Moving to Berlin is exciting and demanding at the same time. The city attracts thousands of new residents every year, from Germany and from all over the world. At the same time, the Berlin housing market is challenging: high demand, tight supply, a lot of bureaucracy. Those who arrive well prepared have a noticeably more relaxed start.
Step 1: Accommodation for the first few weeks
The first mistake many Berlin newcomers make: they start looking for a long-term apartment while still in their old city. This rarely works well. Viewing a Berlin apartment from Hamburg or Munich is barely possible, and without a viewing you won't get a good apartment. The better strategy: first book a furnished temporary apartment, come to Berlin, and then start the search for long-term accommodation from there.
A wide range of furnished apartments for the start can be found at Farawayhome Berlin. Bookable from one month, all-inclusive, no commission.
Step 2: Finding the right district
Berlin is large and each district has a different character. The most important questions: Where is the workplace? How much hustle and bustle do I want in the neighbourhood? What is my budget? Anyone who has answered these questions has a good starting point for choosing a district.
District |
For whom |
Price (furnished studio) |
Mitte |
Short-term stays, business |
from 1,400 EUR |
Prenzlauer Berg |
Families, longer stays |
from 1,350 EUR |
Charlottenburg |
Professionals, peace and quiet |
from 1,300 EUR |
Friedrichshain |
Younger people, expats |
from 1,150 EUR |
Kreuzberg |
Creatives, urban style |
from 1,200 EUR |
Neukölln |
Budget-conscious |
from 1,100 EUR |
Step 3: Registration and authorities
After moving in comes registration with the Einwohnermeldeamt (residents' registration office). Anyone staying longer than three months is required to do so. For this you need a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation) from your landlord. Registration is the key to everything else: bank account, tax ID, health insurance.
Step 4: Building everyday life in Berlin
Berlin is international and easy to navigate in English, but the bureaucracy is in German. Anyone who wants to get through authorities quickly needs either German language skills or bilingual support. For everyday life itself, though, shopping, restaurants, leisure, you can get by well in English.
Conclusion
A move to Berlin works best in two phases: first a temporary apartment and arrival, then the long-term apartment search. Anyone who plans the first phase well will find flexible options at Wohnungen auf Zeit in Berlin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I quickly find an apartment in Berlin?
Fastest through furnished temporary apartments. Bookable within a few days, no SCHUFA required, all-inclusive.
2. Which district is suitable for starting out in Berlin?
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are popular among younger people and expats. Charlottenburg and Prenzlauer Berg are quieter and good for families and professionals.
3. How long does apartment hunting take in Berlin?
For a classic rental apartment, often two to four months. With furnished temporary apartments, you are housed within a few days.
4. What is the most important thing when moving to Berlin?
First book a temporary apartment, then arrive and search from there. At the same time, plan for registration with the Einwohnermeldeamt.
5. Are there apartments in Berlin without a long preparation time?
Yes, furnished temporary apartments are often bookable and ready to move into within a few days.
Guide: Expat Guide Berlin