To be successful in your search for a flat, you need to meet three criteria: 1. You need to apply for lots of properties, as demand exceeds supply 2. You need to apply quickly, as landlords always process the fastest applicants first and invite them to viewings 3. You need a complete and attractive application pack so that landlords can make a decision quickly For further tips on how to maximise your chances when looking for a flat:

Those who apply for flats the quickest and most frequently are the quickest to succeed in their search. That’s easier said than done. There’s no single formula for success, but there are a few ways to drastically improve your chances: 1. You should enable your push notifications and stay on the ball. As soon as a new flat appears that matches your criteria, apply straight away! Whether it’s for HOMEBOY messages or push notifications from property portals. You can also set up search alerts on property portals. Unfortunately, these aren’t always comprehensive, or they send you offers with a significant delay, meaning hundreds of others have already applied before you. The surest way to receive all property listings from every portal in real time is with HOMEBOY. 2. Set up a profile on the property platforms and have all your documents ready digitally in advance. If your dream flat suddenly becomes available, you don’t want to have to start with a registration process. Because by the time you’ve finished that, your application will already be too late. So: always be ready to pull out your file! 3. A polite, concise cover letter setting out the facts (occupation, income, move-in date). If possible, you should offer a flexible viewing slot. Show your genuine interest in the property and give the landlord the impression that you’re not just an acceptable tenant, but a really good fit for the flat. For example, mention 1–2 features of the flat that you particularly like. This signals to the landlord that you have really looked into the listing and are showing genuine interest. You can now also save your application letter in the HOMEBOY app. That way, you’ll always have it to hand when a new attractive listing comes in that you want to apply for quickly. 4. The viewing: In our experience, a friendly, almost cheerful demeanour, where you express your enthusiasm for the flat, is the surest way to secure a tenancy. If there are several applicants whose application documents are in order, landlords often decide based on gut feeling and likeability. So don’t give them any reason not to like you or to find it difficult to assess you. For further tips on how to maximise your chances when looking for a flat:

Make sure that you collect all documents in full. One missing document can cost you the offer. Which documents you should always have in your application folder: 1. Letter of application, 2. Current SCHUFA information 3. Certificate of no rent arrears from previous landlord, 4. Proof of salary (usually the last 3) - ideally as one PDF.

As a rule of thumb, HOMEBOY (and most landlords) recommends spending no more than ⅓ of your net income on rent. So if you earn €2100 net, you shouldn't spend more than €700 on your rent.