Finding an apartment in Stuttgart can be challenging, but with the right strategy and a bit of patience, you can find the perfect home. Here are 12 important steps to make your apartment search successful:
Before you start searching, consider whatâs important to you: the size of the apartment, number of rooms, location, proximity to public transportation, shopping facilities, and schools. These criteria will help you search for suitable offers more effectively.
Calculate how much you can spend monthly on rent and utilities. Keep in mind that in Stuttgart, rental prices can vary greatly depending on the district. Average rental prices in Stuttgart:
A set budget helps you narrow down your search and only consider apartments in your price range.
Apartment portals offer a variety of listings. Here are some of the most important ones:
Use the filter functions to sort the offers according to your criteria. Regularly checking the portals increases your chances of responding quickly to new listings.
In addition to online portals, itâs worth looking at the Saturday editions of local newspapers like Stuttgarter Zeitung and Stuttgarter Nachrichten. Often, youâll find listings there that arenât published online.
Inform friends, family, and colleagues about your apartment search. Often, youâll learn about available apartments through this channel before theyâre officially advertised. A good network can provide you with valuable tips and contacts.
Many property management companies donât advertise publicly. Send them a friendly letter with your apartment wishes. Often, they have internal waiting lists that you can be added to.
Be prepared and bring the necessary documents such as proof of income, Schufa credit report, and a tenant self-disclosure form. This shows the landlord that youâre a serious applicant.
Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. Scammers often demand advance payments without allowing you to view the apartment. Never give money before youâve seen the apartment and an official rental contract is signed.
A well-prepared application folder, consisting of a cover letter, proof of income, Schufa credit report, and references, can give you an advantage over other interested parties.
Read the rental agreement thoroughly and pay attention to clauses on notice periods, security deposits, and additional costs. Take your time and, if in doubt, seek legal advice before signing.
If your income is below a certain threshold, you might be eligible for social housing. Inquire at the Stuttgart Housing Office about the requirements and apply for a WBS if applicable.
Facebook groups, forums, and other social networks are valuable resources for apartment seekers. Join local groups and post about your search to find more offers and get tips from other apartment hunters.
With these 12 steps, youâre well-equipped to find a suitable apartment in Stuttgart. Good luck with your search!
