As an expat, she needed to secure financing. After a few rejections from traditional banks, she used a broker, similar to the experience mentioned by Hypofriend, which helped her find a lender comfortable with her residency status.
After a stressful three-month process, the apartment was hers. She now enjoys high ceilings, wooden floors, and a "Kiez" (neighborhood) she loves, with the security of her own home. Key Tips for Buying in Berlin (2026) buy apartment in berlin germany
Elena focused on Moabit and Wedding, finding that central areas like Prenzlauer Berg were out of her price range. She used platforms like Engel & Völkers and Invest-AB to find listings. As an expat, she needed to secure financing
After five years of renting in Neukölln, Elena decided it was time to buy. She was tired of rising rents and wanted a place to truly call her own. She now enjoys high ceilings, wooden floors, and
She hired a translator for the Notartermin (notary appointment), as the contract was in German. She paid roughly 10–12% in additional costs (property transfer tax, notary, and agent fees).