🏠 How to Rent an Apartment in Aachen as an Expat

Relocating to Aachen and searching for a place to live? Whether you’re arriving from abroad or settling in after moving, navigating the Aachen rental market can be challenging for expats. This guide walks you through where and how to search for a flat, what documents to prepare, and how to improve your chances in a competitive market, all tailored specifically for expats in Aachen.

🔎 Where to Begin Your Apartment Search in Aachen

Your first step is to look online, where most apartments are listed. The earlier you begin your search, the better. Aachen is a popular university and tech city, so demand is often high, especially around semesters or job onboarding periods.

Start With These Trusted Platforms:

Immobilienscout24.de
Immowelt.de
Immonet.de
WG-Gesucht.de
Kleinanzeigen.de (formerly eBay Kleinanzeigen)
Meinestadt.de
HousingAnywhere
Wunderflats
HC24.de

💡 Tip: On platforms like Immobilienscout24, consider upgrading to a premium account to get early access to new listings.

🎯 Refining Your Search Criteria in Aachen

To filter out the best options and avoid wasting time:

Use platform filters for price, location, number of rooms, and amenities like balconies, furnished/unfurnished status, or elevator access.
If you’re moving with a pet, use the “pet allowed” filter, but if you have a cat, don’t automatically skip listings marked “no pets.” Many landlords use this filter to avoid dogs. If invited for a viewing, you can politely mention your cat in person.
Set up email alerts for your preferred criteria, so you’re notified instantly when something new is posted.

✨ Tips for Standing Out in the Aachen Rental Market

Landlords in Germany tend to favor tenants who:

Have a steady income or job contract
Hold a valid residence permit
Provide a SCHUFA credit report
Submit a complete application file

To strengthen your application:

Submit a Bürgschaft (guarantor letter) if you’re new to Germany and lack local income or credit history.

When applying online, use the message/description field wisely. Write a short introduction about yourself, explain why you’re interested in that specific apartment, and mention what you liked about it. Personal, respectful messages can stand out among dozens of generic applications.

📝 What Should Be On Your To-Do List Before Looking for an Apartment?

Prepare your documents in advance so you can apply as soon as you find a place you like. Typical documents required:

✅ Copy of your passport or residence permit
✅ Proof of income (employment contract, payslips, or freelance invoice history)
✅ Bank account details (SEPA-compatible)
✅ SCHUFA report (Germany’s standard credit check)
✅ Mieterselbstauskunft (renter’s self-disclosure form)
✅ References (optional but helpful)

Also, be financially prepared with:

💶 A deposit (typically three months’ cold rent)
💶 First month’s rent

📊 Understanding Rent Pricing in Aachen

Aachen’s rent levels are moderate compared to other German cities, but can still fluctuate by district.

Use tools like:

Mietspiegel Aachen to benchmark rent prices per square meter
Immobilienscout24 rent map with public transport overlays to assess accessibility
Remember: many current listings exceed the Mietspiegel by 20–30%, depending on location and condition

💡 Terms to Know:

Kaltmiete: Base rent without utilities
Warmmiete: Rent including estimated monthly utilities (Nebenkosten)

🛏️ Need a Fast Solution? Try Poha House Aachen

If you’re arriving in Aachen and want flexible, move-in-ready housing, Poha House Aachen is a great option.

🌟 Stylish, fully furnished apartments with co-living perks
💻 Rent includes Wi-Fi, cleaning, and utilities
🧾 No hidden fees, ideal for expats who want quick, modern housing

This is a great temporary or even long-term option for anyone still waiting for their Anmeldung or just getting started.

🧭 Need Help Finding a Place? ABOUT Aachen Can Help

At ABOUT Aachen, we offer a dedicated 🏡 Home Search service to support your relocation.

Finding Your Perfect Place

✅ Strong network: Direct access to landlords and exclusive off-market accommodations
✅ High success rate: We secure apartments quickly, even in a competitive market
✅ Full service: From search and viewings to lease signing for short or long-term housing

👉 Want help with your housing search?

Fill out our 🏡 Housing Request Form and tell us what you need. Whether you’re a single renter, a company, or a group, we’re here to help you find the perfect short-term or long-term accommodation.

Disclaimer:
This guide is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or housing advice. ABOUT Aachen is not a landlord or housing provider. Always verify listings and contracts independently.