Housing Market
Finding a place to live in Amsterdam can be a challenge. However, with research and the right advice, you can find your perfect home in a popular market. When searching for accommodation, there are three possibilities: public housing, private rentals and buying property.
Public and private rental accommodation
Essentially, there are two rental markets: public housing (sociale huurwoningen) or the free (vrije) private sector.
Whichever you opt for, all rental dwellings are subject to the House Value Rating System(woningwaarderingsstelsel) whereby the quality of a house is awarded points for standards, size, location, and facilities. It is particularly useful for calculating whether the rental price is fair in proportion to the quality of your home. Visit VROM (Ministry of Housing) for an overview.
For your guide to the rental market, see Rental Property in Amsterdam.
Buying a house or apartment
If you’re planning a long-term stay in the city, there are excellent monetary benefits that come with becoming a homeowner. Mortgage (hypotheek) interest payments are subject to tax deductions if the house is your primary residence, and even the notary (notaris) costs that go into the signing of the contract are tax deductible. Also, the advantage of having your employer either pay the rent or contribute to it is taxed as a benefit.
For your guide to the buyer's market, see Buying Property in Amsterdam.
Housing rights
It’s important for everyone who buys or rents a home in the Netherlands to know what their rights are. What do you do if there is a conflict with your landlord? What are your rights if the house you are buying has hidden defects?
For your guide to rights of tenants and homeowners, see Housing Rights.
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