Frankfurt

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Rental Housing

Information about renting apartments or houses in Frankfurt, including lease agreements and tenant responsibilities.

Sections

1. Types of Rental Housing in Frankfurt

Frankfurt offers a variety of rental housing options to suit different needs and budgets. Here are the main types:

  • Apartments (Wohnungen):

    • Most common type of housing in Frankfurt.
    • Can range from studio apartments (1-Zimmer-Wohnung) to multi-bedroom apartments.
    • Often located in multi-story buildings.

  • Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaft or WG):

    • Popular among students and young professionals.
    • You rent a room in a shared apartment and share common areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

  • Houses (Hรคuser):

    • Detached or semi-detached houses are available, but they are less common and more expensive, especially in central areas.

  • Furnished Apartments:

    • Fully furnished and equipped apartments, ideal for short-term stays or expats who donโ€™t want to invest in furniture.

  • Serviced Apartments:

    • High-end, fully furnished apartments with additional services like cleaning and concierge. These are more expensive and cater to business travelers.

2. Average Rental Costs in Frankfurt

Rental prices in Frankfurt are among the highest in Germany due to its status as a financial hub. Prices vary depending on the type of property, location, and size.

  • Studio/1-bedroom apartment:

    • โ‚ฌ900โ€“โ‚ฌ1,500 per month in central areas.
    • โ‚ฌ700โ€“โ‚ฌ1,200 per month in outer districts.

  • 2-bedroom apartment:

    • โ‚ฌ1,500โ€“โ‚ฌ2,500 per month in central areas.
    • โ‚ฌ1,200โ€“โ‚ฌ1,800 per month in outer districts.

  • Shared room in a WG:

    • โ‚ฌ400โ€“โ‚ฌ800 per month, depending on location and amenities.

  • Houses:

    • โ‚ฌ2,500+ per month, depending on size and location.

  • Additional Costs (Nebenkosten):

    • Rent in Germany is often listed as "Kaltmiete" (cold rent), which excludes utilities.
    • Expect to pay an additional โ‚ฌ150โ€“โ‚ฌ300 per month for utilities (heating, water, electricity, internet).

3. The Process of Finding and Securing a Rental Property

Finding a rental property in Frankfurt can be competitive, so itโ€™s important to be prepared. Hereโ€™s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Search for Properties

  • Online Platforms:

    • ImmobilienScout24 (most popular)
    • WG-Gesucht (for shared apartments)
    • Immowelt
    • eBay Kleinanzeigen (be cautious of scams)
    • HousingAnywhere (for expats and students)

  • Real Estate Agents (Makler):

    • Agents can help you find properties, but they charge a fee (usually 2โ€“3 monthsโ€™ rent).

  • Company Housing Portals:

    • Some employers offer housing assistance for expats.

Step 2: Visit Properties

  • Schedule viewings as soon as possible; properties in Frankfurt are rented out quickly.
  • Be punctual and professional during viewings.

Step 3: Submit an Application

  • If youโ€™re interested in a property, submit your application immediately. Landlords often receive multiple applications.

Step 4: Sign the Lease (Mietvertrag)

  • Once your application is approved, youโ€™ll sign a rental contract. Make sure to read it carefully, especially clauses about deposit, notice period, and maintenance responsibilities.

4. Required Documents

Landlords in Frankfurt typically require the following documents:

  1. Proof of Income (Einkommensnachweis):

    • Recent payslips (last 3 months) or a work contract.
    • If self-employed, provide tax returns or bank statements.

  2. SCHUFA Report:

    • A credit report showing your financial reliability. You can request this online or at a Postbank branch.

  3. Copy of ID/Passport:

    • For identification purposes.

  4. Tenant Reference (Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung):

    • A letter from your previous landlord confirming you have no outstanding rent payments.

  5. Completed Application Form:

    • Provided by the landlord or real estate agent.

  6. Proof of Residency (if applicable):

    • If youโ€™re already living in Germany, provide your registration certificate (Anmeldung).

5. Local Regulations

  • Deposit (Kaution):

    • Landlords can request a security deposit of up to 3 monthsโ€™ cold rent. This is refundable at the end of the lease if thereโ€™s no damage to the property.

  • Notice Period:

    • Standard notice period is 3 months for tenants.

  • Rent Increases:

    • Rent increases are regulated and must comply with local laws. Landlords cannot increase rent arbitrarily.

  • Subletting:

    • Subletting requires the landlordโ€™s written permission.

  • Registration (Anmeldung):

    • Once you move in, you must register your address at the local Bรผrgeramt (citizenโ€™s office) within 14 days.

6. Neighborhoods in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is divided into several districts, each with its own character and price range. Here are some popular neighborhoods:

  • Innenstadt (City Center):

    • Expensive but close to business districts, shopping, and cultural attractions.
    • Ideal for professionals working in the financial sector.

  • Sachsenhausen:

    • Known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and apple wine taverns.
    • Popular among expats and families.

  • Bornheim:

    • A trendy area with a mix of young professionals and families.
    • Known for its cafes, bars, and the Berger StraรŸe shopping street.

  • Nordend:

    • A quiet, green area with beautiful architecture.
    • Popular among families and professionals.

  • Bockenheim:

    • Close to Goethe University and popular with students and academics.
    • More affordable than central areas.

  • Westend:

    • An upscale neighborhood with luxury apartments and proximity to the financial district.

  • Gallus and Ostend:

    • Up-and-coming areas with more affordable rents.
    • Good public transport connections.

7. Public Transportation Access

Frankfurt has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to commute from most neighborhoods.

  • S-Bahn and U-Bahn:

    • Rapid transit trains and subways connect the city and surrounding areas.

  • Trams and Buses:

    • Cover areas not served by trains.

  • Monthly Pass:

    • A monthly public transport pass costs around โ‚ฌ90โ€“โ‚ฌ100.

Living near an S-Bahn or U-Bahn station is highly recommended for convenience.

8. Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Punctuality:

    • Be on time for viewings and appointments. Germans value punctuality.

  • Cleanliness:

    • Keep the property clean and well-maintained. Landlords expect tenants to return the property in good condition.

  • Recycling:

    • Recycling is mandatory in Germany. Familiarize yourself with the local waste separation system.

  • Pets:

    • If you have pets, check with the landlord. Some properties have restrictions on pets.

  • Language Barrier:

    • Many landlords and agents speak German. If you donโ€™t speak German, consider hiring a translator or asking a German-speaking friend for help.

9. Tips for Navigating the Rental Market

  • Act Quickly:

    • The rental market in Frankfurt is competitive. Be prepared to make decisions quickly.

  • Be Prepared:

    • Have all your documents ready before starting your search.

  • Negotiate:

    • While rare, you can sometimes negotiate rent or terms, especially for long-term leases.

  • Avoid Scams:

    • Be cautious of listings that seem too good to be true. Never pay money upfront without seeing the property and signing a contract.

  • Join Expat Groups:

    • Facebook groups and expat forums can be helpful for finding housing leads and advice.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to find and secure rental housing in Frankfurt. Let me know if you need further assistance!