House hunting in Germany: Tips for expats & moving to Germany | KOCH Moving Logistics
Real estate market: Finding accommodation in Germany - tips for expats and emigrants
Moving to Germany brings with it many challenges - finding accommodation in particular can be complicated. The German real estate market is characterized by high tenant demand, strict tenancy regulations and formal application procedures. KOCH Moving Logistics is not only a reliable partner for your move in Germany, but also offers you valuable tips for finding the right apartment.
Germany, land of tenants: why the majority of Germans rent
Germany is a country of tenants: Over 50% of the population lives in rented accommodation - one of the highest rates in Europe. This is partly due to strict home financing rules and a well-regulated tenancy law that protects tenants. Open-ended tenancy agreements are the norm, and protection against dismissal and rent controls ensure stability on the housing market. Moving to Germany therefore often means renting for the time being - whether in a city apartment or a house in the countryside.
Apartment viewings: The “application” for expats
An international move to Germany brings with it a number of special features - especially when looking for accommodation. Unlike in many other countries, it is not enough to simply show interest in an apartment. Many landlords expect a complete application portfolio:
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Proof of salary for the last three months
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SCHUFA information (credit check)
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Certificate of no rent arrears from the previous landlord
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If applicable, a self-disclosure with personal information
This can be a challenge for expats who are new to Germany and do not yet have a SCHUFA history. Alternatives are deposit insurance or employer guarantees. KOCH Moving Logistics not only supports you in the smooth transportation of your household goods, but also gives you valuable advice on finding accommodation after your move to Germany.
Deposit system & rent control: what you should know
When moving house in Germany, it is common for tenants to pay a deposit - usually of up to three net rents. This is held in a separate account and refunded at the end of the tenancy. In addition, the rent freeze in tight housing markets ensures that rents cannot rise indefinitely. Anyone looking for an apartment should check local rent indices to identify fair offers.
Rental prices in Germany: What you should consider when looking for a home
Rental prices in Germany can vary greatly depending on the region. In large cities such as Munich, Hamburg or Frankfurt, prices are significantly higher than in more rural areas. It is important for emigrants and expats to find out in advance about the average rental costs in the desired region so that they can better plan their move to Germany. The following average rental prices per square meter are a good guide:
City / Region |
Average rent (per m²) |
Rental price range (per m²) |
---|---|---|
Berlin |
12,00 € |
8,50 € – 16,00 € |
Munich |
18,00 € |
12,00 € – 25,00 € |
Hamburg |
14,00 € |
10,00 € – 20,00 € |
Frankfurt am Main |
15,50 € |
11,00 € – 22,00 € |
Cologne |
13,50 € |
9,50 € – 18,00 € |
Leipzig |
9,50 € |
6,50 € – 13,00 € |
Düsseldorf |
14,50 € |
10,50 € – 20,00 € |
Stuttgart |
15,00 € |
10,00 € – 21,00 € |
Rental prices are particularly high in major cities, which is why it is important to start looking for accommodation early and set a realistic budget. If you are relocating and arriving internationally, the price differences for expats may come as a surprise. Pay attention to local rent tables and check offers carefully to avoid unexpected costs.
Moving to Germany? KOCH Moving Logistics is at your side!
Whether you are moving to Germany from abroad or moving within the country - KOCH Moving Logistics offers you tailor-made solutions for your move in Germany. From professional transportation services to support with storage and customs clearance for an international move - we are at your side with experience and expertise.
Are you planning your move to Germany? Contact us now for a non-binding quote and start stress-free in your new home!

Our removal service Germany includes the following services:
- Export packaging of furniture
- Packing work complete
- Provision of packaging for overseas shipments
- Furniture dismantling
- Creation of a loading list with a number for each item
- Complete customs clearance export
- Container loading at your premises or pre-collection to our warehouse - depending on the situation
- Transportation from home/warehouse to port
- Sea freight from port to port
- Complete customs clearance import
- Transportation from port to home
- Unpacking the furniture
- Furniture assembly
- Disposal of packaging materials on the day of unloading
- Unpacking of the boxes on request - will be charged separately according to expenditure
- Terminal handling fees at the destination
- Return of the empty container to the port/terminal
You can book one of our all-round carefree packages for a stress-free move or take advantage of individual removal services. In addition to the removal services already mentioned, we also offer special services and additional services for removals of all kinds. Just ask us and together we will quickly find the optimal solution for any removal challenge, no matter how big or small. Send us an inquiry and we will prepare an individual offer for you.


Your relaxed move overseas
As a German company with over 120 years of experience, we know the special features that need to be considered when moving and ensure that your move goes quickly and smoothly.
Our moving company provides you with state-of-the-art equipment and high-quality packaging material to protect your valuables and furniture in the best possible way during transportation.
As one of the most successful moving companies in Germany, we offer you a first-class service at competitive prices. We understand that every move is unique and that's why we offer customized solutions tailored to your individual needs. Come and see us, Koch Moving Logistics, our movers and our services for yourself - and you will soon be one of our many satisfied regular customers.
Arrange a visit with one of our customer advisors.
Arrange an appointment with one of our customer advisors. We will be happy to visit you and provide you with a detailed quote for your move to Germany that fits. If you need advice or have any questions, please contact us in Osnabrueck on the following telephone number 0 541 – 121 68 50. We look forward to helping you!
Make an express request now!
Simply fill out our inquiry form and you will receive a non-binding offer for your move. Our competent consultants will visit you on site or plan the move with you by phone.
Your contact for international moves
Christian Braunschweig
