Real Estate in Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Last updated on Aug 14, 2024
Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Rotterdam, Netherlands are Kralingen, Hillegersberg, and Blijdorp. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Rotterdam is around $400,000 USD, and a nice 3 bedroom home is around $500,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as central heating, double glazing, and a modern kitchen. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Rotterdam. An expat looking to buy a home in Rotterdam should start by researching the different neighborhoods and their amenities. They should also consider their budget and look for properties that fit their needs. It is also important to research the local real estate market and find a reputable real estate agent to help with the process.
How do I find a place to live in Rotterdam?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Rotterdam is to use online rental websites such as Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Rotterdam and filter your search by location, price, and amenities. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Rotterdam area to help you find a place to live. You can also look for rental postings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Finally, you can attend local events such as open houses and apartment tours to find a place to live in Rotterdam," said one person in Rotterdam.
"My husband was lucky enough to bump into another colleague who was relocating to Australia at the time we needed a house. Hey presto, we had a house. We shipped all our furnitre and possessions over and lived at IKEA for the first 6 monts. He had a look around at the suburbs when he came ahead of our move and decided on this one as it was quiet with lots of trees," said one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Rotterdam?
"Expat homes and apartments in Rotterdam are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments are located in the city center, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Many of the homes and apartments also feature balconies or terraces, providing a great view of the city. Expats in Rotterdam can also find homes and apartments in the suburbs, which offer more space and a quieter atmosphere," said one person in Rotterdam.
"We live in a 3 story terraced house in quiet neighbourhood. This seems to be quite typical for the expats I know," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Rotterdam.
What is the average cost of housing in Rotterdam?
If you are thinking about moving to Rotterdam, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Rotterdam is generally quite high. Prices for apartments and houses vary depending on the size, location, and amenities, but the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,200 per month. Outside of the city center, prices can be lower, but still remain relatively high," remarked one member in Rotterdam.
Should I buy or rent a home in Rotterdam?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Rotterdam, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Whether to buy or rent a home in Rotterdam depends on a variety of factors. Buying a home in Rotterdam can be a great investment, as the city is growing in popularity and real estate prices are on the rise. However, it is important to consider the cost of the home, the cost of maintenance, and the availability of financing. Renting a home in Rotterdam can be a more affordable option, as it does not require a large down payment or long-term commitment. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility, as it allows you to move more easily if your circumstances change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Rotterdam should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," explained one expat living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
What do I need to know when buying property in Rotterdam?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Rotterdam, they said:
"1. It is important to research the area you are interested in buying property in, to ensure it is the right fit for you. 2. Make sure to get a professional surveyor to inspect the property before you buy it, to ensure there are no hidden problems. 3. Consider the cost of living in Rotterdam, as it is one of the most expensive cities in the Netherlands. 4. Make sure to get a lawyer to review any contracts before signing them, to ensure you are protected. 5. Be aware of the taxes and fees associated with buying property in Rotterdam, as they can be quite high. 6. Consider the rental market in Rotterdam, as it can be a great way to make money from your property. 7. Make sure to research the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership in Rotterdam, to ensure you are compliant," wrote one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Rotterdam?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Rotterdam, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Rotterdam. 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, they must also obtain a residence permit if they plan to live in the Netherlands. The process of obtaining these permits can be lengthy and complicated, so it is important to seek professional advice before attempting to purchase property in Rotterdam," explained one person living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Rotterdam 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:
"In a rental property in Rotterdam, tenants can typically expect to find a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, toaster, and other small kitchen appliances," explained one expat in Rotterdam.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Rotterdam:
We asked foreigners in Rotterdam 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 searching for homes in Rotterdam can look online for listings on real estate websites, such as Funda, Pararius, and Jaap.nl. They can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find homes in the area. Additionally, expats can search for rental listings on websites such as Kamernet and Easy Expat. Finally, expats can join local expat groups and forums to ask for advice and recommendations from other expats who have already found homes in Rotterdam," explained one expat in Rotterdam.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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