What types of housing are there in Germany: what's the difference between a WG, Zwischenmiete and möbliert?

WG (Wohngemeinschaft): Several people share a flat, each with their own room. Kitchen and bathroom are shared. You either sign a contract directly with the landlord or become a subtenant (Untermieter) of the main tenant. As a subtenant, the main tenant must have the landlord's permission to sublet (Untermieterlaubnis). There are also women-only WGs.

Zwischenmiete: An owner or tenant rents out their flat temporarily while they are away for a set period (for example a few months). It can be a good start for newcomers. Have the dates written in the contract and ask whether the landlord has agreed.

Möbliert (furnished): Furnished flats are usually more expensive and often come with fixed-term contracts. Ask how much of the rent is for the furniture; in Berlin the rent cap (Mietpreisbremse) also applies to furnished flats to some extent.

Rent terms: Kaltmiete is rent without heating and service charges; Warmmiete includes everything. Service charges (Nebenkosten) are settled every year, and you either pay the difference or get money back. Housing cooperatives (Genossenschaft) offer affordable rents in exchange for a membership share.

Address registration: Whatever type of housing you live in, you must register your address (Anmeldung) within two weeks. For this you need a confirmation from the landlord or main tenant (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung); be wary of offers that won't provide it.

Watch out for scams: Never send a deposit or rent before viewing the flat and signing a contract. Very cheap ads and landlords who say «I'm abroad right now, I'll post you the keys» are usually scammers.