6 tips for househunting in Germany

USAG Stuttgart Housing Office

1 PRIOR TO SELECTING A LOCATION

• Verify internet strength and capability options through local internet providers

• Determine availability of adequate, nearby parking

• To reduce noise, consider whether there are the following within close proximity:

• Major industrial area

• Ongoing or pending construction

• Proximity to train station, railroad, or airport

The options for off-post housing are incredibly diverse, from these city block apartments in Stuttgart- West to fully detached single-family homes in suburban areas and the countryside.

Photo by Bardia Khajenoori

2 SAFETY AND SECURITY QUESTIONS TO ASK

• Ask local security agencies, such as Military Police, Antiterrorism Officers, or G2 / S2 about security concerns within selected areas

• Conduct a terrain walk of the area, looking for signs of attempted break-ins or other safety concerns

• Does the neighborhood generally seem to be safe and well kept, or does it look run down and unsafe (check residence during daylight hours and hours of darkness)?

3 DWELLING LAYOUT CONSIDERATIONS

• Overall look and appearance; verify adequate general maintenance, such as broken windows or damaged doors

• If there is a yard, is it in good condition? Who is responsible for upkeep?

4 TEST LIGHTING INSIDE AND OUT

• Check exterior community area lighting, if applicable

• Check residence interior lighting

• Check entrance ways, hallways, walkways, parking areas, and all common area lighting

5 ITEMS OF CONSIDERATION

• Ensure the dwelling has multiple points of entry (most properties have one way in/one way out)/ exit doors to provide emergency escape alternatives

• Ensure all exterior doors have dead-bolt type or secure locks

• Ensure all doors and frames are heavy and solidly constructed

• Ask if lock cylinders can be changed and if the landlord will retain a copy

• Ensure windows can be secured from the interior

• Ensure the dwelling has fire or smoke detectors / alarms installed, and purchase fire extinguishers if not already present in the dwelling

• Fences may detertheft and add privacy

• Consult with personnel within your local housing office, security officials, and your local antiterrorism officer prior to, during and when making a final selection

• Is the property on the garrison non-referral list? If so, selection is not recommended

Courtesy photo

6 WHAT NOT TO DO

• Don’t choose a dwelling near an industrial zone, power plant, or other hazards i.e., flood zones increase the likelihood of damage.

On-post lodging, like the room pictured above at the Panzer Hotel, may serve as a temporary home for families with civilian sponsors or for whom permanent on-post housing is not immediately available. A certificate of nonavailability will be offered for off-post lodging if applicable.