The Community Office (CO) is working in close co-operation with several estate agencies throughout Münster. We can offer a variety of houses and apartments.

•  Arranging appointments for inspections
•  Accompanied viewings (vehicle is available)
•  Negotiations with landlords/estate agents
•  Translation of rental agreements

Just call/mail to: Ms Kiesow, Secretary Community Office

A few issues you have to keep in mind, when setting out to find a house or an apartment on your own:

1. If you want two bedrooms with a living room and dining room, you will actually be looking for a four-room–home in Germany. On the other hand kitchen and bathrooms are not included in the number of rooms.

2. Furnished apartments are rare and will cost a great deal more than unfurnished ones.

3. Unfurnished apartment means completely unfurnished. You will often have to buy everything. E.g. stoves, refrigerators, kitchen cabinets, curtains, lights, perhaps even the proverbial kitchen sink.

4. The monthly payment to the landlord is divided in two parts: the rent and the additional costs 'Nebenkosten', including fees such as property taxes, trash collection fee, water costs etc.

Furthermore you generally pay separately for your electricity and gas. These items are rarely included in the additional costs.

Costs:
Average price approximately 8 - 10 €/m²
Brokerage of 2,23 month net rents
Security deposit of 2-3 month net rents

For detailed information concerning possible tax-exemption and how to deal with it, please contact Mr Küper, Manager Tax Affairs.