Finding a home

After the big move, most expats start by renting an apartment or house. If you know that you’re only going to be in the Netherlands for a relatively short amount of time (for example, on a fixed-term contract for a job), renting is generally the best option. And if you do end up staying longer, it gives you the opportunity to get to know the country, region or neighbourhoods and take your time to find a home you like. Most rental agreements start at 12 months and become more flexible after the first year – generally giving you the freedom to end your contract with a month’s notice.

There are two renting options available in the Netherlands: social housing (sociale huurwoning) and the private sector (vrije sector). Social housing is means tested, and there are generally long waiting lists, so most international arrivals rent in the private sector.

When looking for a place to rent, it’s a good idea to register with a housing association. The downside is that waiting lists at these associations are often very long, especially when looking to rent in the big cities like Rotterdam or Amsterdam. Read more about Housing associations. 

Start your search with housing websites:

Funda: Ideal for both renting and buying property.

Pararius: Focused on private-sector rentals.

Rentslam: Another excellent choice for private-sector options.

Woningnet: Specifically for social housing.

Additionally, consider using RentBird and Uprent. RentBird allows you to quickly search and compare rental listings across multiple platforms, ensuring you find the best deal. Uprent offers an intuitive interface to streamline the renting process, helping you submit applications faster and more efficiently.

Furnishing Your Home

To furnish your new place affordably, check out kringloops (thrift shops) across the country. These second-hand stores offer a variety of furniture and household items at great prices, making it easy to create a cozy home without breaking the bank.

Use the interactive MapitOut tool to calculate your commuting to work and other key locations. This visual representation of your daily travel routine helps you to make important decisions about your move to the Netherlands.

Set your preferences: choose any location as the “from” address and click on your preferred mode of transport and the time you’d like to spend travelling. Additionally you can continue adding locations and commuting time, for example children’s schools. Eventually you’re creating a visual representation of your daily routine. Clicking on “show overlapping area” reveals the area that meets your requirements, and might be a good place to search for potential homes.   

Try the MapitOut tool now. 

As a tenant, you’re protected under the Rent Act (Huurwet), which means the rental accommodation must meet certain criteria, and that both landlords and tenants must follow certain rules. If things don’t go as planned, you’re able to fall back on the rules listed in your contract, which often include issues regarding deposits, rent, maintenance and service charges.

When renting a home in the Netherlands, you might be eligible for a subsidy on your rental costs, known as huurtoeslag, if you meet certain criteria.

How to apply? Gather documents: proof of income, rental agreement, and ID. Apply online: use the Belastingdienst website with a DigiD (digital ID). Deadline: apply within 12 months of starting your tenancy.

How much can you receive? The amount varies based on your income, rent price, and household size, ranging from a few euros to several hundred monthly. You may need to renew annually or report changes in your income or living situation to avoid fines.

If you’re living in the Netherlands for a longer period, buying your own home might make more sense, financially and personally. Mortgages in the Netherlands usually run for a 20-to-30-year term, but it's also possible to opt for a shorter period. Another thing that’s good to know: the interest you pay on your mortgage is partially tax-deductible. Get in touch with your bank or a mortgage advisor to find out more about taking out a mortgage in the Netherlands, as well as eligibility requirements and the types of mortgages on offer.