1. Understand the Dutch rental market

The Dutch rental market is competitive, especially in city centers and popular neighbourhoods. Be prepared to face competition from both expats and locals.

The rental market in the Netherlands is segmented into three categories:

1. Social housing: Government-regulated with strict maximum income requirements.
2. Mid-range housing: Also government-regulated, with slightly higher income limits.
3. Private housing: The most common option for expats, as it has no income restrictions.

Whether a rental property falls into the social or mid-range category is determined by the government through a point system. Every characteristic of a property earns points. When properties fall under social or mid-range housing, the rent will be calculated based on the amount of points of that home. The maximum rent for these rentals is €1.184,82 per month. To qualify for social or mid-range rentals, tenants must meet certain income requirements. Once a single-person household earns more than €62.161,- per year, or a multi-person household earns more than €82.921,- per year, they are not eligible for social or mid-range rentals. Expats typically earn more than these income limits and will therefore need to look for homes in the last category, private housing.

Due to government regulation, the number of private rentals has decreased, as shown in the Pararius rental monitor. This had led to increased demand and scarcity in the private rental market. Because of these challenges, your search may take longer than expected.

To increase your changes on finding a rental:

1. Start your search early: This is especially important when you have specific preferences.
2. Be flexible: Consider different neighbourhoods or property types.
3. Provide complete information: Small gesture with a big impact.

2. Use reliable rental platforms

Funda.nl and Pararius.nl are the two largest and most reliable rental platforms in the Netherlands. They list properties from real estate agents and property managers. However, not all available properties are listed on these platforms. You could always check the website of a real estate agency or property management company for their availability. We hear you asking... How can you tell if a real estate agency or property manager is trustworthy?

How to find a trustworthy real estate agent or property manager:

1. Check for multiple listings: Avoid agencies that list properties that are already listed by another agency on other platforms.
2. Read Google reviews: Positive reviews indicate a reputable company.
3. Assess the quality of the listing: Clear and complete information is a good sign.
4. Contact te agency or property manager: a responsive and informative agent is a positive indicator.

Like many others, Hello Housing does not always list every available property on rental platforms. If you are curious for our availability:

Find our available apartments in Rotterdam or The Hague here

3. Take a closer look at the area

Do you have children? You might want to live close to a playground or an international school. Do you love nature and you'd like to go for walks, a park nearby could be important for you. Or maybe you are looking to use public transport often. In that case, it's helpful to have a bus, tram or train station nearby. Take some time to explore the neighbourhood to see if it suits you. Here are a few things that are always good to check:

1. Proximity to your workplace: A shorter commute can improve your work-life balance.
2. Public transportation: Check NS or 9292 for train, tram and bus schedules.
3. Access to amenities: Nearby supermarkets, healthcare facilities and parks can enhance your quality of life.
4. School districts: If you have children, research the local schools or international schools.

4. Be aware of additional costs

In addition to the monthly rent, often, you will be presented with additional costs when renting a home. In some cases it starts as soon as you'd like to register on a rental platform. But what costs can you expect when renting in the Netherlands?

1. Deposit: This may be one or two months' rent.
2. Service charges: Cover costs for cleaning and maintaining the communal spaces.
3. Utilities: Gas, water, and electricity.
4. Homeowners' Association (VvE) Fees: If applicable, this covers only costs directly linked to the use of the property
5. Other: Such as internet and television.

To simplify the rental process and eliminate many additional costs, you could opt for 'all-inclusive' apartments.

You may always check our available all inclusive apartments here

5. Prepare yourself for the administrative requirements

You've found the perfect home! What now?

To Rent an apartment in the Netherlands, you must provide the following documents:

1. Personal identification: A passport or ID card.
2. Your residence permit: If applicable.
3. Proof of income: This could be a contract, payslip or employer's statement.
4. Housing allowance statement: If you receive a housing allowance, this would be applicable.

Optional documents:

1. Income statement clarification: Sometimes international income statements can be unclear. By providing a clarification, you can help the landlord understand the documents better.
2. Landlord reference: If you've rented a property before, your previous landlord can provide a reference recommending you as a good tenant.
3. Introduction letter: To stand out from other applicants, you could write an introduction letter. In this letter you can introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good match for the property.

Always check the advertisement's requirements carefully. Make sure you meet the requirements of the property, such as income criteria and ensure you send all the necessary documents in one go.

Although there is a lot involved in moving to the Netherlands and renting a home, it is also an incredibly exciting step in your life. Hello Housing wishes you the best of luck in finding your new home and look forward to welcoming you to the small but beautiful Netherlands!

Do you have any questions on renting a home or are you currently looking for a rental? Feel free to contact our housing experts here!