Tips for Rental House Viewing in the Netherlands + Checklist

Finding the perfect rental home in the Netherlands can be a daunting task. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide, drawing on our experience of helping over 5,000 people find their ideal homes. Packed with essential tips and expert advice, this guide is designed to help you make a lasting impression, ask the right questions, and navigate the rental market with confidence.

In a competitive rental market like The Netherlands, property viewings are often the make-or-break moment. Being well-prepared can set you apart from other potential tenants. Our guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you're ready to make the most of your viewings and significantly boost your chances of securing your dream rental.

Note: If anything in this guide is unclear, or you need some extra help, feel free to reach out. We are here for you! 💛

Making a Strong First Impression

Be Yourself
Authenticity is crucial. Avoid overplaying your enthusiasm or appearing disinterested. Genuine behaviour resonates well with landlords.

Punctuality is Key
Arriving on time sets a positive tone for the viewing. Aim to be 5-10 minutes early to show respect for the landlord’s time.

Dress Appropriately
Opt for neat, comfortable clothing. While you don’t need to overdress, avoid overly casual outfits. This shows you respect the occasion and are serious about the property.

Conduct Yourself Appropriately During The Viewing

Stay Professional
Keep your excitement in check and focus on relevant rental details rather than personal decor ideas.

Be Polite and Friendly
A positive and courteous demeanor helps make a good impression.

Introduce Yourself
A brief introduction can help build a personal connection with the landlord or agent.

Prepare and Ask Thoughtful Questions

Research in Advance
Know the key details about the property and the neighborhood to show you’re well-prepared and serious.

Bring Relevant Documents
Have copies of your ID, pay slips, and an employer’s reference ready. Being organized is impressive.

Key Questions to Ask:

• What’s the exact rent and what does it include?
• Are there any additional costs like service charges or energy fees?
• What’s the state of maintenance, and who handles repairs?
• Are pets allowed?
• Can you make modifications, like painting?
• What’s the parking situation?
• What’s the energy label and insulation quality?
• What’s the minimum lease term?
• Have there been recent or planned renovations?
• What does the current tenant think of the place?

Be Aware of Additional Costs

Clarify Financial Obligations
Ensure you understand all potential costs associated with the rental, including utilities and maintenance fees.

Do Your Own Research Look into municipal taxes and other fees like waste disposal. Spread these costs over 12 months to gauge their impact on your budget.

Use Tools and Resources Websites like independer.nl can give you a sense of internet and energy costs.

Don’t Be Intimidated by Competition

Stay Focused High interest in the property might be daunting, but it also means it’s a great find. Pay attention to details and ask questions even if there are many other viewers.

Be Prepared Many people are unprepared. Being organized and quick to act gives you an advantage.

Manage Multiple Viewings Coordinate with your housemate or partner to efficiently plan and attend multiple viewings.

Understand the Duration of a Viewing

What to Expect Property viewings typically last between 20 to 30 minutes. Use this time wisely to gather all necessary information.

Additional Tips and Information

Who Conducts the Viewing
Knowing who will be conducting the viewing is important. Whether it’s the landlord, a real estate agent, or the current tenant, understanding their role can help you tailor your approach and questions accordingly.

Current Tenant Insights
If the current tenant is present, use this opportunity to gain insight into the property’s pros and cons. They can provide valuable information about living in the property, maintenance issues, and the landlord’s responsiveness.

Maintenance and Repairs
Inspect the property for any visible maintenance issues and ask who is responsible for repairs. This can prevent future disputes and ensure you understand your obligations.

Personal Concerns
Ensure any personal concerns or requirements are communicated politely and constructively. Avoid coming across as a “difficult tenant” but ensure the agent or landlord sees that you are a serious and thoughtful candidate.

Photo and Measurement Tips
Take photos and make notes of dimensions and features during the viewing. This will help you remember important details and make comparisons later.

Avoiding Questions Already Answered
Avoid asking questions that have already been addressed in the property description or during the viewing. Prepare a list of unique questions to ensure you gather all necessary information without redundancy.

To Sum Up

A successful property viewing involves more than just seeing the space. By following these tips and incorporating the hot advice from experts, you’ll navigate the process confidently and improve your chances of finding the perfect rental.

Good luck and happy house hunting!