Step 8: Attend viewings

So you found somewhere that you like and they have reacted positively to your application? The next step should be a viewing or a hospiteeravond (hospitality evening). During viewings, keep in mind the following questions so you have a good idea of what you are signing up for:

Typical Questions to Answer

• When can I move in?

Due to the competitive nature of the housing market in Eindhoven at the moment, places are often made available on short notice, or one month before the apartment or room is open for someone to move in. In this sense, it’s good to think about being able to move to the Netherlands early as the supply of housing late in the summer is going to be short. Check out the following section on Living in Eindhoven for advice on settling in.

• What is the maximum length of stay?

Keep an eye on the agreement and know your rights as a tenant. A good description of the different forms of tenancy agreement can be found here - Rented housing | Housing | Government.nl.

• Is there a washing machine or do I need to use a laundromat?

• Are the furnishings (bed, tables, lighting etc.) going to be in the house when I rent it?

• Is this place safe? Functioning doors, smoke alarm etc. Can the landlord fix those things that are not functioning before I arrive?

Stay vigilant regarding the fundamental safety elements of any home you rent including smoke and fire alarms, access points and doors.

• Are there any residual issues? Mold, broken fixtures, holes in walls. Can the landlord fix those things that are not functioning before I arrive?

Check for signs of issues that could get progressively worse over time.
Be particularly careful with anything that could become a health issue. You should address these with the landlord and find out when these will be fixed.

• How is trash managed? Where are the recycling services?

• On what day of the month is rent paid? Can I set up a direct debit for this amount?

• What can I expect in terms of costs on top of the rent?

Energy prices are fluctuating in the Netherlands, and residents have seen their energy bills greatly increase. Feel free to ask your landlord or housemates what you can expect from the bills for gas and electricity (paid monthly), and water and waste (paid periodically throughout the year). *

• How are bills managed? Do I have to pay Gas, Water, Electricity, Internet and Waste charges myself?

Be aware that you may need to have a Dutch bank account to pay some of these bills.

• Will I deal with the landlord directly in the future, or do an agency manage the property?

/// Hospitality Evening

A hospiteeravond is an introductory evening where you make an impression to your future housemates and/or landlord. This might consist of multiple applicants, and the housemates will base their decision on their impressions you make. Check out the list hosted by Smart Student Deals for tips on how to stand out in a hospiteeravond.