February 17, 2025
Apartment hunting in Berlin: tips, reviews & best rental strategies (2025)
Finding an apartment in Berlin has become one of the most stressful and competitive experiences for renters. With high demand, rising rents, and landlords receiving hundreds of applications per listing, it often feels impossible to secure a home.
Many renters share similar frustrations: unanswered messages, unrealistic prices, and unreliable landlords. But is there a smarter way to navigate Berlin’s rental market? In this guide, we’ll explore:
✅ Real experiences from Berlin renters
✅ Why apartment hunting in Berlin is so difficult
✅ Smart strategies & tools to increase your chances
✅ How platforms like Waitly improve the process
If you're struggling to find an apartment in Berlin in 2025, this article is for you.
Why is Finding an Apartment in Berlin So Hard?
The Berlin rental market is known for its high competition and lack of available apartments. Here are the biggest challenges:
High demand, low supply – Berlin is growing fast, but available apartments are limited. Landlords often receive 100+ applications within hours of posting a listing.
Rising rent prices – the average rent in Berlin has increased significantly, with one-bedroom apartments costing between €1,200 - €1,800 in central districts like Mitte or Kreuzberg.
Strict rental requirements – Landlords usually require:
✔ SCHUFA report (credit check)
✔ Proof of income (last three payslips)
✔ Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung (proof of no rental debt, see template)
✔ Passport or residence permit
Landlords don't respond – It's common to send 50+ inquiries and receive zero responses.
Rental scams – Fake listings, landlords asking for money before viewings, and illegal contracts make the process even riskier.
Real experiences: What renters say about apartment hunting in Berlin
To better understand The situation in Belrins rental market, we’ve gathered real renter experiences:
1. "It took me 6 months to find a place"
Many newcomers underestimate how long it takes to secure an apartment. Without a stable job contract or strong rental history, the process is even harder.
“I moved to Berlin thinking I’d find an apartment in a month or two. I ended up crashing on friends’ couches for six months while sending over 200 inquiries. Most were never answered.”
2. "Housing portals and Facebook Groups are a nightmare"
Most people use ImmoScout24, WG-Gesucht, or Facebook housing groups, but competition is insane.
When I moved to Berlin I joined all the Berlin housing groups on Facebook, but every time a listing was posted, it got 100 comments in minutes. The competition is impossible.”
3. "Scammers are smart"
Fake landlords asking for money upfront are a major risk in Berlin’s housing market.
I almost sent €1,500 to a ‘landlord’ who claimed they were abroad and needed a deposit before sending me the keys. Luckily, I realized it was a scam in time.”
How to find an apartment in Berlin faster
Despite the challenges, some smart strategies can help speed up your apartment search.
✅ 1. Have your documents ready
Many people miss out on apartments simply because they don’t have their paperwork ready. Before applying, prepare:
SCHUFA report (credit score check)
Proof of income (last 3 payslips or work contract)
Rental history (letter from previous landlords)
Copy of your ID/residence permit
✅ 2. Expand your search beyond the city center
Yes, Mitte, Kreuzberg, and Prenzlauer Berg are trendy, but you might have better chances in:
These areas are more affordable and have fewer applicants per listing.
✅ 3. Use alternative platforms like Waitly
Instead of fighting 200+ people for one listing, consider structured rental platforms like Waitly.
How Waitly Works:
✔ Sign up for apartments that match your criteria
✔ Track your position on the waiting list
✔ Get notified when an apartment is available
Waitly user, Johanne, 28, Berlin: “With Waitly, I didn’t have to send 50+ messages every day. I signed up, waited, and got a notification when an apartment was available. So much less stress!”
Why It’s better: No spammy listings due to verification, no ghost landlords, and no frustrating competition.
✅ 4. Be flexible with move-in dates
Many apartments are available immediately. If you can move on short notice, landlords might prioritize you over others.
✅ 5. Consider short-term rentals first
If you're new to Berlin, short-term rentals (coliving spaces, Airbnbs, or serviced apartments) can buy you time while you search for a long-term lease, for example with Waitly. Plan long term!
FAQs: Common Questions About Renting in Berlin
❓ How long does it take to find an apartment in Berlin?
It can take 1–6 months, depending on your budget, location, and paperwork readiness.
❓ How much does rent cost in Berlin in 2024?
€1,200-€1,800 for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas. Cheaper options are available in outer districts.
❓ What is the best way to find an apartment in Berlin?
ImmoScout24, WG-Gesucht, Waitly, and local Facebook groups. Having all your documents ready is key.
❓ Are there scams in the Berlin housing market?
Yes! Never send money before signing a contract and seeing the apartment in person.
Berlin's rental market is tough, but not impossible
Finding an apartment in Berlin can feel overwhelming, but smart strategies can improve your chances.
Instead of wasting time sending 100+ messages, prepare your documents, explore alternative neighborhoods, and use tools like Waitly to reduce stress. Let us help you find your next home!
