously for ads that fit your budget and any other requirements you may have set. Do not hesitate to call, as you’ll have a lot of competition and accommodation tends to rent rather rapidly.
Keep your ears wide open and communicate with your friends and colleagues that you are searching for a accommodation. Let them know that if they hear of an opening from someone they know, that they should recommend you.
The internet may also be your best friend when it comes to finding real estate in Munich.
Valuable websites include:
– Immocenter.Sueddeutsche
– Munich Mitwohnzentrale
– EasyRoomMate.com
– www.wg-gesucht.de
– www.studenten-wg.de
– www.easywg.de
– www.wg-welt.de
If you are not currently living in Munich, but do have friends or family in the area, plan a weekend trip where you can meet with landlords or real estate agents. Landlords find it easier to rent an apartment to someone they have seen rather than someone they’ve solely communicated with over the phone or via email.
