Struggling to find an apartment in Germany? Rising rents and a shortage of affordable homes are turning the search into a serious challenge. Families, students and newcomers face fierce competition, repeated rejections and fewer affordable options.
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Central banks bought the gold dip. Did you?
From 2002 to 2010, central banks sold a net 134 million ounces of gold. Since then they have bought all of it back, and another 111 million ounces on top.
In the second quarter of 2026, they added 289 tonnes while gold fell 14%. Falling prices used to scare official buyers off. Now they buy the dip.
Our research team's free report, Central Banks Bought the Gold Dip. Did You?, shows who is buying, what they are selling to pay for it, and why the team expects the buying to continue.
Why is it happening?
Housing shortage: There aren't enough affordable apartments to meet demand.
High construction costs: Expensive materials, labour and financing slow down new projects.
Rising rents: Cities such as Munich, Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt remain particularly expensive.
Limited social housing: Many people face long waiting lists for subsidised homes.
Practical strategies to find an apartment
Prepare your documents: Keep your SCHUFA report, payslips, employment contract and ID ready.
Set alerts: Use ImmobilienScout24, Immonet and Kleinanzeigen to receive new listings quickly.
Apply immediately: Contact landlords as soon as a suitable property appears.
Expand your search: Check nearby towns with good public transport connections.
Consider social housing: Ask your local housing office whether you qualify for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS).
Avoid scams: Never transfer a deposit before viewing the property and verifying the landlord.
The key: Be prepared, respond quickly and don't limit your search to the city centre.