Housing in the Netherlands

 

Finding the perfect home is not easy in the densely populated Netherlands. Here’s how it works..

 

 

The Dutch housing market experiences accelerating growth in sales prices and rents due to persistent supply shortages, as well as recently enacted changes to the rent control system.

 

Looking ahead, experts anticipate continued upward pressure on prices, supported by rising wages and improved market sentiment amid ongoing supply constraints.

FINDING A HOME

 

  • It’s a sellers’ market now in the Netherlands, and housing is in high demand.

 

  • Competition for housing in popular areas is fierce, so be ready to act, bid and sign quickly.

 

  • Many people find homes through word of mouth, so letting others know that you’re searching for a place is always beneficial to the house hunt.

 

  • There are various agencies specialising in serving expats. Be wary of those that charge a registration fee, which can steer a path through the local market.

 

  • You can contact an agent to help you out in the home finding process. They will actively search the market to find the property you are looking for.

 

  • If you find a rental property listed on any website yourself, then that agent is working on behalf of the owner, and for that, you are free of any agency fees or contract costs. But, it is recommended that you hire an agent yourself who can help you out with the rental contract and other issues.

 

  • Using a reputable agent, or agency, can help you to avoid renting an ‘illegal’ apartment, a scam, a sub-lease, not getting back your deposit after check out, being bound by an unreasonable contract, or just over paying for a property.

 

  • If you also want assistance with the entire relocation process, then you can choose to get in touch with a relocation agency. Depending upon the organisation, these agencies can help facilitate not only finding housing but also your travel, setting up a bank account, putting you in touch with insurance providers, finding schools for your children and more.

 

  • Buyers who want to lease out their property in the future should make sure they are permitted to. Check the terms of your mortgage provider.

 

You can find more information and the following subchapters about “Housing” in Expat Survival Guide 2026:

 

  • Finding a home
  • Housing sectors
  • Renting & Buying
  • Using an agent
  • Rules & Regulations
  • Costs & Contracts
  • Short-term housing options
  • Students
  • Arranging a mortgage
  • Important terms
  • Utilities & Communications
  • Tips

 

At “I am not a Tourist”, we’re passionate about helping expats thrive. Whether you’re brand new to the Netherlands or you’ve been here for a while, we’re here to help you make the most of your expat experience.

 

ENJOY living, working and studying in the Netherlands!