Finding the perfect apartment in a German-speaking country can be a daunting task if you’re not familiar with the language. To help you navigate the housing market, we’ve compiled a list of essential German phrases and vocabulary that will make apartment hunting a little less overwhelming. Knowing these will not only enhance your communication with potential landlords but also make sure that you fully understand what you’re getting into before you sign that lease.
Die Wohnungssuche translates to “the apartment search.” This term is what you’ll often encounter when you’re looking for housing options.
Ich bin mit der Wohnungssuche in Berlin beschäftigt.
Der Mietvertrag means “the rental contract” or “lease.” It is the formal agreement between you and the landlord.
Können wir den Mietvertrag durchgehen, bevor ich ihn unterschreibe?
Die Kaution refers to “the security deposit.” This is a sum that’s usually paid upfront and will be returned to you after the lease ends, provided the apartment is in good condition.
Wie hoch ist die Kaution für diese Wohnung?
Die Kaltmiete is “the base rent,” which does not include additional costs like heating, water, or electricity.
Die Kaltmiete der Wohnung beträgt 700 Euro.
Die Warmmiete stands for “the total rent,” which includes the base rent plus the additional costs.
Die Warmmiete ist etwas höher, da sie die Nebenkosten deckt.
Die Nebenkosten are “the additional costs” or “utilities,” which may include water, heating, garbage collection, and sometimes even internet and cable TV.
Sind die Nebenkosten in der Miete enthalten?
Der Makler means “the real estate agent.” This person can assist you in finding an apartment, though they usually charge a fee for their services.
Ich habe morgen einen Termin mit dem Makler, um ein paar Wohnungen anzusehen.
Der Besichtigungstermin is “the viewing appointment.” This is when you get to see the apartment in person.
Wann haben Sie Zeit für einen Besichtigungstermin?
Die Einbauküche means “the built-in kitchen.” This term indicates that the kitchen comes with cabinets, appliances, and sometimes even utensils, fully integrated into the apartment.
Verfügt die Wohnung über eine Einbauküche?
Die Zentralheizung stands for “central heating,” which is a common feature in many German apartments.
Ich bevorzuge eine Wohnung mit Zentralheizung für die kalten Wintermonate.
Der Aufzug or der Fahrstuhl translates to “the elevator.” This is an important feature if you’re looking at apartments in taller buildings.
Gibt es in dem Gebäude einen Aufzug?
Möbliert means “furnished.” This describes an apartment that comes with furniture.
Ich suche eine möblierte Wohnung, damit ich nicht alles selbst kaufen muss.
Unmöbliert translates to “unfurnished.” This apartment would require you to bring or buy your own furniture.
Kann ich die Wohnung auch unmöbliert mieten?
Die Lage refers to “the location” of the apartment, which can be a significant factor in your decision-making process.
Die Lage der Wohnung ist perfekt, direkt im Stadtzentrum und nah an der U-Bahn.
Die Wohnfläche is “the living space” measured in square meters, which tells you how large the apartment is.
Wie groß ist die Wohnfläche der Wohnung?
Der Balkon means “the balcony.” This could be an essential feature for those who appreciate outdoor space.
Hat die Wohnung einen Balkon mit Aussicht?
Der Untermietvertrag refers to “the sublease contract,” which you might come across if you’re renting from someone who is temporarily away.
Kann ich Ihren Untermietvertrag sehen, bevor wir weitermachen?
Using these phrases and understanding the vocabulary will give you a significant advantage in the German housing market. Make sure to practice them and be prepared with questions for your landlord or real estate agent. Much success or, as they say in German, “Viel Erfolg” on your apartment hunting journey!
