Finding the Right Place to Live

German living standards are high, even though living expenses are moderate. Renting or purchasing a home is considerably less expensive than in many other industrialized countries. Were that not enough, utilities are reliable and competitively priced.

Like anywhere else in the world, prices depend on the accommodation location and the facilities provided. The price level for rented and purchased real estate in German cities is lower than in many other western European cities. Quality accommodation is in high demand in industrial areas.

The individual municipality websites are always a good source of information about the living conditions in a particular town or city. The websites run by the individual states provide information on the surrounding area. Most cities have websites to facilitate completion of the paperwork required for the authorities from the comfort of your home.

Extensive information on the property market can be found in the local papers, which usually publish a large number of accommodation small ads in their weekend editions. Brokers typically charge a commission of approximately two months rent (before expenses) for rented accommodation, and up to six percent (depending on the federal state purchased in) plus value added tax (VAT) if the accommodation is purchased.

Moving to a German town requires registration at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt). Registration must be performed within one week upon moving into a house or apartment. This applies to all changes of addresses throughout the period of residency in Germany. Registration is free of charge and only requires a short visit to the local registration office.

To register an ID card or passport, proof of the new residence (in the form of a rental or purchase agreement) is necessary. The different municipalities usually have websites that provide information on which office is responsible. The web address is usually listed as www.name-of-municipality.de (for example www.berlin.de).