Accommodation in Austria

Expats will find that, although their options for accommodation in Austria are limited in variety, they are plentiful in number. Vienna is characterised by older apartments in the classical Austrian style. Further afield, more housing options present themselves, such as modern luxury apartments and standalone houses.

Types of accommodation in Austria

The type of property available to expats moving to Austria will depend largely on where they choose to settle. The majority of new arrivals tend to be found in Vienna. Space is limited in Vienna and most of the accommodation options will be studios or apartments. Houses and cottages are more likely found in the suburbs or rural parts of Austria rather than in city centres. Regardless of the type of accommodation, the standard is generally high, with indoor heating being a standard feature.

Expats are advised that most shared-housing options will be at least partially furnished, while whole apartments are usually unfurnished. If opting for an unfurnished option, shipping furniture to Austria (especially from within the EU) is a viable option. There are plenty of excellent furniture stores around (such as IKEA) where expats will find everything they need.

Finding accommodation in Austria

Renting property in Austria is a reasonably straightforward process, as the vast majority of apartments are rented through real-estate agents. Expats should be aware that there are better seasons in which to hunt for accommodation. The beginning of the academic year (September) is a particularly poor time, as the influx of students from all over Europe stiffens the competition.

Unless expats speak fluent German, navigating property websites or classifieds sections of newspapers will be difficult. Most new arrivals therefore opt to save time by hiring an estate agent. Not only do agents help expats overcome the language barrier, they also have an intimate knowledge of the local property market, which is helpful in finding a property that meets an individual's requirements. They charge the equivalent of up to two months' rent for their services.

Renting accommodation in Austria

Renting accommodation in Austria is a fairly straightforward process for expats. Generally, the hardest part is finding a real-estate agent, after which it tends to be smooth sailing.

Making an application

Once an expat has found an apartment or property they would like to rent, they need to send their proof of identity, Austrian visa and proof of employment or student ID to their real estate agent. After this a lease will be sent through that should be signed.

Deposits

Up to three months' worth of rent will be required as a deposit to cover any potential damage to the unit. It is important to keep the unit and any provided appliances undamaged to guarantee that the deposit is returned in full. 

Signing a lease

Expats should read their leases carefully and, if necessary, have it translated. Leases usually run for at least three years – people living in Vienna tend not to move often because of the expenses involved in finding and securing a lease. 

Leases can be terminated early after a certain period of time, but a written letter detailing the desire to vacate is needed. Leases generally require that notice is given three months before leaving.

Utilities

Expats should be advised that, under normal circumstances, they will be responsible for all their utility bills; however, it is possible – and probably desirable – for expats to pay a flat monthly fee to their estate agent that covers their rent and all their utility bills (including broadband internet).