Properties for Sale and Rent in Amsterdam

If you’re considering buying a house or apartment in Amsterdam, it is advised to first meet with a mortgage advisor at your bank or an agency. This will give you a realistic picture of what you can afford. The choice of property is either freehold (eigen grond) or leasehold (erfpacht). Make sure to read up on housing rights. As a buyer/occupier you will not require a housing permit for an existing property, nor for a new build.

However, if you are not occupying the property you have purchased, you may need a housing permit for your tenant. You are allowed to use your second home (pied-á-terre) for residential purposes, but not for holiday rentals, lodgings for free or (partial) office. In those cases it is considered as a hotel or office, which could lead to a fine.

Estate agents (makelaars) will keep you informed of suitable properties for sale, arrange viewings and offer practical advice. Commission is usually 1 or 2% of the eventual purchase price, plus VAT (BTW). Local papers usually carry a housing (woon) supplement on Wednesdays or Thursdays. Also try special property papers.

Estate agents regularly publish their stock on the major property sites: Funda (in Dutch) and MVA (see above). If you’re already working with a mortgage advisor, ask if they can notify you of new properties (possibly even before they even go on Funda). If you’re interested in a new build or want to look at projects under construction (in Dutch only).