Exchange in Germany: Best Places to Find Accommodation
Finding a place to live in Germany can seem like a gigantic challenge when you're still in Brazil, looking through your computer screen. But calm down - it's not as complicated as it sounds! With the right platforms and some practical tips, you can secure your accommodation before you even set foot on German soil.
Housing is one of the first concerns of those who decide study and work in Germany, and for good reason. After all, having your own (or shared) corner makes all the difference in adapting to the new life. Let's uncomplicate this together and show you exactly where to look, what to expect, and how to stand out from the competition.
Why is the search for housing in Germany unique?
Before we dive into the specific sites, it's important to understand how the German real estate market works. Unlike in Brazil, where you can visit an apartment and sign a contract on the same day, there things follow a more relaxed and organized pace.
Most German cities face high demand for housing, especially the 5 best cities to live in Germany in 2025. Munich, Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart attract thousands of students and professionals annually. So starting to search in advance is not a luxury - it's a necessity.
Most common accommodation types:
- WG (Wohngemeinschaft): Apartments shared with other students
- Studentenwohnheim: Student housing offered by universities
- Own apartment: For those who prefer more privacy
- Single room: In family homes or homes
WG-gesucht: the king of shared housing
If you are going to live in Germany as a student, you will probably hear about WG-gesucht before I even got there. It's the most popular site for finding rooms in shared flats - those famous WGs that are almost a German cultural institution.
Why it works so well:
- Super intuitive interface, even for those who are starting out with German
- Detailed filters by price, location, room size
- Integrated messaging system for direct contact with owners
- Thousands of ads updated daily
Hint: At WG-gesucht, you're not just looking for a room — you're looking for people to mingle with. So, personalize your message for each ad. Tell me a little about yourself, your hobbies, whether you are organized, whether you like to cook together. Germans place a high value on personality compatibility.
The interesting thing is that you will often be invited to a “WG-casting” - basically an informal interview where current residents choose who will share the space with them. It may seem strange at first, but it makes total sense when you think that these people share a kitchen, bathroom, and common area.
ImmobilienScout24: the complete platform
For those looking for more variety or want a complete apartment just for themselves, ImmobilienScout24 It is the German equivalent of the Brazilian Real Estate ZAP. It is the largest real estate platform in the country and offers everything from simple rooms to luxurious apartments.
Key advantages:
- Germany's largest real estate database
- Includes furnished and unfurnished apartments
- Email alert system when new properties appear
- Detailed information about the neighborhood and neighborhood
How to navigate as a beginner: The site is in German, but don't be intimidated. Use Google Translate on the entire page if necessary. The main filters you need to know:
- Kaltmiete: Rent not including expenses
- Warm me: Rent including expenses (water, heating)
- Rooms: Number of rooms
- Qm: Square meters
A German peculiarity: when they say “3 Zimmer”, they are not counting bathroom and kitchen. A 3-room apartment has a living room, two bedrooms, plus a separate kitchen and bathroom.
Studenten-WG: focused on university life
O Studenten-WG it is practically a WG-gesucht aimed exclusively at students. If you're coming to do University abroad, this site could be a gold mine.
Important differentials:
- Student-only ads for students
- Generally more affordable prices
- More relaxed and international environment
- It often includes basic furniture
The great thing about Studenten-WG is that you will find many other exchange students in the same situation. It's common to see advertisements in English or simplified German, which makes initial communication easier. In addition, as everyone is in the adaptation phase, the environment is usually more collaborative.
Facebook groups and online communities: the human side of the search
Here's a secret that many exchange students discover too late: some of the best housing opportunities are not on traditional sites, but in Facebook groups and specific online communities.
Essential groups to follow:
- “Housing/WG Berlin” (or replace with your city)
- “German-Brazilian Exchange”
- “Students [your city] - Housing”
- “International Students Germany”
Why these groups work:
- More direct and personal contact
- Possibility to view the person's profile before
- Often the owners are other Brazilians or exchange students
- More flexible trading
Practical strategies to stand out in the search
Now that you know the best sites, let's talk about how to use these platforms wisely. The German accommodation market is competitive, especially in larger cities.
Get ready before you start looking for:
- Have your documents ready: Copy of passport, proof of enrollment, bank statements
- Prepare a personal presentation: A paragraph about yourself in German and English
- Set your budget: Include not only the rent but also the deposit (usually 2-3 months of rent)
Realistic timeline for finding housing:
- 3-4 months before: Start researching and understanding the prices
- 2 months before: Intensify the search and send the first messages
- 1 month before: Confirm virtual visits and close contracts
Actual housing cost in major German cities
You can't talk about accommodation without talking about money, right? Prices vary drastically depending on the city and the type of housing you choose.
Monthly averages by city (rooms in WG):
- Munich: €600-900
- Frankfurt: €500-750
- Hamburg: €450-650
- Berlin: €400-600
- Leipzig: €300-450
Remember that these values are for rooms in shared apartments. An entire apartment can cost double or triple. That's why, especially for those starting out, WG is not only a cost-effective option, but also an incredible way to make friends and practice the language.
One thing that many Brazilians are surprised at first: in Germany it is common to pay a deposit (Kaution) equivalent to 2-3 months' rent. This money is “stuck” throughout your stay and is returned when you leave, discounting any damages.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Unfortunately, as anywhere in the world, there are people who take advantage of those who are arriving. Here are the top scams to avoid:
Warning signs:
- Prices well below the market average
- Owner who refuses to video call
- Request payment before you see the place
- Ads with very professional photos (may be from other locations)
Remember: Never, ever, under any circumstances, transfer money before you are absolutely certain of the legitimacy of the advertisement. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
A common tactic of scammers is to post ads with tempting prices and say that they are “traveling” and need the deposit to “reserve” the apartment. Legitimate? No.
Apps that make life easier in Germany
In addition to the main sites, there are some apps that can make your search more efficient. It's worth taking a look at 10 essential apps for exchange students in Germany, where you can find not only housing apps, but also tools that will help you adapt.
Specific apps for housing:
- WG-gesucht App: Mobile version of the main site
- ImmoScout24 App: To search anywhere
- Spotahome: International platform with options in Germany
- Nestpick: Focused on temporary apartments
Required documentation and contract process
When you finally find your ideal accommodation, it's time to get down to the red tape. And look, the Germans take red tape very seriously - but that's good! It means that everything is transparent and regulated.
Documents you generally need:
- Personal ausweis/Passport: Identity document
- Einkommensnachweis: Proof of income (can be from parents)
- Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung: Certificate that you have never had problems with rent (a bit complicated for those arriving, but sometimes they accept a declaration)
- SCHUFA: German credit analysis (also complicated for those arriving)
Don't despair if you don't have all these documents. Many landlords, especially those used to international students, are flexible. Sometimes a well-written cover letter and proof that you have financial resources is sufficient.
Be Easy
Finding the perfect accommodation in Germany doesn't have to be a source of endless stress. With the right platforms, adequate preparation and realistic expectations, you can indeed find a place that becomes your home away from home. Na Be Easy, we understand that every detail of your international experience matters - including having a cozy place to return to after a day of exploring your new German city. Our team is here to help you every step of the way, from choosing the ideal city to practical tips on how to excel in the housing search. Contact us and together we will make your German dream a reality!
