Finding Temporary Housing Before Moving
Overview
When you first arrive in Berlin, you will likely need temporary housing (a few weeks to a few months) while you search for a permanent apartment. This is completely normal — almost every expat goes through this. The key term to know is Zwischenmiete (interim rental).
Types of Temporary Housing
| Type | Duration | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zwischenmiete (sublet) | 1-6 months | €500-900/month | Best value. Often furnished. Ask if Anmeldung is allowed. |
| Furnished apartment | 1-12 months | €800-1,500/month | Professional services, more reliable |
| Hostel / long-stay | Days to weeks | €25-50/night | Emergency option only |
| Hotel / Airbnb | Days to weeks | €50-120/night | Expensive but no commitment. Note: Airbnb stays over 90 days are illegal in Berlin without permit. |
| Co-living spaces | 1+ months | €600-1,200/month | Furnished, community, flexible contracts |
Where to Search
Best Platforms
- WG-Gesucht — #1 for Zwischenmiete and WG rooms. Filter by "befristet" (temporary). Write personal messages in German if possible.
- ImmobilienScout24 — Filter for "möbliert" (furnished) and short-term
- Kleinanzeigen (formerly eBay Kleinanzeigen) — Search "Zwischenmiete Berlin"
- HousingAnywhere — Designed for expats, Anmeldung-friendly listings
- Wunderflats — Furnished apartments verified for Anmeldung
- Spotahome — Book without visiting, verified listings
Facebook Groups
- Filipino in Berlin — Ask fellow Filipinos for leads
- Filipinos in Germany — Broader network
- "Berlin Apartments" and "Berlin WG" groups — high volume, act fast
Important: Anmeldung
You need an Anmeldung (address registration) to open a bank account, get health insurance, and more. Not all temporary housing allows this.
- Always ask if the landlord will provide a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation) for Anmeldung
- Wunderflats and HousingAnywhere explicitly mark Anmeldung-friendly listings
- Airbnb and hotels generally do NOT allow Anmeldung
Scam Warning Signs
Berlin's housing market attracts scammers targeting desperate newcomers. Watch out for:
- 🚩 Landlord is "abroad" and wants to mail you keys after payment
- 🚩 Asked to pay deposit before viewing the apartment
- 🚩 Price is suspiciously low for the location and size
- 🚩 Requests payment via Western Union, crypto, or gift cards
- 🚩 Can't provide a proper rental contract (Mietvertrag)
- 🚩 No landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) available
Rule: Never pay money before seeing the apartment in person or through a verified platform with payment protection.
Tips for Filipinos
- Start searching 2-3 weeks before you arrive. The market moves fast.
- Prepare a short introduction about yourself — landlords want to know who you are
- Having a German-speaking friend help with messages significantly improves response rates
- Budget €800-1,200/month for your temporary stay including utilities
- Consider areas outside the Ring (Neukölln, Wedding, Lichtenberg) for better prices
- Join the Filipino in Berlin Facebook group early — kababayans often know of available rooms
Useful Links
- All About Berlin — Find a Flat — Comprehensive guide updated regularly
- Settle in Berlin — Practical guides for newcomers