Rent an apartment from a private landlord – no commission, direct contact

Looking to rent an apartment without agents or brokerage fees? You've come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll show you what to consider with private rental offers, the benefits of renting directly, and how to spot trustworthy listings.

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What does 'renting from a private landlord' mean?

When you rent from a private landlord, you communicate directly with the owner – without intermediaries. This comes with several advantages:

  • No brokerage or agent fees
  • Direct contact with the landlord
  • Faster communication and often more flexible arrangements

Legal aspects & specifics of private rental agreements

Even without a broker, all standard rental laws apply. Still, you should pay special attention to the contract and be aware of the following:

  • A written rental agreement is mandatory
  • The deposit must not exceed three months’ rent
  • Legal notice periods also apply to private rentals
  • Make sure to document the handover with a written protocol

Tip: Ask to see the energy certificate and record meter readings during the handover.

Tips & tricks for finding apartments from private landlords

  • Use filters on WG-Gesucht.de to show only commission-free listings
  • Look for trustworthy language in the description
  • Ask personal questions during first contact (e.g. about the building or lease duration)
  • Prepare for the viewing (documents, questions, etc.)
  • Trust your instincts – avoid listings that seem suspicious

Private landlords often value reliability and transparent communication.

Frequently asked questions about renting without an agent

Is renting without an agent always commission-free?

Yes. According to German law (Bestellerprinzip), fees are only allowed if you hired the agent yourself – which isn’t the case with private listings.

How do I spot a fraudulent listing?

Watch out for unrealistic rent, missing contact info, or pressure to decide quickly. Never transfer money before a viewing!

What should be included in the rental agreement?

Make sure rent, utilities, termination notice periods, and the deposit policy are clearly outlined.

Which documents should I prepare?

Pay slips, SCHUFA credit report, ID copy, and possibly a rental reference – these help you make a great first impression.

What are the benefits of private landlords?

Often more personal communication, flexible contract terms, and no additional brokerage fees.

Why WG-Gesucht.de is ideal for commission-free rentals

  • Filter for listings without commission
  • Thousands of private offers across Germany
  • Fast & direct contact with landlords
  • Secure messaging & verified profiles
  • Free to use for tenants

With WG-Gesucht.de you can find your next home quickly, directly, and commission-free – no agents needed.