If you are moving to Austria, finding a flat is certainly one of the first things you might be worried about.
A quick internet search will show that the Austrian rental market is difficult. The major cities have high rents, and the apartment search can get competitive.
However, you can really increase your chances of finding the perfect place by getting all your documents prepared beforehand.
Some of the best places are rented almost on a first-come-first-served basis. As a result, it is not uncommon for people to start negotiations right at the viewing.
One common tip for those looking for a place is to bring some documents and papers prepared with you to hand them to the broker if you like the place so that you can speed up the process - and be seen as a serious candidate.
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What documents can a landowner ask me for?
If you want to be prepared for any interviews or negotiations regarding a new place, you should keep a copy of a picture ID handy.
Usually, a passport would be the best ID for foreigners. Still, if you have EU-issued identification or even an Austrian driver's license, that would work.
If you are from outside of the European Union, you might be asked for proof that you have a right of residence in Austria.
Besides that, landowners will ask you for proof of income. There are several ways you could provide this proof, depending on your current situation.
Usually, property owners will ask for a three-month payment slip to prove steady employment. However, if you are just moving into the country, you could also provide them with a work contract or even your most recent tax return documentation.
Agencies and private renters are always looking to reduce risk exposure, so if you are new in the country or if you are self-employed, gather all documents you can to prove you will be able to pay rent.
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In some cases, you can ask for a guarantor to cosign the deal with you - so proof of the person's income would be an essential document to have.
You can also use personal income, such as family donations and inheritance, as proof of income, as long as you can show a payment slip and the donor's documentation and statement of donation.
Another possibility to reassure the flat owner is to offer to pay a larger security deposit. Usually, renters in Austria need to pay around three months' rent as a security deposit that they would get when leaving the apartment - if certain conditions are met.
Some people accept a larger deposit (for example, six months) for cases of "higher risk" renters, usually the self-employed or someone who recently moved to Austria. You can negotiate to receive the "extra" deposit back after one year.
Another document you need to have handy is your current proof of residence. In Austria, this is called the Meldezettel.
Your bank details will also be required, and usually, a copy of your bank card is enough.
Finally, there are a few forms that a landowner or real estate agent might ask you to fill out and send them. Usually, these are renter's forms clarifying if you have pets, intend to work from your apartment and similar things. There is also a "data protection" form in conformance with EU regulations.
READ ALSO: Renting in Austria: The vocab you need to understand apartment ads
Another common practice is to send an "income calculator" with all your income versus your planned monthly expenses. Some renters also ask for character references, which could be from an Austrian friend or your previous landlord or landlady, but this is quite rare.
These may seem like a lot, but getting ready before will save a lot of time and headache. Also, since competition for the best places is high, having your papers prepared could be the difference between getting the flat or not.
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