The German alternative to Airbnb is primarily Wimdu and Fewo-direkt, but the most popular option is Booking.com, which also offers a wide range of apartments and houses for short-term rent. However, for a more local and authentic experience, many Germans use platforms like ImmobilienScout24 or WG-Gesucht for finding apartments, though these are more commonly used for long-term rentals.
How does Wimdu work?
Wimdu is a Berlin-based company that was founded in 2011 and allows users to book apartments, houses, and rooms in over 100 countries. The platform works similarly to Airbnb, with hosts creating listings for their properties and guests searching for and booking accommodations. According to the Wimdu website, hosts can earn up to €1,500 per month by renting out their apartments. To become a host on Wimdu, users must create a profile, add their property listing, and set their rental prices. Guests can then search for properties, read reviews, and book their desired accommodations.
Is Fewo-direkt safe?
Fewo-direkt is another popular German alternative to Airbnb, with over 150,000 vacation rentals listed on the platform. To ensure safety, Fewo-direkt has a secure payment system, where the rental payment is held until the guest has checked in. This provides protection for both the host and the guest. Additionally, Fewo-direkt offers a customer service team that is available to assist with any issues that may arise during the booking process. According to the Fewo-direkt website, the platform is compliant with the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
How do I book a property on ImmobilienScout24?
ImmobilienScout24 is one of the largest real estate platforms in Germany, with over 10 million visitors per month. While it is primarily used for finding long-term rentals, it also offers a section for short-term vacation rentals. To book a property on ImmobilienScout24, users can follow these steps:
1. Go to the ImmobilienScout24 website and select the “Vacation Rentals” section.
2. Enter the desired location and travel dates in the search bar.
3. Browse through the search results and select a property that meets your needs.
4. Contact the host or property manager through the platform’s messaging system to inquire about availability and pricing.
5. If the property is available, the host will provide you with a rental agreement and payment instructions.
Regulatory Compliance
It’s worth noting that short-term rentals in Germany are subject to certain regulations, such as the German Hotel and Accommodation Tax (Beherbergungssteuer). Hosts are required to register their properties with the local authorities and pay the applicable taxes. According to the German Federal Ministry of Finance, the tax rate varies between 3% and 5% of the rental income, depending on the location.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between Wimdu and Fewo-direkt?
Wimdu and Fewo-direkt are both German alternatives to Airbnb, but they have different business models and features. Wimdu is a more international platform with listings in over 100 countries, while Fewo-direkt is focused on the German and European market.
- How do I become a host on Booking.com?
To become a host on Booking.com, you need to create a property listing and provide detailed information about your accommodation, including photos, descriptions, and pricing. You will also need to verify your identity and provide payment information.
- Is ImmobilienScout24 only for long-term rentals?
No, ImmobilienScout24 also offers a section for short-term vacation rentals. However, the selection is limited compared to other platforms like Airbnb or Wimdu, and the platform is primarily used for finding long-term rentals.
- Do I need to pay taxes on my rental income in Germany?
Yes, as a host in Germany, you are required to pay taxes on your rental income. The tax rate varies between 3% and 5% of the rental income, depending on the location, and you will need to register your property with the local authorities and obtain a tax identification number.
- Can I cancel my booking on Fewo-direkt?
Yes, you can cancel your booking on Fewo-direkt, but you may be subject to cancellation fees. The cancellation policy varies depending on the host and the property, so it’s essential to review the terms and conditions before booking.
