Your contract is signed, the project is set, the flight is booked, and now “only” the apartment is missing. For those moving from abroad, this is often the most challenging part. The German rental market operates differently, many processes are unfamiliar, and viewing apartments from a distance is virtually impossible.
Furnished temporary housing meets exactly this need: you arrive, immediately have a real home, and can take your time to get oriented. For many expats and professionals, this is the most important step to settling in both professionally and personally in a new city.
The Advantages of Furnished Rentals
Renting an unfurnished apartment from abroad is, unfortunately, nearly impossible. Many landlords want to meet you in person, viewings take place on-site, and document requirements are strict. On top of that, in Germany, “unfurnished” usually means literally empty. No light fixtures, no curtains, and – more often than not – no kitchen.
With a furnished temporary apartment, the process is a lot smoother. When you rent through Zeitwohnen Rhein Ruhr, your first day usually looks like this: grab your suitcases from the taxi, open the door, walk in, and unpack. A bed, sofa, kitchen, dishes, WiFi, and more are typically already there (you can see the specific details in each listing). Arrive in peace, start the next morning with a cup of coffee, and then head out to explore the city.
The “Wohnungsgeberbest??tigung” Hurdle
To register with the local residents’ registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt), you need a Wohnungsgeberbest??tigung (Confirmation of Residence) from your landlord. Without this confirmation, you cannot get a registered address, and without a registered address, everything becomes complicated: your tax ID, bank account, cell phone contract, and sometimes even your employment contract.
Many short-term accommodations, such as vacation rentals or private sublets, do not offer this certificate, either because the landlords aren’t aware of the legal requirement or because they are offering the apartment “under the radar.”
At Zeitwohnen Rhein Ruhr, the Wohnungsgeberbest??tigung is standard. You will receive all the necessary documents from your landlord to ensure your start with the authorities in Cologne, Bonn, or Essen goes smoothly.
Do Expats Need a SCHUFA (Credit Check)?
Almost all landlords of unfurnished apartments in Germany request a SCHUFA report, which is used to determine creditworthiness. For people who have just arrived from abroad, this is nearly impossible to provide, as a SCHUFA entry is only created once you already have active contracts in Germany.
At Zeitwohnen Rhein Ruhr, we understand this dilemma. That???s why we offer other ways to credibly prove your financial standing. In many cases, one of the following options works:
- Employment contract or employer confirmation: A solid contract with a reputable company is a very strong argument.
- Rent paid in advance: Some landlords accept a few months’ rent in advance as security.
- Higher security deposit or current bank statements: These show that the rent is financially covered.
- Corporate lease: Often, the employer signs the lease directly and provides the apartment to the employee.
Our team understands the concerns of landlords and the unique situation of international tenants. We usually find a way that makes both sides feel secure. Ask our team for advice, they will probably find a solution!
How Do I Find a Reputable Agency for Furnished Living?
Trust is always important when you rent an apartment, but it’s an even bigger factor when you are moving abroad.
In this day and age, there are many large websites that list apartments like hotel rooms. But housing is a personal matter, especially when you???re starting fresh in a foreign country. This is a crucial difference between anonymous booking platforms and a local agency like Zeitwohnen Rhein Ruhr.
Verified Listings: We know all our landlords and their apartments personally. At Zeitwohnen Rhein Ruhr, every apartment is individually verified; landlords cannot simply post their own listings online.
Regional Expertise: Our team is based locally. We know the best places to go jogging along the Rhine or which neighborhood is best for your commute.
Human Support: If you have questions or problems, you won’t end up on hold in a call center. You will speak with people who truly know the area. You have a dedicated contact person who finds the best solution for your specific needs.
??? 0 Service Fee for Tenants: Despite the personalized consulting, our service is completely free of charge for you as a tenant.
Digital Efficiency: Personal service doesn’t mean “old school.” The rental process can be handled entirely digitally and very quickly. With Zeitwohnen Rhein Ruhr, you can conveniently book your furnished apartment online, even from abroad.
Discover Current Listings or Request a Personalized Offer
Through the combination of flexibility, legal security, and personal support, Zeitwohnen offers the ideal solution for professionals and expats. We make sure you feel at home from the very first night.
Explore our current listings here and inquire about your dream furnished apartment today! Or fill out our inquiry form here to receive a personalized selection of furnished apartments that fit your needs. We look forward to supporting your start in Cologne, Bonn, or Essen!
