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From the Ad to Moving In: Tips for Finding a Shared Apartment

Finding a suitable shared apartment (called WG in Germany) can be an exciting but also challenging task. Especially in big cities, the housing market is highly competitive and finding the right shared apartment often requires time, patience and a good strategy. In this article, we explain step by step what you should look out for when searching for a shared apartment, how to find the best offers and what you need to consider when choosing roommates to ensure a harmonious coexistence. Whether you're looking for a shared apartment for the first time or already have experience - these tips will help you find the ideal place to live.

Drei junge Menschen genießen den Sonnenuntergang, heben die Arme und symbolisieren Freundschaft & eine WG Gemeinschaft.

Shared Apartment Search Consideration 1: The Shared Apartment Market in Germany

The shared apartment market in Germany is strongly characterized by regional differences and reflects the general trends in the housing market. Here are some key aspects that characterize the market for shared apartments in Germany:

High demand in major cities

Urban centers and university cities: Demand for shared apartments is particularly high in major cities such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Cologne, as well as in university cities such as Heidelberg, Freiburg and Münster. This is due to the high concentration of students, young professionals and young professionals who are often looking for affordable housing.
Housing shortage: There is a housing shortage in many of these cities, leading to rising rents and a competitive market. The number of shared apartment applicants per room is often very high here, and it is not uncommon to receive dozens of applications for one room.

Regional differences

East-west divide: In the Eastern German states, rents are often even more moderate than in western metropolitan areas, which also affects the shared apartment market. Cities such as Leipzig or Dresden often offer cheaper alternatives to Western German cities, but are increasingly attracting more young people, which is leading to an increase in demand.
Small towns and rural regions: The shared apartment market is less tight in smaller towns and rural areas. There is often a larger selection of rooms at moderate prices, but demand is also lower as fewer students and young professionals live there.

Price trends

Rising rents: In recent years, rents for shared apartments have risen sharply in many German cities. This is particularly true in the major cities, where room prices of over 500 euros per month (warm rent) are no longer uncommon.
Differences within cities: There are also big differences in room prices within cities. Particularly trendy districts or those with good infrastructure are more expensive, while outlying districts often offer cheaper alternatives.

Influence of the coronavirus pandemic

Temporary easing: During the coronavirus pandemic, there was a temporary easing in the shared apartment market in some cities, as many students returned to their home cities or fewer international students came to Germany. In some cities, this led to a smaller increase in rents or even a decrease.
Long-term effects: In the long term, however, the market has picked up again, especially with the return to face-to-face teaching at universities and the revival of the economy.

Alternative forms of living

Co-living: Co-living concepts are gaining in importance in major German cities. These modern shared apartments often offer fully furnished rooms and extensive common areas, but tend to be more expensive than traditional shared rooms.
Intermediate rent: Intermediate rentals are a popular option, especially for students on a semester abroad or interns. Rooms are made available temporarily, often at lower prices.

Challenges for those looking for a shared apartment

Competitive pressure: Competition is high in popular cities. To get a room, applicants often have to assert themselves against many competitors and impress at shared apartment castings.
Flexibility and adaptability: Due to the high demand, flexibility and adaptability are important. This may include a willingness to live in less central parts of the city or to accept shorter tenancies.

The shared apartment market in Germany has a strong regional focus and is particularly tight in large cities. Students and young professionals should be prepared for high rents and strong competition, especially in popular cities. At the same time, there are alternatives in smaller cities and through modern living concepts such as co-living, but these are often more expensive. Flexibility and good preparation are crucial to finding a suitable shared apartment.

Shared apartment search Consideration 2: Advantages and disadvantages of a room in a shared apartment

This table provides an overview of the common advantages and disadvantages of living in a shared apartment, which should be considered when deciding whether or not to choose this form of housing.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Lower rental costs	Less privacy
Social contacts and community	Different lifestyles and habits can lead to conflicts
Shared household costs	Dependence on roommates for cleanliness and tidiness
Shared use of furniture and appliances	Less space for personal belongings
Flexibility (e.g. interim rent)	Noise pollution from flatmates
Opportunity to make friends	Possible disagreements in shared apartment organization
Mutual support in everyday life	Different expectations of living together
Help with household chores	Agreements and compromises necessary
Reduced risk of loneliness	Possible difficulties with rest or retreat times
Getting to know a variety of life perspectives	Less freedom of choice in the design of the living space

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Shared apartment search Consideration 3: Where can I find a suitable shared apartment?

Finding a suitable shared apartment often requires a combination of different search strategies. Here are some of the best places and methods to find what you're looking for:

Online apartment portals: German platforms such as WG-Gesucht, ImmoScout24, eBay Kleinanzeigen, and Immowelt offer a large selection of shared apartments in Germany in various price ranges and neighborhoods. These sites often also allow you to filter by size, price and furnishings.
Social media: Facebook groups specifically for shared apartment searches or local apartment exchanges are a good place to start. Platforms such as Instagram can also be helpful, as some shared apartments advertise directly there.
Universities and colleges: Bulletin boards at universities, digital university platforms or student union websites often offer shared apartments or interim rentals. This can be an effective method, especially in university cities.
Network and acquaintances: You often find out about available rooms through friends, acquaintances or fellow students. Ask around to see if anyone knows of a shared apartment that is available or knows someone who is looking for a room.
Newspapers and local advertising papers: In many cities, the traditional method of advertising in newspapers is still used. Local advertising papers can be particularly useful if you are looking in a specific city or region.
Search locally: In neighborhoods that you find particularly attractive, it's worth looking directly for notices at supermarkets, cafés or kiosks. Some shared apartments still display traditional notices there.
Shared apartment agencies: In some cities, there are agencies that specialize in finding shared apartments. These can help if you don't have time to search intensively yourself.

By combining these methods, you increase your chances of finding the ideal shared apartment that fits your budget and your expectations.

Shared apartment search Consideration 4: What to look out for in the shared apartment and room?

When looking for a suitable shared apartment and room, there are several important aspects that you should pay attention to in order to ensure that living together is harmonious and pleasant. These are the most important points to consider. By checking these points carefully, you can ensure that you find a shared apartment that suits your needs and expectations.

Location and surroundings	Proximity to workplace/university	Check the distance to important places such as your workplace or university. Short distances save time and money.
	Public transport connections	Make sure you have good public transport connections.
	Shopping facilities	It is practical if supermarkets, pharmacies and other stores are nearby.
	Neighborhood	Explore the neighborhood. Is it safe? Are there parks, cafés or leisure facilities?
Room size and facilities	Size of the room	Make sure the room is big enough for your needs (e.g. space for bed, desk, wardrobe).
	Furnishing	Clarify whether the room is furnished or unfurnished. A furnished room saves costs and effort if you don't have your own furniture.
	Light conditions	Pay attention to the brightness of the room. Daylight can have a big impact on your well-being.
	Condition of the room	Check the condition of the walls, floors and windows. Any defects should be rectified before you move in.
Shared apartment composition and dynamics	Age and living situation of the flatmates	Make sure that the age structure and lifestyles of the flatmates suit you. A shared apartment made up of students is often different from a shared apartment for professionals.
	Communication and organization	Clarify how communication takes place in the shared apartment and how tasks such as cleaning or shopping are organized.
	Shared interests	Shared hobbies or interests can make living together more enjoyable.
	Cleanliness and tidiness	Ask about expectations in terms of cleanliness and tidiness. Different standards can lead to conflicts.
Costs and contract terms	Rent and ancillary costs	Check which costs are included in the rent (e.g. electricity, internet, heating) and which are additional.
	Deposit and notice periods	Find out about the amount of the deposit and the applicable notice periods. These should be clearly regulated in the rental agreement.
	Other costs	Clarify whether there are regular additional expenses, e.g. for cleaning materials or household appliances.
General atmosphere	Living environment	Make sure that you feel comfortable in the shared apartment when you view it. The general atmosphere should be pleasant and inviting.
	Conversation with flatmates	Have a detailed conversation with the flatmates to find out whether you are on the same wavelength and whether the chemistry is right.
	Flexibility	Check how flexible the shared apartment is, e.g. regarding visiting times, overnight guests or communal activities.
Rules and expectations	House rules	Find out about the existing rules in the shared apartment, e.g. regarding quiet times, smoking, pets and visitors.
	Personal space	Clarify how much privacy you have in the shared apartment and how often shared activities are expected.

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Shared Apartment Search Consideration 5: Shared apartment casting and viewing

A flat share casting and a flat share viewing are crucial steps in the search for the right flat share room and the right flat share. Here is an overview of what you should bear in mind:

Shared Apartment Casting

A shared apartment casting is like a job interview, where you introduce yourself as a potential flatmate. Existing flatmates often invite several interested parties at the same time to find out who is the best fit for the shared apartment. Here are some tips for a successful shared apartment casting:

Preparation
- Self-introduction: Think about the best way to present yourself. Introduce your most important qualities, interests and your everyday life. What makes you a good flatmate?
- Interests and hobbies: Be prepared to talk about your hobbies and interests in order to find common ground with the flatmates.
- Questions for the shared apartment: Show interest by asking questions about the shared apartment, the flatmates and everyday life. What does the shared apartment expect from you? How is the household organized?
- Honesty: Be honest about your own habits and expectations. It is better to communicate clearly from the start than to risk conflicts later on.
Behavior during the casting
- Sympathy and openness: Be friendly and open-minded. A positive demeanor can often make all the difference.
- Active participation: Take an active part in the conversation without dominating it. Make sure that you give others space.
- Respect and politeness: Respect the rules of the shared apartment and be polite to your flatmates and other applicants.
After the audition
- Ask questions: If you feel unsure after the audition or have unanswered questions, you can ask politely. This shows additional interest.
- Wait for feedback: The shared apartment will often let you know after a reflection period. Patience is important here.

Shared Apartment Viewing

A shared apartment viewing gives you the opportunity to take a closer look at the apartment and the room and get to know the flatmates personally. You should keep the following in mind:

Preparation
- Make an appointment: Make an appointment for the viewing and be punctual. Reliability is an important factor.
- Checklist: Make a list of important points that you would like to check during the viewing, e.g. room size, condition of the apartment, communal areas.
During the viewing
- Room and apartment: Take a close look at the room and communal areas. Are they in good condition? Does the furnishing suit your needs?
- Location and surroundings: Pay attention to the location of the shared apartment, e.g. public transport connections and the area around the apartment.
- Ask questions: Ask questions about the apartment, the tenancy agreement, the costs and the organization of everyday life. How is cleaning organized? Is there a household budget?
- Observe the atmosphere: Pay attention to how the flatmates treat each other and what the general mood in the shared apartment is like. Do you feel comfortable?
After the viewing
- Reflect: Take some time to consider whether you can imagine living in a shared apartment. Do the flatmates and the apartment match your expectations?
- Communicate your decision: If you decide to move into the shared apartment, let them know as soon as possible. If you cancel, inform the shared apartment just as promptly and politely.

Shared Apartment Search Consideration 6: No-Go's when looking for a shared apartment

When looking for a shared apartment, there are some “no-go's” that you should definitely avoid in order to increase your chances of finding a suitable room and make a good impression on potential flatmates. To be successful in your shared apartment search, it's important to make a good first impression, behave respectfully and honestly and prepare well. By avoiding these no-go's, you increase your chances of finding a suitable shared apartment where you feel comfortable and the flatmates are a good fit for you. Here are some of the most important ones:

Dishonesty

False information: It is a serious mistake to exaggerate or give false information when presenting yourself, for example about your financial circumstances or lifestyle. These untruths could lead to serious problems after you move in at the latest.
Hiding habits: Don't hide habits that are important for living together, e.g. smoking, frequent parties or pets. It is better to communicate openly to prevent later conflicts.

Disrespectful behavior

Rudeness: Disrespectful or rude behavior towards the flatmates or the hosts of the viewing is a clear no-go. This includes interrupting the flatmates, belittling their opinions or being overly critical.
Negative comments: Avoid speaking badly about previous shared apartments, landlords or cities. This could give the impression that you are difficult to deal with.

Lack of communication

No feedback: If you don't give any feedback after a casting or viewing or leave acceptances unanswered, this makes you look unreliable. A short, polite message is also important for rejections.
Difficult to reach: If you are difficult to reach or slow to respond to messages, this can also be a negative point, especially in a competitive market.

Expectations too high

Unrealistic expectations: It's a mistake to have too high or unrealistic expectations of your shared apartment or room, especially in cities with a tight housing market. Being too picky can cause you to miss out on many opportunities.
Excessive demands: Excessive demands, such as a completely flexible roommate structure or constant changes to the shared apartment routine, can also be received negatively.

Ignoring the shared apartment rules

Violating the house rules: You should respect existing rules and agreements in the shared apartment. Anyone who announces at the casting stage that they intend to break the rules (e.g. smoking despite not smoking in a shared apartment) is likely to be rejected.
No willingness to integrate: If you present yourself as a loner from the outset and show no willingness to get involved in the shared apartment community, you will often be perceived as unsuitable.

Financial uncertainties

Insufficient Financial Planning: It is an absolute no-go if you do not communicate the financial aspects clearly or try to negotiate down the rent or deposit without having a valid reason.
Unclear ability to pay: If you cannot ensure that you will be able to pay the rent regularly, you should clarify this before applying for a shared apartment.

Unprepared introduction

No preparation: It's a no-go if you don't prepare for the shared apartment casting or the viewing. This means that you don't have answers to simple questions or have no idea about the shared apartment or the city you want to live in.
Show no interest: You should show interest in the flatmates and the shared apartment by asking questions and actively participating in the conversation. A lack of interest or passivity comes across as unmotivated and can be perceived negatively.

Too intrusive behavior

Excessive attempts at contact: After a shared apartment casting or viewing, you should not follow up too intrusively or badger the flatmates. A short, polite follow-up call or message is okay, but multiple requests can be perceived as intrusive.

Unpunctuality

Reliability: Punctuality is a sign of respect and reliability. If you are invited to a viewing appointment or shared apartment casting, you should definitely arrive on time. Arriving late can make a bad first impression and reduce your chances.

Unkempt appearance

Appearance: An unkempt or inappropriate appearance at the viewing or shared apartment casting can leave a bad impression. Of course, you don't have to appear formal, but clean, neat clothing and a well-groomed appearance are important.

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Shared apartment search Consideration 7: What costs will incur?

The total cost of finding and living in a shared apartment can vary greatly depending on the city, location and your individual needs. It is advisable to draw up a detailed budget before you start your search to ensure that you can afford the shared apartment in the long term.

Item	Variant	Explanation
Rent	Basic rent	This is the basic amount you pay for the use of the room, excluding additional costs. The basic rent depends on the location, size and furnishings of the room.
	Service charges (operating costs)	In addition to the basic rent, there are often monthly service charges for heating, water, refuse collection and house cleaning.
	Warm rent	The warm rent comprises the basic rent plus the ancillary costs and is the total amount you pay to the landlord each month.
Deposit	Security deposit	A deposit is usually required when you move in, usually amounting to 2 to 3 months' rent. This serves as security for the landlord and will be refunded to you when you move out, provided no damage has occurred.
Commission (estate agent fees)	Estate agent commission	If you are looking for a room through an estate agent, a commission may be charged. This is usually 2-3 months' cold rent plus VAT. However, this is rare when looking for a shared apartment, as many shared apartments are arranged without a broker.
Furnishing costs	Furniture	If the room is unfurnished, you may have to invest in new furniture (bed, wardrobe, desk, etc.).
	Decoration and household items	Expenses for decoration and household items (crockery, lamps, bed linen) should also be planned for.
Moving costs	Transportation costs	Depending on the distance, you may need to rent a moving van or pay for moving helpers.
	Packing materials	Costs for boxes, protective film and other packing materials.
Other regular costs	Internet and telephone	If this is not included in the additional costs, there will be additional costs for an Internet and telephone connection.
	Electricity costs	Electricity costs are often not included in the service charges and must be paid separately.
	Broadcasting fee	This statutory contribution is mandatory in Germany and currently amounts to around 18.36 euros per month.
	Household budget	Many shared apartments have a common budget for cleaning materials, toilet paper and other shared household items.
Food and personal expenses	Food	The cost of food varies depending on your lifestyle and shopping habits.
	Insurance	Consider whether you need additional insurance, e.g. liability insurance that also covers damage in the shared apartment.
Other costs	Shared apartment casting	If you have to travel to another city for a shared apartment casting, you may incur travel costs (train, bus, car).
	Possible agency fees	In rare cases, flat-sharing communities charge a small agency fee, e.g. for interim rentals via platforms.

Shared apartment search Consideration 8: The shared apartment rental agreement and legal pitfalls

A shared apartment tenancy agreement is an important legal framework for living together in a shared apartment. It is crucial to check the contract carefully and be aware of legal pitfalls to avoid future conflicts. A shared apartment tenancy agreement should be carefully checked and understood in order to avoid legal pitfalls. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek legal advice, especially if the contract clauses are complex or unclear. By paying attention to these aspects, you can ensure a safe and stress-free living situation in the shared apartment. Here are the most important aspects and potential problems you should be aware of:

Types of shared apartment tenancy agreements

Main tenancy agreement: One person (the main tenant) concludes the tenancy agreement directly with the landlord and sublets rooms to the flatmates. The main tenant bears the main responsibility towards the landlord.
Subletting agreement: The main tenant sublets rooms to other people. The subtenants only have a contractual relationship with the main tenant, not with the landlord.
Joint tenancy agreement: All shared apartment residents sign the tenancy agreement with the landlord together. All tenants are equally responsible and jointly and severally liable for the rent.

Important contract clauses

Rent and ancillary costs: Make sure that the amount of rent and ancillary costs are clearly and transparently listed in the contract. Clarify what exactly is included in the ancillary costs.
Rental period and notice period: Pay attention to the contractually stipulated rental period and notice periods. The notice period is often decisive, especially for open-ended contracts (usually three months).
Deposit: The amount of the deposit should be clearly regulated in the rental agreement. It may amount to a maximum of three months' rent.
Renovation obligations: Pay attention to clauses on renovation and maintenance. Frequent points of contention are the question of whether cosmetic repairs must be carried out when moving out.
Rights of use: The contract should specify which areas of the apartment may be used by everyone (e.g. kitchen, bathroom, living room) and which rooms remain private.
House rules: Some tenancy agreements include house rules. Check these for regulations on quiet hours, pets, visitors and smoking.

Legal pitfalls

Joint and several liabilities: In a joint tenancy agreement, all tenants are jointly and severally liable. This means that if one person does not pay the rent, the others may be obliged to pay.
Subletting without permission: If you sublet as the main tenant, you generally need the landlord's consent. Without this consent, this can lead to termination without notice.
Contract takeover when moving out: If a flatmate moves out and a new one moves in, it must be clarified whether the tenancy agreement will be rewritten or whether the new tenant will move in as a subtenant. Simply taking over the contract is not always legally unproblematic.
Special right of termination: Under certain circumstances, there may be a special right of termination, e.g. in the event of serious conflicts within the shared apartment. This should be regulated in the contract.
Cosmetic repairs: Tenants are often obliged to carry out cosmetic repairs (e.g. painting the walls). Not all clauses on this are legally permissible - in particular, blanket obligations without specific requirements may be invalid.
Operating cost statement: Make sure that the operating cost statement is transparent and correct. It is important that the statement is understandable and comprehensible.

Tips for avoiding conflicts

Put verbal agreements in writing: All agreements that go beyond the rental agreement should be recorded in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
Regular shared apartment meetings: To avoid conflicts, regular shared apartment meetings where all organizational and financial issues are discussed can help.
Consultation in the event of problems: If ambiguities or problems arise, seek early consultation with the landlord or flatmates to find a solution.

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Tips for finding a shared apartment

Finding a suitable shared apartment can be challenging, especially in big cities with a tight housing market. Finding a shared apartment requires good preparation, flexibility, and often a little patience. But with the right strategies and a positive attitude, you can find a shared apartment that you feel comfortable in and that suits your lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you successfully find a shared apartment:

Tip regarding ...	Tip	Explanation
Start early	Search early	Start your shared apartment search as early as possible, ideally a few months before your planned move. The market is particularly competitive at the start of the semester or during peak season.
Use online platforms	WG-Gesucht & Co.	Use specialized platforms such as WG-Gesucht, ImmoScout24 or eBay Kleinanzeigen. These sites offer filter functions to narrow down your search by price, location and other criteria.
	Social media	Facebook groups and other social networks are also a good place to find shared apartments. Look out for local groups and topic-specific housing exchanges.
Create a meaningful profile	Introductory text	A well-designed profile or an application with a friendly, open introductory text can make all the difference. Introduce yourself briefly, mention your most important qualities, hobbies and what you hope to get out of living in a shared apartment.
	Photos	A friendly photo can improve the first impression. It should look natural and match your text.
Stay flexible	Location	Be flexible in your choice of neighborhood. There are often cheaper offers in outlying areas or less popular districts. Consider whether you could also live in other neighborhoods that may not be as central.
	Duration of tenancy	Consider whether you are also interested in interim tenancies or fixed-term tenancy agreements. This can give you time to look for a long-term solution.
Use personal networks	Friends and acquaintances	Tell people around you that you are looking for a shared apartment. Friends or colleagues often find out about vacant rooms before they are advertised publicly.
	Notice boards	Notice boards in cafés, supermarkets or universities can be a good way to find out about shared apartments in your area.
Good preparation for viewings	Inform yourself	Familiarize yourself with the shared apartment and the district before the viewing. This shows interest and gives you something to talk about.
	Ask questions	Think about questions about the shared apartment, the flatmates and the rental conditions in advance. Take an interest in the shared apartment dynamics and living together.
	Punctuality	Be punctual and reliable. This leaves a positive impression and shows that you take the shared apartment seriously.
Honesty and authenticity	Stay honest	Be honest about your habits and expectations. It is important that you fit in with the shared apartment and vice versa. Dishonesty can lead to problems later on.
	Be yourself	Be authentic. After all, you will be living there and you want to find a shared apartment where you feel comfortable.
Clarify finances	Set a budget	Set yourself a realistic budget for rent and utilities. Also take into account additional expenses such as a deposit, moving costs and any furnishing costs.
	Prepare documents	Many shared apartments and landlords require proof of salary, a credit report or guarantees. Prepare these documents in advance.
Successfully mastering shared apartment castings	Appear likeable and open-minded	It is important to appear likeable and open-minded at a shared apartment casting. Show interest in the flatmates and living in a shared apartment.
	Ask questions	Show that you are concerned by asking meaningful questions. Ask about daily routines, cleaning schedules or joint activities.
React quickly	Apply quickly	If the offer is attractive, you need to act quickly. Apply for the room quickly and individually.
	Follow up	After a shared apartment casting or viewing, it sometimes makes sense to follow up briefly if you don't hear back. But don't overdo it - one follow-up is enough.
Pay attention to legal aspects	Check the tenancy agreement	Read the tenancy agreement carefully before you sign it. Pay attention to notice periods, ancillary cost regulations and renovation obligations.
	Deposit and termination	Clarify the amount of the deposit and the exact conditions for repayment. Find out about your rights in the event of problems.
Don't be discouraged	Be patient	The search can take longer, especially in popular cities. Don't get discouraged and keep at it.
	Alternative solutions	Also consider alternative forms of housing, such as co-living spaces or interim rentals, if the shared apartment search doesn't work out right away.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about finding a flat share

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Note on readability and salary information: The salary ranges given refer to Germany.