Accommodation Netherlands

Long-term rental

You can rent housing for a long term in the Netherlands through several channels:

 

- Real estate agencies: The most reliable way to find housing, especially if you are new to the country. Agencies help with selecting housing, verifying the contract, and handling all necessary formalities. Note that agency services can cost up to one month's rent.

 

- Online platforms: Sites like Pararius and Funda allow you to search for apartments directly from owners or through agencies. On these platforms, you can find both furnished and unfurnished housing.

 

- Social housing: If your income is below a certain level, you can apply for social housing. This process may take several years due to long waiting lists, especially in major cities.

 

- Private landlords: You can rent housing directly from the owner, bypassing agencies. In this case, it is important to conclude an official rental contract to protect your rights.

 

Short-term rental

If you need housing for a short term, consider the following options:

 

- Serviced apartments: These are fully equipped apartments with hotel services, which can be rented for a period from several weeks to several months. Such offers can be found on sites like IamExpat and Corporate Housing Factory. These apartments often offer amenities such as gyms, restaurants, and cleaning services.

 

- Airbnb, Booking, and similar services: Short-term rental platforms provide an opportunity to rent accommodation for a few days or weeks. This can be convenient if you are temporarily in the Netherlands.

 

Documents

When renting housing in the Netherlands, you may need:

 

- Passport or other identification documents.

- Proof of income (bank statements or a contract with your employer).

- Social Security Number (BSN).

In the Netherlands, a rental or purchase contract is a mandatory and important document for both tenants and property buyers. This contract plays a crucial role in defining the rights and obligations of both parties and serves as a legal basis for living in rented or purchased housing:

 

Protection of both parties' rights: The rental contract specifies the terms of the lease, such as the amount of rent, lease term, maintenance obligations, and usage rules. This helps prevent potential disputes between the landlord and tenant. In case of purchase, the contract specifies the rights to property ownership.

 

Legal protection: Having a written contract is necessary for defending your rights in case of a conflict. For example, in disputable situations, you can turn to a court or a special arbitration body, if it concerns renting, to resolve disputes about rent or housing maintenance conditions.

 

Regulation of rent and lease terms: In the Netherlands, there are strict rules regarding rental prices and price increases, especially in the case of social housing. The rental contract should contain information about the maximum rent, frequency of increases, and conditions for lease renewal.

 

Documents for tax and legal purposes: To receive tax benefits or arrange rental subsidies, you will also need to provide a copy of the rental or purchase contract.

 

 

The rental agreement in the Netherlands is often also required for confirming your residence address in various situations, including opening a bank account, contacting immigration services, and other purposes.

 

Other services and purposes

- Taxation: When filing tax returns or applying for subsidies, such as a rental subsidy, you will also need a rental contract.

- Health insurance: When registering for health insurance, you may need proof of residence, which can be verified with a rental contract.

- Enrolling children in school: If you plan to enroll a child in school, you will need to provide evidence of your residence in a certain area, which can be confirmed by a rental contract.

Landlords in the Netherlands can be quite selective when choosing tenants, especially in the competitive rental market, which is particularly relevant in large cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. Here are the main criteria they consider when selecting a tenant:

 

Financial stability

Landlords typically prefer tenants with a proven stable income. They usually require that the tenant's income be at least 3-4 times the monthly rent. Bank statements, copies of employment contracts, or letters from employers may be needed to confirm this.

 

Credit history

Some landlords or agencies may request a check on the tenant's credit history to ensure there are no outstanding debts or other financial issues. This check may include an assessment of payment discipline and the presence of past debts.

 

Documents and legal status

Landlords require documents such as a passport and a social security number (BSN), as well as proof of legal status in the Netherlands. This is especially important for foreign citizens.

 

Previous references

References from previous landlords can also play a role, especially if they are positive. This confirms the tenant's reliability and tidiness.

 

Marital status

Some landlords may consider the tenant's marital status, especially if the apartment is located in a building where families live. They may prefer tenants without pets or children to avoid potential noise or property damage.

 

Competition

The housing rental market in the Netherlands is very competitive, especially in large cities and student towns. Often, several candidates vie for the same property, so tenants have to respond quickly to offers and provide all the necessary documentation promptly.

 

Personal impression

Some landlords may arrange a personal meeting or interview with potential tenants to understand how suitable they are for the property. It is important to make a good impression, demonstrating responsibility and respect for the property.

 

Other features of renting a home

 

In the Netherlands, properties can be rented in three main conditions:

- Furnished: Includes all necessary furniture and appliances. Such options are usually offered to expats and students but can be more expensive. This may also imply shorter lease terms.

- Semi-furnished: Usually includes basic kitchen appliances, flooring, and curtains. But furniture is generally absent.

- Unfurnished: Property rented without furniture and sometimes even without kitchen appliances. It may only include basic elements such as plumbing and possibly a stove. Such housing gives tenants more rights and opportunities for long-term living.

 

Upon vacating rented accommodation, tenants are usually required to return the property in the condition it was in upon moving in, considering normal wear and tear. This means that serious damage must be repaired at the tenant's expense; otherwise, the cost of repairs may be deducted from the deposit. It is advisable to agree in advance with the landlord on what repairs or replacements are needed to avoid misunderstandings.

 

Issues regarding guest stays depend on the rental terms outlined in the contract. In most cases, landlords allow guest stays, but extended stays (longer than a few weeks) or subletting without permission may be prohibited. It is important to discuss this with the landlord in advance to avoid violating the contract terms.

The main platforms for finding real estate in the Netherlands are Funda.nl, Pararius, and other local sites. You can also contact a real estate agent who will help you find suitable accommodation and negotiate on your behalf. The agent can also handle all legal aspects of the purchase.

 

 

Features of buying new and existing properties

 

Cost and Taxes

- Pre-owned Property: When purchasing pre-owned property, you must pay the property transfer tax, which amounts to 2% of the property's value. This applies to all properties except those purchased for the first time by buyers aged 18 to 35, provided that the property value does not exceed 400,000 euros.

- New Property: When purchasing new property, there is no property transfer tax. However, buyers must pay VAT, which is usually 21% and is included in the price of the new construction. This can make new property more expensive initially.

 

Purchase Timeframes

- Pre-owned Property: The purchase process can be quicker since the property is already built and ready for occupancy. You only need to negotiate with the seller and arrange the paperwork through a notary.

- New Property: If you buy property under construction, the process may take longer. Waiting for the construction to finish can take several months or even years, which should be considered when planning your move.

 

Legal and Technical Checks

- Pre-owned Property: It's important to conduct a thorough technical inspection to assess the property's condition. This is especially relevant for older buildings that may have hidden defects.

- New Property: New property is usually supplied with warranties from the developer, which can reduce the need for additional inspection. However, this does not exclude conducting an independent quality assessment of the construction.

 

Financing and Mortgages

- Pre-owned Property: The terms for obtaining a mortgage may be standard, and the process typically depends on your credit history and income.

- New Property: A mortgage for new construction may include additional terms, such as financing stages dependent on construction progress. This may require a more complex payment structure.

 

Guarantees and Obligations

- Pre-owned Property: Purchasing pre-owned property does not come with seller guarantees, so buyers should pay special attention to the property's condition.

- New Property: When buying new property, you usually receive warranties from the developer for several years, covering potential defects or construction quality issues.

 

Thus, buying property in the Netherlands may seem complex, but following these steps and seeking help from professionals can make this process more understandable and successful.

In the Netherlands, property insurance is not mandatory by law, but it is strongly recommended in most cases, especially if you are purchasing a home with a mortgage.

 

If you are buying a home with a mortgage, most banks will require you to arrange property insurance. This insurance covers damage to the house structure (walls, roof, floors, etc.) as a result of events such as fire, flood, storm, theft, and vandalism. This condition is mandatory for obtaining a mortgage, and without it, the bank may refuse to provide credit.

Utility Infrastructure

The Netherlands offers a well-developed utility infrastructure:

Electricity: Electricity supply in the Netherlands is reliable and stable. The main suppliers are companies like Vattenfall, Eneco, and Greenchoice, which offer various tariff plans, including “green” energy from renewable sources. Most homes in the Netherlands are connected to district heating systems, making the system even more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Water Supply and Sewerage: Access to quality drinking water is provided throughout the Netherlands. Water supply and sewage systems are managed by local water companies, such as Vitens and Waternet. The water in the Netherlands is of high quality and can be drunk straight from the tap. Sewerage systems are well developed and maintained at a high level, ensuring reliable water drainage and wastewater treatment.

Internet and Communication: The Netherlands is known for its high internet speeds and quality communication. The main internet providers, such as KPN, Ziggo, and T-Mobile, offer fast and stable internet, including fiber optic connections in most cities. Mobile communication is also developed and covers almost the entire country, with the rapid introduction of 5G technology.

 

 

Payment of utility services in the Netherlands has its own characteristics, which are important to consider when relocating or purchasing property.

 

Electricity and gas:

- You choose your own electricity and gas supplier. There are many companies offering different rates, including "green" energy options. Typically, a yearly contract is signed with a fixed monthly payment. At the end of the year, a recalculation is conducted based on actual consumption, which may lead to a refund or an additional bill if your consumption has exceeded the expected amount.

- It is important to remember that your bills will include two components: the charge for actual energy consumption and the charge for network usage, which cannot be avoided as the network is managed by regional operators.

 

Water:

- Water supply is regulated by regional water companies, and you cannot choose a supplier. The average cost of water supply per year is about 200 euros per person. In addition to this, water bills usually include taxes for water use and sewage treatment.

 

Internet and television:

- Internet and TV packages in the Netherlands are quite expensive compared to other European countries. On average, a combined package costs about 50-60 euros a month. You can also opt for standalone services, such as internet only, which would be cheaper.

 

Payment methods

Most utility services are paid monthly through automatic debits from your bank account. This is the most convenient way to avoid late payments. In some cases, bills may be issued annually with the possibility of recalculation based on actual consumption.

 

Helpful tips

- Meter readings: When moving into a new home, be sure to take meter readings and report them to the service provider to avoid being charged for the consumption of previous tenants.

- Choosing a supplier: When selecting an energy supplier, pay attention to the terms of the contract and any penalties for early termination. Many companies offer discounts for new customers, which can help you save.

Living in apartment buildings in the Netherlands is regulated by a number of rules and norms that ensure comfortable and respectful coexistence for all residents.

Management association

Apartment buildings often have a management association. This organization is responsible for managing communal areas, such as entrances, elevators, roofs, and gardens. All apartment owners automatically become members of the association and are required to contribute to the maintenance of these shared areas. It is important to attend meetings where decisions about repairs and other important matters concerning the building are made.

Living rules

- Noise: There is a clear requirement to minimize noise, especially during the evening and night hours (from 22:00 to 07:00). This rule is aimed at not disturbing neighbors and ensuring a quiet environment for all residents.

- Use of communal areas: Common spaces such as entrances, staircases, and elevators must be kept clean and tidy. Storing personal belongings in these areas is prohibited, except in cases specifically outlined in the association rules.

Repairs and maintenance

The rental agreement usually states who is responsible for repairs. Tenants are required to maintain the property in good condition and perform minor repairs, such as replacing light bulbs or fixing door handles. Larger repairs, such as roof or heating system repairs, are typically the responsibility of the property owner.

Rules for guests

Residents usually have the right to receive guests in their home, but if a guest plans to stay for a long period, approval from the landlord or management association may be required. Some buildings have limitations on the number of residents, which should also be considered.

Complaints and conflicts

If conflicts arise between residents or with the landlord, they can be resolved through a complaint to the association or with the help of an arbitration body. This body can assist in resolving disputes related to rent level, maintenance, or other issues.

Keeping pets

The keeping of pets in apartment buildings in the Netherlands is regulated by certain rules, which can vary depending on the specific building and management association:

Each homeowners' association can set its own rules regarding the keeping of pets. Some buildings may have restrictions on the number of animals or even a complete ban on keeping them. Therefore, it's important to check for any such rules and what they are before moving in.

Pets should not cause inconvenience to neighbors. This includes noise (e.g., constant dog barking) and potential unpleasant odors. If complaints from neighbors become frequent, the association or landlord may demand action, up to relocating the pet.

Pets should not be left unattended in common areas (entrances, elevators, gardens). It's important for pet owners to maintain cleanliness and order, such as cleaning up after their pets on the premises.

Pet owners bear full responsibility for their pets, including any damage caused to common property or other residents. In some cases, additional liability insurance may be required, especially if the animal is large or prone to aggressive behavior.

The real estate market in the Netherlands is characterized by a number of features that are important to consider when planning a purchase or investment.

 

Housing prices

The real estate market in the Netherlands shows moderate price growth. Economists forecast that housing prices will continue to rise, albeit at a slower pace compared to previous years. This is due to sustained housing demand and limited supply in the market, especially in major cities such as Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.

 

Housing shortage

The market continues to face a shortage of affordable housing, leading to high competition among buyers. Despite government efforts to increase construction volumes, many projects are delayed due to environmental restrictions and labor shortages. This intensifies price pressure and makes home buying difficult for new buyers.

 

Reduction in construction volumes

New construction remains at a low level, further limiting supply in the market. Construction companies face challenges related to new environmental regulations and high levels of bureaucracy, which slow down project implementation.

 

Trends and innovations

There is growing attention to sustainability and the implementation of technology in the real estate market. "Smart" buildings are emerging, using energy-saving technologies and optimizing operational costs. Furthermore, the digitalization of processes and the use of artificial intelligence for data analysis and property management are becoming increasingly important factors.

 

Forecasts and risks

Experts expect the real estate market to remain stable, although changes are possible depending on macroeconomic factors such as inflation and interest rate changes. In the short term, no serious crises are expected, but investors are advised to remain vigilant and consider possible market fluctuations.

The cost of living in the Netherlands depends on many factors, including the city of residence, lifestyle, and family circumstances.

 

Housing

Housing rent constitutes a significant part of expenses. Depending on the city and size of the apartment, rent varies from €1,000 to €2,500 per month for one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, with prices possibly being even higher in Amsterdam. If you plan to buy property, the average cost of an apartment is about €395,000 across the country, but in Amsterdam, prices can exceed €500,000.

 

Utilities

Utility costs (electricity, heating, water) for an apartment of about 85 m² are approximately €150-€250 per month. Internet and mobile communication add another €40-€60 per month.

 

Food

Monthly food expenses range from €300 to €400 per person. Prices may vary depending on the place of purchase: chain supermarkets like Albert Heijn offer a wide range but are more expensive than Lidl or Aldi.

 

Transport

The Netherlands has a well-developed public transportation system. The average cost of a local transport trip is around €3.40 per ride. For frequent travel, purchasing monthly passes is advantageous, ranging from €80 to €100 depending on the city. Using a personal car is more expensive: fuel costs about €1.60-€1.80 per liter, and parking in the city center can cost up to €7.50 per hour.

 

Medical Services

Health insurance in the Netherlands is mandatory and costs about €130-€150 per month per person. It covers basic medical services, but additional insurance types (e.g., dental) are paid separately.

 

Entertainment and Leisure

Prices for entertainment and leisure can also vary. A dinner in a mid-range restaurant will cost €50-€100 for two, a movie ticket — about €14. A fitness membership costs approximately €36 per month.

 

Overall, living in the Netherlands is quite expensive, especially in major cities. However, due to the high quality of life and stable economy, many consider these expenses justified.

There are many government support programs and subsidies in the Netherlands that are available to both citizens and residents. These programs aim to help cover essential expenses, such as housing rent, health insurance, child care, and other important life aspects. Here are the main types of support available in 2024:

 

Health Insurance Subsidy

This subsidy is intended to cover mandatory health insurance expenses. To receive this subsidy, your income must not exceed a certain level (€37,496 per year for one person in 2024). The maximum subsidy amount can reach €127 per month, depending on your income and family status.

 

Housing Rent Subsidy

This subsidy helps tenants pay for housing rent. To be eligible for the subsidy, you must meet several criteria, including age (18 and older), renting housing with a private entrance, kitchen, and bathroom, as well as adhering to the maximum rent level (€879.66 per month). The amount of the subsidy depends on your income and the rent cost.

 

Child Care Subsidies

This subsidy helps cover child care expenses, such as payment for kindergartens or nannies. To receive this subsidy, both parents must be working, and child care expenses must be confirmed by official documents. The amount of the subsidy depends on the family's income and the number of children.

 

Child Budget

This is financial support for families with children, paid based on the family's income and the number of children. In 2024, this support was increased, and families can receive up to €883 for the second child and up to €750 for the first child.

 

Emergency Energy Payment Assistance

This fund provides temporary financial aid to cover energy expenses for low-income households. The program is extended until March 2024 and aims to support families experiencing difficulties in paying energy bills.

 

Housing Purchase Support Programs

For young buyers and low-income families, there are programs that can offer subsidies or benefits for purchasing a first home. In some cases, a subsidy of up to €75,000 is provided to help with the initial deposit for buying a house.

 

These programs significantly reduce the financial burden on residents of the Netherlands, ensuring access to necessary resources and services.