Are you looking for off-post housing? The USAG K-Town Housing Office offers these tips for service members who are looking for off-post housing. Do: • Search the IWWFES Housing Referral Network (IHRN) to find commission-free off-post housing. • Visit Aspen, the Housing Office off-post contractor. The contractor will provide guidance and assistance with translations and provides transportation to view up to three homes. • Check the housing non-referral list and make sure that the prospective landlord is not listed. • Have your rental contract reviewed at the housing office before you sign it. • Ensure that you have a good sponsor. A good sponsor is crucial upon arrival to a new duty station. Also, units need to provide time for service members to look for off post housing. • If in doubt on any housing matter, contact the Housing Office. It is staffed with a customer-friendly, knowledgeable staff to assist service members every step of the way. • Check with the Housing Office every week or so to determine your position on the Housing Waiting List. • Sponsors need to communicate to incoming members not to have high expectations. It’s hard to find free-standing large homes with a large yard; bedrooms are typically smaller than by U.S. standards. Expect stairs in most places unless you happen to live in an apartment with an elevator. Do not: • Inform a landlord or agent how much housing allowance you receive. • Verbally agree to rent a property (Verbal agreements are binding in Germany) . • Rent a home that is still under renovation or construction. Ensure repairs are complete prior to signing a contract. • Engage a real estate agent who will require a fee without first obtaining approval from the Housing Division Chief. • Forget to aggressively pursue housing (off post) to maintain your eligibility for Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA). You are authorized up to 60 days but will be required to occupy a month-to-month rental if no serious prospects at the 45 day point.
Posted on: Fri, 02 Aug 2013 00:30:48 +0000
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