For those moving to The Netherlands, finding an abode to call your own may seem daunting, particularly considering the lack of rentals and soaring prices. But it’s not impossible, provided you understand the country’s housing market and the options available, as well as the budget commitments.
This comprehensive guide details everything first-timers need to know when it comes to renting a property in the Netherlands, from social housing to current prices and what “unfurnished” really means.
Social housing vs private rentals
When navigating the Dutch rental market, there are two options available: social housing and private rentals. Social housing is for Dutch citizens who qualify (based on income) and rents are capped to ensure rental properties remain affordable.
As a foreigner, social housing is off-limits and the private rental market is the only way to go. Rental prices here aren’t capped and they can be incredibly steep in major cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Be aware that subletting social housing is illegal in the Netherlands, so don’t get lured in by rental prices that seem too good to be true.
Furnished vs partly furnished vs unfurnished
The level of furnishing in Dutch apartments can come as a surprise to foreigners. Generally speaking, you have three options: furnished (gemeubileerd), partly furnished (gestoffeerd), or unfurnished (kaal).
Going unfurnished is the cheapest route but this means no appliances, no furniture, and sometimes not even flooring! It really is a blank canvas. This is great for those who are on a tight budget and want to customize the space from scratch.
Partly furnished offers a bit more to work with, usually flooring and a fridge. Rather than having to buy everything you need, it may be possible to negotiate a deal with the previous tenant. This is a win-win situation as you don’t have the stress of sourcing furnishings on arrival and they don’t have the hassle of a big and expensive move.
Furnished apartments in the Netherlands tend to be rare and expensive but they are ready to move in with everything you need. Just remember to leave the property exactly as you found it, unless you want to pay damages.
Budget
If you’re thinking about moving to the Netherlands, it’s important to be aware that rental prices aren’t cheap, particularly in the country’s five biggest cities where private rentals have been on the rise due to a scarcity of options. A two-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam or The Hague is between 2,000 and 2,500 euros a month while the same in Eindhoven is between 1,000 and 1,500 per month. In Rotterdam and Utrecht, renters can expect to pay around 1,500 per month.
It’s worth keeping in mind that rental prices tend to decrease the further outside the city centers you go, so it’s possible to find more affordable properties in the outer suburbs. Neighboring towns also offer good alternatives while still being within commuting distance of the big cities via reliable public transport networks.
Tenancy agreements
Before signing a tenancy agreement in The Netherlands, it’s important to understand exactly what you are committing to. Take the time to read through it carefully and scrutinize all of the fine print.
Find out exactly what is covered in the rent, from utilities to internet, so there aren’t any unexpected surprises after moving in. Check how long the tenancy is for and the required notice if you need to move out early. The tenancy agreement should also state if there is a security deposit payable, with this usually being equal to at least one month’s rent.
Don’t be shy about questioning anything that’s unclear upfront. A few awkward moments could save you from major rental remorse after signing.
Search online
To save time and agent fees when searching for a property to rent in The Netherlands, visit a rental website like Rentola. It showcases hundreds of properties to rent across the country, all of which are listed by private landlords and verified for your peace of mind. Prices start from as little as 155 euros per month.
After registering as a user, simply plug in any must-haves like location, price range, and number of bedrooms, then browse the tailored list of rentals that is generated. Before committing to rent an apartment in the Netherlands, you can click through high-quality images to get an idea of the space and ask any questions you may have of the landlord to ensure you get approved.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy canal-side studio in Amsterdam or a family-friendly flat in Delft, Rentola has you covered. It’s a trustworthy site for connecting with property owners, particularly for those yet to arrive in the country. As a first-timer trying to negotiate the intricacies of the Dutch rental market, it makes things simple, with hundreds of options at your fingertips.