Rotterdam and its surroundings are very popular these days to international students, young professionals and expats. Everybody want to live around the corner of their university or company, but space is limited as far as student housing is concerned. What to do to gain the student apartment that looks really nice and cosy just in the neighborhood you prefer to live.
Start in time with your search for a student apartment
There’s a lot to do before departing to another country. Most time consuming might even be finding adequate roommates if you want to live in a shared living facilit
Do your research
Online you can find a lot of information about the different types of housing in the Netherlands. Shared or private? Anti-squatting or regular private renting? Furnished versus unfurnished? It’s also a good idea to learn about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in the Netherlands.
Don’t have too high expectations
For the most part, housing in the Netherlands is clean and safe. There is, however, a significant shortage of suitable accommodation. It means that rooms vary in dimensions and more expensive than you may expect.
Involve others
Do you know people living in the Netherlands? Specifically in the city you want to live? Involve them in your search. They can advise you where to look, what neighborhood suits best and most probably can do a viewing too.
Connect with international students
Connectiong with other internationals in the city where you want to live via Facebook groups and you can subscribe to student associations. The students you will meet could introduce you to the landlord. So you are able introducing yourself and check for available properties.
Don’t view a student apartment alone
Two people see more than one. Afterward, you have someone you can discuss the pros and cons of an accommodation with.
Read a rental contract thoroughly
Before signing the contract, make sure you know what is expected from you and what are the conditions. If you do not understand something, ask the landlord for explanation. Sometimes, the university’s international department is willing to help you. They also might know the landlord who you have contact with. Just check if you have the possibility.
Signing the contract and remitting your first payment
You do not need pay anything until you have a signed contract. In the contract is stated what should be paid and when. Very common is a 1 or 2 months’ deposit. Signing a contract and not paying the deposit means you have no deal. What is a signed contract when you do not show up at all? So by paying the deposit you as a tenant show the landlord you are serious and are willing to meet the requirements of the contract. This gives him a good impression the way you act and about your thrustworthiness.
Be aware of scam
If you have doubts about the situation you are in, ask for a video call and ask the landlord for references. He can introduce you to some of his current tenants. Students who are already renting places are able confirming how the landlord is dealing with his tenants and how his properties are maintained. In this way you prevent yourself for scammers who unfortunately target (international) students.
Do you have any tips regarding student housing for other international students?
Drop us an email or Whatsapp message and we will publish the info on our site.
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