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Amsterdam

Moving to Amsterdam

An Insider’s Guide to Living in Amsterdam 

This Amsterdam relocation guide has been designed with the explicit intention to provide expats and travellers with all they need to know about moving to Amsterdam.

The first exciting chapter covers Accommodation.

Within this chapter, we will be covering the glorious rental market of Amsterdam as well as other pieces of practical knowledge that will  come in handy.

Amsterdam Accommodation guide

A Guide for the Bold and Brave

The guide in your hands has been purposefully constructed to help you understand the intricacies of the Amsterdam Rental Market.

The property market in Amsterdam is currently recovering to 2008 highs. After seven years of sharply decreasing prices, brought on largely by the economic crisis and the recession, it is with confidence that the Dutch Market can be recorded as regaining its balance. This does mean that house prices are rising and becoming expensive for buyers, whether they’re first time or expats crossing over.

1.1 Need vs Want

It is vitally important that before you start moving you have a rough idea of what you want from your rental property. Does the rental need to allow pets? Do you need a garden? How far can you commute to work every morning? How important are public transport links?

All these questions need to be answered as they can help you assess what your ideal property will be and what location you want to be situated in. Then, you will see the number of properties on your list decrease and thus your dream property will appear.

When you have your needs and wants all together, your rental search will be easier to navigate through the storms.

Competition

The housing market, like in any city or country, is very competitive and is important you apply your patience as you weave your way across the rickety landscape.

Registering for email alerts on property sites can alleviate a lot of pressure and keep you in the loop with the latest happenings.

Most people use agents to assist with their property search. It is recommended that you contact the agent by phone, when you’ve found somewhere of interest, rather than emailing. This looks more professional and allows you to build a working relationship  between you and the agent. This can ensure that you get the dream accommodation you want.

Be Prepared

When taking the next big step in your life, it is always best to be prepared. Paperwork and all of that business must all be in order, otherwise you will be adding further hassle where there doesn’t need to be any.

The landlord and agency will require all the essential documents that prove who you are, your immigration status and so forth. Make sure you have all of these documents (or the ones that are relevant to you) prepared before you start your search or sign anything:

  • Passport.
  • Birth Certificate.
  • Social Security Card.
  • Student ID card.
  • Mortgage documents.
  • Letter from employer.
  • ATM card, credit card, bank book, bank statement from Netherlands bank.
  • Medicare Card (For those moving from the UK).
  • International driver’s licence.
  • Marriage certificate.

Furnished vs Unfurnished

This is an important issue to consider before moving into a new property. Very often this is the landlord’s decision and not the prospective tenant’s. This may well influence your decision, especially if you want the furniture to be present or whether you would rather buy your own.

Accommodation in Amsterdam

Don’t be afraid to ask or to double check with your landlord or agent if you’re unsure about what is or isn’t included in the property. Answers to pertinent questions guarantee the reduction of stress levels and bring peace to the upheaval.

1.2 Where to Look

A stunning and lavish city, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th Century. It was the leading centre of finance and diamonds with the Amsterdam Stock Exchange being the oldest stock market in the world.

Can't find what you are looking for?

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