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Overview of the typical differences between furnished and unfurnished accommodations in Nuremberg.

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Comprehensive Guide: Furnished vs. Unfurnished Housing in Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg, located in the state of Bavaria, is a vibrant city with a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Whether you're moving to Nuremberg for work, study, or personal reasons, understanding the differences between furnished and unfurnished housing is crucial for making an informed decision. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the housing market in Nuremberg.

1. Categories of Housing in Nuremberg

Housing in Nuremberg can be broadly categorized into the following types:

Apartments (Wohnungen): The most common type of housing, ranging from studio apartments (1-Zimmer-Wohnung) to multi-bedroom units.
Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaft or WG): Popular among students and young professionals, where tenants share common areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Houses (Häuser): Detached or semi-detached houses, typically for families or those seeking more space.
Serviced Apartments: Fully furnished apartments with additional services like cleaning, ideal for short-term stays.

2. Furnished vs. Unfurnished Housing: Key Differences

Furnished Apartments

Definition: These come with essential furniture and appliances, making them move-in ready.
What’s Included:
- Basic furniture: Bed, sofa, dining table, chairs, wardrobes.
- Appliances: Refrigerator, stove, washing machine, sometimes a dishwasher.
- Kitchenware: Plates, cutlery, pots, and pans (in many cases).
- Utilities: Often included in the rent (electricity, water, internet, etc.).
Typical Costs:
- Studio/1-bedroom: €800–€1,200 per month.
- 2-bedroom: €1,200–€1,800 per month.
- Serviced apartments: €1,500–€2,500 per month (depending on location and services).
Advantages:
- Ideal for short-term stays or those who don’t want to invest in furniture.
- Convenient for expats or students who are new to the city.
Disadvantages:
- Higher rent compared to unfurnished apartments.
- Limited customization of the living space.
- May require a higher security deposit (Kaution), typically 2–3 months’ rent.

Unfurnished Apartments

Definition: These are bare apartments, often without light fixtures or kitchen appliances.
What’s Included:
- Walls, floors, and plumbing.
- Sometimes a fitted kitchen (Einbauküche), but this is not guaranteed.
- No furniture or appliances (you may need to purchase everything, including light fixtures).
Typical Costs:
- Studio/1-bedroom: €500–€800 per month.
- 2-bedroom: €800–€1,200 per month.
- 3-bedroom: €1,200–€1,800 per month.
Advantages:
- Lower rent compared to furnished apartments.
- Freedom to furnish and decorate according to your taste.
- Better for long-term stays.
Disadvantages:
- Higher upfront costs for furniture and appliances.
- Time-consuming to set up, especially if you’re new to Germany.

3. Rental Procedures in Nuremberg

Finding a Rental Property

Online Platforms:
- Immobilienscout24 (www.immobilienscout24.de)
- WG-Gesucht (www.wg-gesucht.de) – Ideal for shared apartments.
- Immowelt (www.immowelt.de)
- Airbnb or Homelike for short-term furnished rentals.
Local Agencies: Real estate agents (Immobilienmakler) can help but may charge a commission (Provision), typically 2–3 months’ rent.
University Housing: Students can apply for dormitories or shared apartments through the Studentenwerk Nürnberg.

Application Process

Documents Required:
- Proof of income (e.g., salary slips or employment contract).
- SCHUFA credit report (a credit check specific to Germany).
- Copy of your ID or passport.
- Rental history or references (if applicable).
Viewing Appointments: Schedule a viewing (Besichtigungstermin) to inspect the property.
Rental Agreement (Mietvertrag):
- Carefully review the terms, including rent, deposit, and notice period.
- Contracts are typically in German, so consider getting a translation if needed.
Security Deposit (Kaution):
- Usually 2–3 months’ cold rent (Kaltmiete).
- Deposited into a separate account and returned at the end of the lease, provided there’s no damage.

4. Local Considerations and Cultural Norms

Unfurnished Apartments: The German Standard

In Germany, "unfurnished" often means completely bare. It’s common for tenants to install their own kitchen (including cabinets, sink, and appliances) and light fixtures.
When moving out, tenants are expected to return the apartment in its original condition, which may include repainting the walls.

Furnished Apartments: Flexibility for Expats

Furnished apartments are more common in the short-term rental market and are often targeted at expats, business travelers, and students.
Be aware that furnished rentals may have stricter lease terms, such as fixed rental periods.

Utilities and Additional Costs

Cold Rent (Kaltmiete): The base rent, excluding utilities.
Warm Rent (Warmmiete): Includes utilities like heating and water but not electricity or internet.
Nebenkosten (Additional Costs): Covers building maintenance, garbage collection, and other communal expenses. Typically €2–€3 per square meter.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Germany has strong tenant protection laws. Landlords cannot evict tenants without a valid reason, and rent increases are regulated.
Tenants are responsible for minor repairs and regular maintenance of the apartment.

Cultural Norms

Punctuality is highly valued when attending viewings or meeting with landlords.
Germans take great care of their homes, so it’s important to treat the property with respect.
Recycling and waste separation are mandatory, and tenants are expected to follow local guidelines.

5. Tips for Choosing Between Furnished and Unfurnished Housing

Short-Term Stay (Less than 1 Year): Opt for a furnished apartment to save time and avoid the hassle of buying furniture.
Long-Term Stay (1 Year or More): Consider an unfurnished apartment to save on rent and customize your living space.
Budget Constraints: Unfurnished apartments are more affordable in the long run, but be prepared for higher upfront costs.
Flexibility: Furnished apartments offer more flexibility, especially if you’re unsure about your length of stay.

6. Conclusion

Choosing between furnished and unfurnished housing in Nuremberg depends on your budget, length of stay, and personal preferences. Furnished apartments are ideal for short-term stays and convenience, while unfurnished apartments are better suited for long-term residents who want to create a personalized home. By understanding the costs, procedures, and cultural norms, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth transition to life in Nuremberg.