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Real Estate in Amsterdam, Netherlands | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Amsterdam

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 21, 2023

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Amsterdam, Netherlands are the Jordaan, De Pijp, Oud-West, Oud-Zuid, and the Plantage. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Amsterdam is around $500,000 USD, and a nice 3 bedroom home is around $700,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as updated kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. They may also include balconies, terraces, and gardens. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Amsterdam, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreign buyers must obtain a permit from the Dutch government before they can purchase a property. When searching for a home to buy in Amsterdam, expats should consider their budget, desired location, and the type of property they are looking for. They should also research the local real estate market and consult with a real estate agent to help them find the best property for their needs.

How do I find a place to live in Amsterdam?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Only way to do it, df-amsterdam, excellent and friendly friendly people. They don't charge you for every silly question you have," said one person in Amsterdam.

"When looking for a place to live in Amsterdam, it is important to consider your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you are looking for. There are a variety of options available, including apartments, houses, and rooms in shared accommodation. You can search for available properties on websites such as Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who can help you find the perfect place to live. Additionally, you can look for short-term rentals on websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Amsterdam.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Amsterdam?

"Expat homes and apartments in Amsterdam are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments are located in the city centre, close to the canals, and offer stunning views of the city. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furniture and artwork, and feature modern amenities such as high-speed internet and air conditioning. Expats in Amsterdam can also expect to find plenty of storage space, as well as access to public transportation and other amenities," explained one expat living in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

"I live in a lovely canal house in Amsterdam. Most of my colleagues live in Amsterdam Oud Zuid thought. I prefer to be living in the centre since I have no car any way," said one person in Amsterdam.

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What is the average cost of housing in Amsterdam?

If you are thinking about moving to Amsterdam, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"My housing costs are much higher. I pay around 1800 each month now agains around 800 US in Austin," explained one expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

"The cost of housing in Amsterdam is generally quite high. Rent prices for apartments in the city center can range from €1,000 to €2,500 per month, while rent prices for apartments in the suburbs can range from €700 to €1,500 per month. Additionally, the cost of buying a house in Amsterdam is quite high, with prices ranging from €400,000 to €1,000,000," said one person in Amsterdam.

Should I buy or rent a home in Amsterdam?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Amsterdam, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Amsterdam, it is important to consider your lifestyle and financial situation. If you plan to stay in Amsterdam for a long period of time, buying a home may be the best option as it can provide stability and potential financial benefits. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more flexible living situation, renting may be the better choice. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of living in Amsterdam, as it is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Amsterdam should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one member in Amsterdam.

What do I need to know when buying property in Amsterdam?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Amsterdam, they said:

"When buying property in Amsterdam, it is important to research the local market and understand the current trends. It is also important to understand the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership and taxation. It is advisable to seek professional advice from a qualified real estate agent or lawyer to ensure that all legal requirements are met. Additionally, it is important to consider the location of the property and the amenities available in the area. Finally, it is important to consider the cost of living in Amsterdam and the associated costs of owning a property in the city," explained one person living in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Amsterdam?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Amsterdam, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Amsterdam. Non-residents of the Netherlands are allowed to purchase property in the country, however, they must obtain a permit from the Dutch Ministry of Justice before they can do so. Additionally, non-residents must also obtain a mortgage from a Dutch bank in order to purchase a property. Furthermore, non-residents are subject to the same taxes as Dutch citizens when purchasing a property in the Netherlands," explained one foreigner living in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Amsterdam what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Amsterdam typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, toaster, and other small kitchen appliances," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Amsterdam.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Amsterdam:

We asked foreigners in Amsterdam what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Amsterdam by looking online for real estate websites that specialize in the Amsterdam area. They can also search for rental listings on websites such as Airbnb or Craigslist. Additionally, expats can contact local real estate agents who can help them find the perfect home. Finally, expats can also look for housing through expat forums and social media groups, where they can connect with other expats who may have helpful advice or tips," explained one expat in Amsterdam.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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