In the Netherlands, you can live in a rented or owner-occupied home. Many people start in rented accommodation.
If you come to live in the Netherlands, you can rent a home. You can rent accommodation through a landlord or housing association. There are rules that protect you as a tenant. You will get a contract that says what you have agreed when it comes to the rent, deposit and notice period. You usually pay rent every month.
Social sector rented housing in the Netherlands is housing with a low rent. It is meant for people with lower incomes. You can register with a housing association. You might have to wait a long time for a home, especially if you want a home in a big city. You need to be legally resident in the Netherlands and often need to have a citizen service number (BSN).
If you earn more, you can also rent a home in the private sector. Rents on homes in this sector are not restricted and are often higher than the rents charged for social sector rented housing. You usually do not have to wait as long, but the rent is not protected. Always check what is in your tenancy agreement before you sign it.
Some people buy a home. You can also do this if you come from another country. In many cases you need to have a regular income. Many banks and mortgage brokers can help you in English. If you buy a home, you pay extra costs, such as notary fees, in addition to the agreed price.
You can search for rented houses through websites, housing associations or estate agents. In big cities, it can be difficult to find housing quickly. Register with a housing association as early as possible if you want social sector housing.
Social sector rented housing is housing with a low rent. It is for people with low incomes. The rent must be no higher than around €933 per month (2026). You have to register for this type of housing, and you often wait a long time.
No. In the Netherlands there are rules about rent and maintenance. Your landlord cannot simply raise your rent or evict you without a good reason. If you have a problem, you can as Het Juridisch Loket or the Huurcommissie for help.
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