The Amsterdam housing market: the point system and illegal renting
The housing market in Amsterdam
The city council of Amsterdam has made a difference between properties who should be available for the inhabitants with a low income and properties for people of a high income. And to work out this ‘social structure’ the city council of Amsterdam has made up some odd regulations.
The Point System
Every house in Amsterdam scores points, you’ll receive points per square meter and for additional special spaces as a shower, bath, balcony etc. The rule of thumb is as following: if you have an apartment which measures less than 90 square meter, chances are big it is only available for people who ‘rent socially’, so for the low income classes. If you want to rent something via the social structure the city council will put you on a waiting list and if you want to rent something in the center of Amsterdam you’ll be put on that list for over 10 years before getting such apartment. The city council determines the rent price of properties which are in the “social structure” as well. So expats can only rent properties which are in the “free zone”, and the apartments offered in the “free zone” are privately owned and landlords are able to ask any price they want. Apartments in the “free zone” often start at a rental price of 1.200 euros per month: so renting an apartment in Amsterdam is not that cheap.
Be aware of illegal renting in Amsterdam!
If you rent an apartment which measures less than 90 square meter, be aware! You’ll probably end up renting it illegally, if you get caught they will put you immediately on the street and most of the time you have to pay a fine as well... So for expats it’s not really advisable to take that risk. To avoid this risk get in touch with a licensed housing agent.
