Hey there homeseeker! Struggling to get those much-wanted house viewing invitations? Don't fret! As your Homeboy, we've got your back! Check out our suggestions below..
What should I write to my future landlord?
First impressions count, and your initial communication with your potential landlord can set the tone for your entire relationship. So, what should you say in that all-important first message? Keep it simple, respectful, and informative. Briefly introduce yourself, specify your interest in the property, and why you believe you'd make a stellar tenant. It wouldn't hurt to compliment them on their property. Everyone loves flattery, right?
How do I make my future landlord pick me?
"But how do I make the landlord pick me?" you ask. Well, dear reader, that's the million-dollar question. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to position yourself as the tenant who causes zero hassle. Be proactive - provide references if you have them, even before being asked. Explain your stable income situation and your plans for the future. Show them that you are reliable, that you respect their property, and that you plan to rent long-term (plans can always change ☺️).
How do I introduce myself to my new landlord?
Now, let’s talk introductions. When you get the chance to meet your prospective landlord in person, remember that you're not only inspecting the house - they're inspecting you too! Put your best foot forward, be genuine, friendly, and casually highlight what makes you a dream tenant. Are you quiet and clean? Do you always pay your rent on time? These are the golden tidbits that landlords love to hear. Everything you can back up with proof helps.
What should I wear for the viewing?
We've all heard the saying "Dress for the job you want". Well, in your case, it's "Look like the tenant your landlord wants". Dress appropriately (business casual won't go amiss), be punctual, and show genuine enthusiasm for the property. Landlords are humans too, and they will often go for tenants who show an appreciation for their property. In case you're going to meet your potentially future roomies, bringing something tasty could make you stand out. It depends on who you're meeting though, so feel the room and don't over do it.
Which documents do German landlords ask for?
Landlords in Germany mainly ask for six documents from their future tenants. Best would be to prepare these documents in one PDF, so checking your application becomes easy. This will make a great first impression! Not sure how to combine PDF files? No problemo, this online tool does exactly that, free of charge! It’s highly recommended, sometimes even mandatory, to share these documents with your future landlord from the start. So as your homeboy, we’d advise you to do so from the get go!
Prepare the following documents to share with future landlords:
A copy of your ID or passport - Proof that it’s actually you or you shall not pass!
Proof of no previous rental debt - Ask your current landlord for this document called “Mietkostenfreiheitsbescheinigung”. If this is your first rental in Germany, ask your current or previous landlord to write something similar to a reference letter, highlighting that you have no open payments and paid rent in a timely manner.
Proof of income - Show me the money! Proof that you are able to pay the rent. Prepare documentation that shows your salary for the last three months. A job contract, payslips or issued invoices will do the trick. The rule of thumb is, that your net income should be three times the rental price.
Bank statements - It’s getting personal, but hard to evade. Bank statements assure landlords you are able to pay the rent. If others pay the rent for you, proof this on paper. This is optional as long as you provide sufficient proof of income
Credit History (aka “SCHUFA Selbstauskunft”) - You can only request this document when you officially register as a German resident. So if you haven’t lived in Germany before, mention this to your future landlord, so he or she understands why you’re not including a SCHUFA in your application.
Payment guarantee from someone else - This document will only be required when you cannot prove you can afford the rent, through proof of income or bank statements. Also called "Mietbürgschaft", this is usually provided by parents that support their kiddo's.
In the end, it all boils down to this: be genuine, be proactive and build trust. Show them why you're the tenant they've been searching for, and soon enough, you'll be unlocking the door to your dream home in Germany.
Happy house hunting! You’ve got this!