The Netherlands is very densely populated. There are more than 16 million inhabitants and this figure is expected to grow to 17 - 18 million people by 2030.  In 2010, there were more than seven million homes in the Netherlands.

Types of housing

• Detached (Vrijstaand)
• Semi-detached (Twee onder een kap)
• Terraced/Town houses (Rijtjeshuis)

The most common type of dwelling is the terraced house.  This is a family home, two or three storeys high, with a front and back garden, adjoined by two, three or more identical homes. 

A standard Dutch house has two rooms in addition to the kitchen, living room, toilet and bathroom. 

Most Dutch people live in urban areas, yet the limitation of space is putting pressure on rural areas too.  Many city dwellers would love to live amidst the water and the greenery of the countryside.  Since space is scarce in the Netherlands, many people live in low- or high-rise flats.

Due to a lack of information on the local property market, regulations, laws and technicalities, it is advisable for newcomers to use the services of an estate agent (makelaar), rather than trying to find a property by themselves.  This applies to both renting and buying properties and saves unnecessary costs that might be incurred on top of an agent's commission.

Cost of housing

The cost of housing depends on the area and the size of the property. 

Most expats rent properties but some buy their homes.  Both options are available depending on your company relocation policy, income and the length of your stay.

During the first quarter of 2010 the average house sold in the Netherlands for € 232,000.  This is an increase of 0.4% in comparison to the last quarter of 2009.  In the "Randstad" area (the area including and in between The Hague, Amsterdam, Utrecht and Rotterdam) housing is most expensive and Amsterdam is considered to be the most expensive city to live in.  Due to the constant shortage of new housing, the market remains tight.

Rent or buy?

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to rent or buy a house in the Netherlands.  If you plan to stay in the Netherlands for a short period it may be more advisable to rent a property rather than buy one.  Here are two important reasons why it is better to rent:

• The costs associated with buying amount to approximately 10% of the purchase price. You will have to make a 10% profit, if you do not want to lose money. Recovering that amount during a few years' stay in the Netherlands can be difficult
• You have to maintain your premises. Consider the costs incurred during the process of redecorating your new home

In the ACCESS guide "Housing and accommodation", you will find useful information on renting and buying property, valuation and about choosing an agent.

    De Regenbogen Beheer   -   BizStay The Hague   -   PR  Housing  -  Voorhoeve Foundation