Which apartment to buy in Germany for rental: what to look at besides the price
Investing in German real estate is considered one of the safest in Europe. But to make an apartment truly profitable, you need to consider more than just the purchase price. Let’s look at the key factors: from analyzing the Mietspiegel to choosing the right city and proper rental management.
Mietspiegel and real demand: how to evaluate rent
Before buying a rental apartment, check:
- Mietspiegel – the official reference for rental rates in a specific city or district, published by the municipality. It shows ranges per m² depending on building year, condition, and location.
- Real market – often higher than Mietspiegel, especially in large cities. Always check portals (Immobilienscout24, Immonet, Immowelt) and listings from Hausverwaltungen.
- Demand – universities, office hubs, infrastructure, migration flows. High demand = low vacancy risk.
? Tip: Don’t rely only on Mietspiegel – check real advertised rents for similar flats in the area.
Which cities are promising for rentals?
Top locations with strong demand:
- Berlin – one of Europe’s biggest rental markets, demand exceeds supply. But rent cap debates and regulation risks.
- Munich – highest rents, limited supply. Suited for investors with large capital.
- Frankfurt – financial hub, constant influx of expats.
- Hamburg – universities + port economy = stable rental flow.
Promising B-class cities:
Leipzig, Dresden – population growth, IT sector, affordable prices.
Nuremberg, Augsburg, Magdeburg – industry, universities, rising rental demand.
? Trend: More investors are moving into B-class cities, where yields are higher and competition lower.
Tenant screening: how to reduce risks
A main fear: “bad” tenants. Eviction is complex in Germany. Check before signing:
- SCHUFA credit report
- 3 months of payslips
- Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung (proof of no rental debts)
- Deposit (up to 3 months rent, separate account)
- iuiugnhieor
Hausverwaltung: the key to stress-free renting
If you don’t have time, hire a reliable Hausverwaltung:
- Tenant selection and checks
- Rent collection
- Nebenkostenabrechnung (service charge settlement)
- Repairs & maintenance
- Communication with tenants & authorities
Cost: €20–30/month per flat – often cheaper than vacancies or conflicts.
Conclusion
When choosing an apartment to rent out in Germany, don’t just look at the price. Key factors:
- Real rent levels and demand
- City prospects (A or B class)
- Careful tenant screening
- Professional Hausverwaltung
✅ With the right strategy, you can achieve stable income and reliably grow your capital.
