Housing in Germany

We got a lead on a home for rent which is in Sindelfingen, a couple blocks from The Marriott where we are staying. We went to look at the home which has been rented by an active duty Marine from Mark's shop. They are leaving May 14 and the home will be available on or before June 1. The great thing is that it is about 10 minutes to both bases, Patch and Panzer. The home is 4 bedrooms with a lot of space ~ 3 floors. We had to interview with the Landlord and they approved us (our kids were on their best behavior, lucky us). The lease has to be approved by housing and then we can make plans to move in. It has a beautiful garden (with a small patch of grass, but mostly plants and amazing flowers). There is a balcony all around the main floor and a terrace for our table and grill. We can entertain there and the kids will have lots of room. There are schools with playgrounds down the street and the Marketplace is within 15 minutes walk. 

The Marriott is nice but gets old quickly. Housing is difficult to find here. When you go to the Housing Office, they say "we have no houses available." When you ask when one will be available, they say "We don't know." NICE! We were very lucky and found a nice gentleman in housing to help us (is he the only nice person there?). Never underestimate good karma!

The decision to live on or off post is a personal one, one we have discussed over and over. There are clearly advantages to each. Mark and I decided we would live off base if we could find a 4 bedroom that was nice and clean, in a good neighborhood close to town, large enough for us, and near work and schools. Once you find that, I think you have to jump on it. So we are... Will post photos as soon as it is finalized!! Very exciting!!