THIRD PARTY CONTENT: Finding a house or an apartment is always challenging, but doing it in another country, it can be completely overwhelming. You don’t know where to start, who to contact, what the rules are, and which documents you need. Here are five things to think about.

1 Renting versus buying

Renting a house or an apartment is very popular in the Netherlands among both natives and expats. Renting is often times easier and it offers more flexibility. Around 40% of all Dutch people rent their home and a high proportion of rental properties are part of social housing programmes. In the long run, buying a property is usually more cost-efficient. But when you are new to the country and you want to get acquainted with a city, renting is probably your best option.

2 Use an online property portal

If you are looking for a property to rent, an online property portal is a good way to start. On a website like Huurstunt.nl, you can find the available houses, apartments, studios, and other spaces in your preferred neighbourhood. You can filter your search according to your personal preferences so finding a space that fits your needs becomes a lot easier.

3 How to pay rent

You will pay rent each month, usually at the end of a month or at the beginning of a new one. This amount you pay is made up of the rent itself and a monthly service fee. It is easiest to set up a standing order through your bank for this. When renting a new space, most tenants are asked to pay a security deposit and the first month’s rent. This security deposit is usually between one and three times the monthly rent. This deposit will be returned to you when you move out and have left everything is in good condition.

4 Utilities

Some expat housing landlords offer properties which arefurnished  and include gas, electricity and internet. But most of the time, this won’t be the case. Most houses in the Netherlands are rented out unfurnished and it will be up to you to arrange and to pay for electricity, internet, water and gas.

5 Know your rights and duties

As a tenant, you have certain obligations to fulfill. You need to pay your rent on time, keep the property clean and safe and you have to follow the housing rules as outlined in your rental contract. But the landlord or housing corporation has certain obligations as well. It is their responsibility to cover any maintenance or repairs that you can’t easily fix yourself and they have to solve issues with the plumbing or electricity. Also, a landlord is not allowed to enter the property without your permission. You have a right to privacy in your own living space.

This article was provided by a third party and does not fall under the editorial responsibility of DutchNews.nl