Expats in Berlin: Navigating the Berlin Flat & Housing Market in 2024
Introduction
In an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are more than just buzzwords, Axel Springer is taking significant strides to embody these principles within its organizational structure. Recognizing that a diverse workforce enriches the company culture and mirrors the multifaceted society we are part of, Axel Springer is committed to fostering a recruitment process that welcomes individuals from varied backgrounds.
However, the journey doesn’t end at hiring; creating an inclusive environment is crucial for leveraging the benefits of diversity. Through target-driven programs, Axel Springer aims to address and rectify inequalities, ensuring that every employee feels valued and belongs.
In keeping with this ethos, I’ve compiled essential insights on navigating the Berlin housing market for expats joining Axel Springer Berlin in 2024, to ensure a smooth transition into the city’s vibrant life. As a team leader on the WELT app team, I had the many expat developers Axel Springer hires in mind, but the information should help non-developers as well, obviously.
Overview of Berlin
In 2024, Berlin continues to stand out as a vibrant, multicultural hub, attracting expats from around the globe. The housing market, however, poses unique challenges, especially for newcomers. This guide aims to navigate the complexities of finding a home in Berlin, focusing on the aspects most relevant to expats.
Districts of Berlin (Berliner Bezirke)
Berlin is divided into several districts, each with its own character and living conditions. From the historic allure of Mitte to the vibrant, artsy atmosphere of Kreuzberg and the upscale residential areas of Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, understanding the nuances of each district is key to finding your ideal home.
Public Traffic and Zones
Berlin’s public transport system is extensive, comprising U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), buses, and trams, divided into zones A, B, and C. Living close to this network is essential for convenient access to the city’s diverse districts and amenities.
You may also choose to commute by bike in Berlin, on either combined or dedicated bike tracks.
Wohnlagenkarte (Quality of Living Map)
The Wohnlagenkarte provides insights into the quality of living across different areas, considering factors like green spaces, noise levels, and local amenities. This tool is invaluable for expats seeking a balance between urban life and comfort.
Areas of crime in Berlin
Compared to other metropols, Berlin is a pretty safe place.
Nevertheless, crime rates vary significantly across Berlin. Some areas are known for higher incidences, particularly around certain nightlife spots and U-Bahn stations. Staying informed about these areas can help expats make safer housing choices.
Schools
For expat families, Berlin offers a range of educational options, including international schools that cater to various national curricula, but also public schools are on a very good leve.
Proximity to a good school is often a crucial factor in deciding where to live, especially since there is the Einzugsgebiet for primary schools, determining according your address, which public school is foreseen for your kids.
Public versus Private
Teachers in public schools are better paid than teachers in private school.
Schools in Berlin
Statistics about Schools
How to change to a school in Berlin
How to Find a Flat in Berlin
Online Portals
Websites like ImmobilienScout24 or Immowelt are primary resources for apartment listings, offering a wide range of options from unfurnished to fully furnished flats.
Company Communication Channels
Expats moving for work may find housing options through their company’s internal communication channels like Teams or Slack, where colleagues often share rental opportunities.
Wohngenossenschaften (Housing Cooperatives)
Wohngenossenschaften, or housing cooperatives, offer an alternative path to finding a home in Berlin. These cooperatives are community-oriented, focusing on providing affordable and sustainable living spaces for their members. By joining a cooperative, members often gain access to apartments with lower rents compared to the private market, albeit with an initial investment or membership fee. These entities prioritize long-term stability and community welfare over profit, making them an attractive option for expats seeking a sense of belonging and mutual support in their new city. However, securing a spot in a Wohngenossenschaft can be competitive, requiring patience and sometimes a personal connection within the cooperative. Despite these challenges, the benefits of community support, shared amenities, and participatory management make housing cooperatives a worthwhile option for many expats.
Vitamin B (Networking)
In Berlin, personal connections can significantly ease the housing search. Networking within expat communities and local contacts often leads to private rental opportunities not listed on public platforms.
Legal Aspects of Renting in Berlin
Mietpreisbremse and Milieuschutz
Berlin’s rent control measures (Mietpreisbremse) and social environment protection (Milieuschutz) are designed to prevent displacement and keep rents affordable in certain areas.
You can check about the prices to be expected on street and house number level, with the Mietpreisspiegel.
Unfurnished, permanent Rent
Opting for an unfurnished, permanent rental agreement offers stability. Berlin’s regulations allow for minimal furnishing requirements, so tenants may need to invest in basic amenities.
Don’t expect a full kitchen, but rather a minimal set of very basic sink and stove (Wohnungsaufsichtsgesetz: § 4 Anordnung zur Herstellung der Mindestanforderungen), but especially if you are planning to stay for longer, this was your best long-term option.
Furnished Rents
While more flexible, furnished rentals are partially regulated, which can affect availability and price. Since those flats are regulated partially only, expect extreme high prices and double check any paragraph about temporary letting, which was legal only for specific reasons.
Temporary Letting
Legal only under specific, in contract specified conditions, temporary letting is generally advised against for those seeking long-term stability.
Conclusion
Navigating the Berlin housing market in 2024 requires a blend of research, preparation, and local insights. By understanding the city’s districts, leveraging online and personal resources, and navigating the legal landscape, expats can find a place to call home in this dynamic city.
