Discovering The Netherlands

The Hague works on a computer listing of properties that are available to all rental agencies. Home seekers should take care to choose a qualified real estate agent. Check on the agent’s credential and affiliation to the municipalities. Private Insurance This insurance is optional, but highly recommended. Many landlords will demand proof of liability insurance before signing a lease contract, since it covers cases of liability for injury or damage to other persons or their property. Basic or standard coverage is €5 to 10 million against injury or damage and €1 million against damage to rented property. Some insurances offer special premiums for singles. Unfinished Properties In The Netherlands, unfurnished houses are difficult to find. Most of these homes are available only to those who already hold a residence permit. Other permits may be required by the town hall, generally if a property rents for less than a certain amount. These restrictions on unfurnished homes often drive newcomers to seek semi-furnished or furnished houses. Partly Furnished Accommodation Housing with built-in or pre-purchased appliances are the most common if the landlord installs a kitchen has a higher rent to accommodate for the appliances. Such an agreement should be part of the rental contract; a precise list of items (walk-through protocol) is required. The same applies when buying a property. Buying a property If you do decide to buy a home, make sure that the contract has a contingency clause in case you have difficulties obtaining a mortgage. If you see some potential to improve or expand your purchased home, check with the local authorities, before you buy that there are no restrictions which would prevent you from making them. Home buyers should note that mortgage suppliers in The Netherlands require that you have a residence permit. Your Dwellworks local consultant may be of assistance in this case and may also be able to provide you with valuable information about the “ kadaster” , or purchase price of the home. Understanding the Rental Contract Most expatriates choose to rent. Rental contracts for apartments are usually in a standard, pre-printed format. Details relevant to the apartment conditions and terms are filled in by the landlord and or estate agent. Duration of Rental Contracts It is common for a lease to cover an indefinite period. If the term on a lease is not specified, it is understood to be one month. Expatriates often rent for at least six months, more typically a year or longer, up to a maximum of five years. The rent is fixed for the first year and may be adjusted annually thereafter. Rents are never adjusted downward.

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Discovering The Netherlands