Housing
We first notice that living in the Netherlands is a problem because there is a shortage of housing. One of the reasons for this shortage is that many homes are occupied by only one person. Due to the number of divorces, there is extra demand for homes for single people. The problem also increased as people live longer in their house.
A good home is very important for the Netherlands, because in a climate that is often wet and cold, a good home is of course important.
Types of housing
Types of housing (see picture above)
1. Apartment: we mainly see apartments in the city. Often we see a large building that consists of a number of apartments. We call such a large building “a flat”. Sometimes there are special apartments for students.
2. Single-family home: it concerns a home for one family. We find these types of houses in every place. Usually they are linked together.Therefore the name “row-house” is used in Dutch. If that is not the case, we speak of a detached house. The Dutch name refers to a free hous.
3. Detached house: it is usually a house for wealthier people.
4. Nursing home: the elderly continue to live at home for as long as possible, but if that is no longer possible, they live in a nursing home. They almost never live with their children.
thinking of a house…
To obtain a house
In the Netherlands, there are several possibilities to obtain a house. Here are some common options:
1: Buying a house:
This involves purchasing a property through a real estate transaction. You can search for available houses on real estate websites, work with a real estate agent, and negotiate the purchase price with the seller.
2: Renting a house:
Renting is another common option. You can choose to rent a house from a private landlord or through a housing association. Rental contracts can vary in duration and terms, and there may be eligibility criteria depending on the type of housing.
Social housing: The Netherlands has a system of social housing, which provides affordable rental housing to individuals and families with lower incomes. To qualify for social housing, you need to meet specific income requirements and register with the local housing association.
Usually this is the way for permit holders as a first step to obtain a house.
Housing cooperatives: Housing cooperatives/Housing associations are organizations where members collectively own and manage properties. Members contribute to the cooperative and have a say in decision-making. This option allows for more control and community involvement in housing. Sometimes you need to contact the municipality for this possibility.
Rent a house
In the Netherlands, there are different ways you can rent a house. Here are some common options:
Private Rental Market: Many houses and apartments are available for rent from individual landlords or real estate agencies. You can find rental properties online, in ads, or by contacting local real estate agencies directly. Prices are much highter with respect to renting a house form a housing association.
Social Housing: The Netherlands has affordable rental housing called social housing. It’s mainly for people with low incomes. To qualify for social housing, you usually need to register with your local government and meet certain income and other requirements. Social housing can be in high demand, so there may be waiting lists.
Student Housing: If you’re a student, there are housing options just for students, like dormitories, shared apartments, or student housing complexes. Educational institutions or specialized housing organizations provide these options.
Short-Term Rentals: If you only need a place to stay temporarily, there are short-term rental choices. You can rent furnished or serviced apartments for a shorter period. These rentals are more expensive but offer flexibility.
Housing Associations: Housing associations in the Netherlands provide rental housing, including social housing. They own and manage many rental properties. You can apply for housing through these associations, but availability may vary. Usually, your first house will be from a housing association.
Keep in mind that renting in the Netherlands can be competitive, especially in popular cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. It’s a good idea to start searching early, have the necessary documents and references ready, and consider using reliable rental platforms or getting help from local real estate agencies or housing organizations.
For rent
Talkin about insurance
Insurances
Don’t forget the insurances.
To be insured you have to pay a premium.
• Liability insurance: if you accidentally break something at someone else’s home, school or on the street. It’s not about your things that are broken, but someone else’s.
• Contents insurance: everything in your house. If something in the house is broken (due to fire, water or theft).
• Residential home insurance: Building insurance : only for owner-occupied homes. If something breaks down in the house due to fire, storm or water. This insurance is necessary to obtain a mortgage.
• Health insurance: the basic insurance is compulsory (additional insurance is possible).