Expats take note: Here's how to avoid scams when looking for an apartment.

The visa approval is within reach, the suitcases are already packed in your mind, and you're looking forward to your new life in Germany. But as soon as you start searching for suitable accommodation in major cities like Berlin or Munich, disillusionment often sets in. The German housing market is tight, and criminals are exploiting this very situation . What sounds like the perfect bargain often turns out to be a professionally orchestrated trap that can jeopardize not only your savings but also the success of your entire visa application. As a law firm specializing in immigration law, we repeatedly see clients fall victim to fraudulent schemes just before their move. In this article, we shed light on the legal pitfalls and equip you with the necessary tools to navigate the jungle of real estate listings with confidence.

The absence scam: The “Landlord Abroad” trick

One of the most common scams involves the landlord claiming to be abroad . Communication is usually smooth and friendly, but as soon as it comes to viewing the property, an obstacle is introduced: since the owner is supposedly not on-site, the keys can only be sent by mail after an advance payment of the security deposit . We strongly advise against such demands. Legally, according to § 551 of the German Civil Code (BGB) , the security deposit is only due at the start of the tenancy, and the tenant even has the right to pay it in three installments. Anyone who transfers money without ever having seen the apartment or signed a verified lease agreement will generally never see that money again. A reputable landlord will never demand payment before a legally binding contract exists and a handover has taken place, either in person or through a representative.

When mathematics fails: Too good to be true.

In cities like Munich, housing is a scarce commodity, which is directly reflected in rental prices. If you are offered a 120-square-meter apartment in the city center for a total rent of €500, alarm bells should be ringing . Such listings are merely bait to lure desperate apartment seekers into conversation. We strongly advise you to check the local rent index beforehand and compare the price per square meter with the market rates on established platforms. A price that is significantly below average is almost always an indication of attempted fraud . Remember: A rental agreement is a reciprocal contract in which performance and consideration must be in reasonable proportion; unrealistic offers are often legally classified as usury or outright deception.

Identity theft: Your data as a tool for criminals

A frequently underestimated risk when searching for an apartment is the misuse of personal documents. Scammers often ask potential tenants early on to upload sensitive documents such as their ID card, proof of income, or bank details. This information is not used for credit checks, but rather stolen to commit further fraud in your name . We therefore recommend being very careful about sharing your data. Before sending copies of your identification documents, you should always watermark them (e.g., "For apartment application with XY only") and redact any unnecessary information. Protecting your identity is essential, as misuse of your data can have far-reaching legal consequences that extend well beyond the loss of your apartment.

The furniture trap: Overpriced inventory as hidden costs

Not every scam is as obvious as a fake advertisement. Sometimes the apartment actually exists, but the landlord tries to enforce exorbitant demands for the purchase of furniture. Often, they claim that the "vintage kitchen" is worth an extra €3,000, even though it's technically outdated and barely functional. The German Economic Crimes Act (WiStG) sets clear limits here. According to current case law, a purchase agreement must not be disproportionate to the value of the items. As a rule of thumb, the price should not exceed 150% of the current market value. No one can legally force you to take over grossly overpriced furniture just to secure an apartment. Such tied sales are legally contestable.

Emotional Manipulation: The Legend of the Trustworthy Tenant

Scammers often use complex, emotional stories to build trust. They might mention deceased relatives or complicated family circumstances, claiming they are desperately seeking a "particularly trustworthy" tenant. We advise skepticism: the more detailed and emotional the backstory of an unknown landlord, the more likely it is a distraction from the hard facts. A professional tenancy is based on facts and legal frameworks, not on fictional scripts. Remain objective and don't let pity or artificially created time pressure lead you to make rash payments or sign documents.

Conclusion: Vigilance is the best legal protection.

Finding an apartment in Germany requires patience and a healthy dose of skepticism. In short, never make payments via cryptocurrencies or PayPal Friends & Family, and an in-person viewing – or at least through verified agencies – is essential. Protect your documents with watermarks and be wary of offers that sound too good to be true. As your law firm, we support you in ensuring your start in Germany rests on a solid legal foundation. A securely executed lease agreement is the basis for a smooth arrival and successful integration. Stay vigilant so that your first address in Germany becomes a place of joy and not a matter for the courts.