Securing housing and accommodation is one of the most important steps before moving into a new city and it’s quite difficult especially if one is a new renter. In the German housing system having a prior Lease history is required before securing an apartment, new renters may be facing some difficulties in getting a space to live in as most homeowners demand the document to verify incoming tenants and evaluate their ability to keep up rent payment.
But without a Prior Lease History, there are still ways for foreigners, recent graduates, or others without previous tenancy references to get accommodation in Germany. This article will provide renters without a rental history steps to finding their first apartment in Germany without a Prior Lease History.
Germany has strict tenant laws that aim to balance the interests of landlords and renters. Landlords are hesitant to take risks on unknown tenants when replacing a good previous renter can be difficult. At the same time, many renters relocating to Germany find themselves in the position of having no lease history to prove their credibility.
Renting an apartment in Germany without a rental history can be challenging, but there are effective strategies you can employ to improve your chances. Here are some key approaches:
I. Look for a Guarantor
Certain landlords may require guarantors to stand in for you to ascertain your reliability as a tenant so they can step in if you default with payment. Employers, Parents, or Family and Friends are good options for guarantors, and with good relationships with them, they may be willing to co-sign the lease, To act as a guarantor (Bürge) for a tenant in Germany, the individuals must have a good credit history, valid means of identification and those resident in the country are preferred by landlords.
II. Offer a Larger Security Deposit
A large security deposit shows financial capabilities and the landlord could be willing to waive the demand for a prior lease history. A 3-6 month rent could just be what you need to make the landlord willing to rent.
III. Emphasize Stable Job/Income
Landlords in Germany often prioritize tenants with stable incomes. To strengthen your application:
- Provide Proof of Employment: Present documentation such as your employment contract, especially if it is a permanent contract, to show your ability to pay rent consistently.
- Show Financial Stability: Include recent pay slips or bank statements that reflect your income and financial health.
- Consider Student or Temporary Housing
Student dorms, short-term corporate housing, or vacation rentals are all options designed for shorter stays and they usually don’t go through the strict background checks like long-term housing. You could also look for temporary furnished housing that only requires contracts of a few months’ duration while you get requirements for the apartment of your choice.
2.Provide Character References
Leveraging good relationships with contacts like past supervisors, instructors, or clergy who know you well and can vouch for your positive character traits like responsibility, honesty, and reliability as a tenant could break the ice.
Even if you don’t have rental references, strong personal recommendations from reputable people can help remove the need for a prior lease history.
3. Explain Your Situation Honestly
Presenting your background and reasons for relocation shows good faith and allows landlords to understand your circumstances.
Laying out a credible plan for the future shows your ability to work, study, or establish yourself so landlords see you as a safe bet over the long run.