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Renting a property in the Netherlands

Renting a property in the Netherlands can be a confusing process, full of pitfalls, often hidden costs and complex contracts that are difficult to terminate.

First you need to find suitable properties that meet your criteria, visit different ones and then start the process of negotiating the price and contract conditions. It is very important to have an expert helping you during this process. With your interests at heart our agents know what to watch out for and understand the Dutch language as well as the legalities.

At Welocate we have created the Home Renters Plan to help expats rent a property for short, medium or long stay. Our experts can help you through all steps to find the right rental home for you.

The Home Renters Plan

Are you searching for a house or apartment to rent? If so, the Home Renters Plan is the ideal solution for you.

We have developed a complete package of services for a fixed price to assist you. The Home Renters Plan takes all your worries away through the entire renting process.

We will be there to help you right from the start to find suitable properties that are within your budget and specified requirements.

Renting a home

The following show you the steps required to rent a home in the Netherlands as well as explain how we can help you.

Step 1: Home Renters Plan options

The first step is for you to decide which option of the Home Renters Plan best fits your needs. This depends on where you are in your rental journey and the level of support that you may require. In the steps below, you can easily see what is included with the two packages we offer:

Step 2: Creating your profile

We provide a dedicated advisor for you to discuss your exact requirements and create a personalised profile. We utilise this information to search for your ideal properties, and it also helps us promote your suitability to prospective landlords.

Step 3: Searching for properties

Upon completing your profile, we start searching for a suitable property. We use various sources such as our extensive network, checking multiple websites for availability, and utilising proprietary automation in order to find properties before other people become aware. In this way, we ensure you have the highest chance of finding ideal properties.

Step 4: Booking viewings

In the current fast-moving rental market, speed is of the essence. Upon finding a suitable property we will immediately arrange a viewing on your behalf. This gives you the best possible chance of being able to secure an appointment.

Step 5: Viewing properties

Once we have booked a viewing, we will immediately contact you to check if you find the property suitable. If you like the property and want to continue, there are several options available for attending the appointment as described below:

  • You attend together with your advisor
  • We attend and call you via FaceTime or WhatsApp
  • We attend, record a video and send it to you immediately
Step 6: Making an offer

It is essential, at this stage, all relevant information is provided to the person or company renting the property. Speed is of the essence to increase your chances. If you wish to proceed with renting the property, we will discuss the best approach, and after obtaining your approval, we will submit an offer on your behalf.

Step 7: Reviewing the contract

Once we have booked a viewing, we will immediately contact you to check if you find the property suitable. If you like the property and want to continue, there are several options available for attending the appointment as described below:

  • You attend together with your advisor
  • We attend and call you via FaceTime or WhatsApp
  • We attend, record a video and send it to you immediately
Step 8: After signing

We will assist you in setting up your electricity, gas, water and internet ready for when you move into your new home. Before moving in and receiving the keys, you will usually need to pay the first month's rent and the agreed deposit into the bank account specified in the contract.

Step 9: Moving in day

We will be there to help with the check-in and make a detailed record of the condition of the property and furnishings, note the meter readings and answer any questions you may have.

  • You attend together with your advisor
  • We attend and call you via FaceTime or WhatsApp
  • We attend, record a video and send it to you immediately
Step 10: Congratulations!

Welcome to your new home! We are more than happy to provide additional assistance after you move in, should you require this. Feel free to contact us with any questions.

What it costs

The Home Renters Plan options are offered at a fixed price. The table below details the services included within each option. The prices are including 21% VAT.

Home Renters Plan
Dedicated advisor
Profile creation
Property searching
Viewing scheduling
Attend viewings
Offer creation
Contract check
Utility setup
Check-in service
Fee
Premium
5 ¹
€ 1495
Premium plus
Unlimited ¹
€ 1995
Home Renters Plan
Dedicated advisor
Profile creation
Property searching
Viewing scheduling
Attend viewings *
Offer creation
Contract check
Utility setup
Check-in service ²
Premium € 1495
Premium plus € 1995

* For Premium, 5 viewings are included. For Premium plus, viewings are unlimited. ²

1. The attended viewings must be used within 3 months of the start of the contract. For the 'Premium' option, if you use all your viewings, it is possible to upgrade to the 'Premium plus'.

Interested? Feel free to contact or call us.



Frequently asked questions

  • What does the Home Renters Plan include?
    • Our Home Renters Plan assists tenants through the entire rental process — from defining your search profile and arranging viewings to reviewing contracts, handling negotiations, and coordinating move-in.
  • Do you help tenants nationwide?
    • Yes. Our network covers all major Dutch cities and regions, offering local expertise wherever you want to live.
  • How does the rental search process work?
    • After confirming your preferences and budget, your agent searches for suitable properties, arranges viewings, and negotiates terms once you’ve found a home you wish to rent.
  • What documents do I need to provide?
    • Landlords require identification, residence permit, proof of income (salary slips or employment contract), and recent bank statements for screening. Your agent will guide you through preparing these documents.
  • When do I pay the service fee?
    • The service fee is payable once a rental agreement is successfully concluded. See our Packages Page for details
  • What if I change my mind after agreeing to rent?
    • If you withdraw after confirming your intent to rent, cancellation fees apply as outlined in your agreement.
  • Do you represent both tenant and landlord?
    • No. Welocate represents you, the tenant, ensuring your interests are protected at every stage of the process.
  • Can you help me find a short-term rental?
    • Yes. However, please note that rental agreements shorter than 12 months have become increasingly rare in the Netherlands due to recent changes in rental legislation. Availability of short-term rentals varies by city and season, and your agent will be able to advise you on what is legally permitted and currently available.
  • Do you assist with utilities and moving arrangements?
    • Yes. We can help you set up utilities, internet, moving services, and maintenance through our trusted partners.
  • What happens if the landlord cancels or the property is withdrawn?
    • If the landlord withdraws the property before signing, you will not be charged any service fee.
  • Who prepares the lease agreement?
    • The agent working for the landlord prepares the lease agreement, Welocate will check it on your behalf. 
  • How long does it take to find a rental home in the Netherlands?
    • Most expats find a home within 2 to 6 weeks, depending on budget, location, and season. Using a local agent speeds up the process significantly.
  • What documents do expats need to rent an apartment in the Netherlands?
    • Landlords typically request ID, residence permit, proof of income, and recent bank statements. Having these ready helps secure a property faster.
  • Is it hard for expats to rent in the Netherlands?
    • Competition can be strong, especially in cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht. Working with an agent who has local connections gives you faster access to available listings.
  • What is the average rental deposit in the Netherlands?
    • Most landlords ask for a deposit equal to one or two months’ rent, refundable at the end of the tenancy if the property is returned in good condition.
  • Can I rent a home without a Dutch employment contract?
    • Yes, it’s possible. Some landlords accept international employment proof or guarantors. Your agent can help present your documents to improve acceptance chances.