If you think learning German grammar is hard, try finding a flat in Berlin or Munich.
For the Bangladeshi community (“Probashi”), the housing market is the biggest boss battle. We often face rejected applications, ghosting, and the dreaded phrase: “Sorry, the flat is already gone.”
Here is the honest, authentic guide to winning the key to your own Basha.
1. The “Schufa” is Your ID Card Many Bangladeshis apply without a SCHUFA (Credit Score) report. This is an instant rejection.
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The Fix: Pay the €30 for the official “Schufa Bonitätsauskunft” immediately. Attach it to every email. It proves you are debt-free.
2. The “Bewerbungsmappe” (Application Portfolio) Germans love paperwork. Don’t just send a message saying “Is this available?” You need to send a full PDF Portfolio containing:
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Passport Copy
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Visa/Residence Permit
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Last 3 Salary Slips
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Schufa Report
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Pro Tip: Add a “Cover Letter” with a smiling photo of you (and your family). Introduce yourself: “We are a quiet family, I work as an Engineer…” This human connection breaks the bias.
3. The “Deshi Network” is Faster than ImmoScout By the time a flat appears on ImmoScout24, 500 people have already applied.
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The Secret: The best flats are passed from Deshi to Deshi. Join the local BSA (Student Association) groups or “Bangladeshis in [City]” Facebook groups. Look for posts about “Nachmieter gesucht” (Next tenant wanted).
4. Beware of the “Cooking Smell” Bias Let’s be honest. Some landlords worry about the smell of spices.
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The Strategy: When viewing a flat, dress sharply (office wear). Show them you are a professional. If asked, assure them you ventilate (Lüften) regularly. Breaking stereotypes is part of the hunt.
Verdict Finding a home takes patience (and hundreds of emails). But don’t give up. Keep your documents ready, use your community network, and answer the phone instantly!
