About Catherine
A short stop in Hamburg on the way to Australia turned into more than 30 years.
Almost Home grew from that unexpected journey, an international business career and hands-on work supporting refugees in Hamburg – since 2017.
My story
More than 30 years ago, I arrived in Hamburg for what was meant to be a short work assignment before continuing my journey to Australia. As it turned out, I never made it to Australia. I fell in love with Hamburg—and I have called it home ever since.
I went on to build an international career in trade, marketing and management, working with companies across Europe, the USA and Africa. That experience taught me how to plan complex projects, communicate clearly and keep things moving when many people and deadlines are involved.
After leaving corporate life, I joined a Hamburg charity supporting refugees. I helped families navigate German bureaucracy, organise paperwork, arrange health insurance, register with the authorities and—perhaps most importantly—find somewhere to live.
Through that work, I gained a different understanding of Hamburg: how its housing market works, how overwhelming German administration can feel to newcomers and how much difference practical support and clear communication can make.
One day, someone familiar with my work asked whether I could provide the same personal support to an international employee relocating to Hamburg. That conversation became Almost Home.
Since 2017, I have combined local knowledge, international business experience and practical relocation support to help professionals and families feel at home in Hamburg.
At a glance
Almost Home provides a structured apartment search service designed to save time, improve your position in the market and guide you through every stage of your relocation.
Catherine Bashford
What this means for you
The way I work today is shaped by two very different careers. From the corporate world, I bring structure, planning, organisation and clear communication. From refugee resettlement, I learned flexibility, practical problem-solving and the importance of treating every client as an individual with their own circumstances and challenges.
I’ve also lived in Hamburg for more than 30 years. This city isn’t simply somewhere I work—it’s my home. I know its neighbourhoods, its bureaucracy and its rental market not just professionally, but through decades of everyday life.
That combination allows me to offer something that goes beyond apartment searching. I help people understand the process, make informed decisions and navigate one of Germany’s most competitive rental markets with confidenc
Relocation isn’t always easy. There will almost certainly be moments when the process feels frustrating or uncertain. What I’ve learned over the years is that there is usually a solution—even when things initially seem impossible. I believe a calm, structured approach, honest advice and a sense of humour often achieve better results than stress ever will. The best part of my work is getting to know my clients and helping them feel at home in Hamburg.
Ready to start your move?
If you are looking for experienced, personal support with your apartment search or relocation to Hamburg, complete the short application form and tell me about your plans. I review every enquiry personally and will contact you to discuss whether Almost Home is the right fit.