Watch out: the housing market of Amsterdam has also some negative sides
Overcharging / money for the key
Some landlords or (unlicensed) housing agents can charge you a fee for the key (sleutelgeld in Dutch). This is illegal and you should always refuse to pay (and you have to check once again if the apartment itself is legal or not...). Check also our article about illegal renting.
Deposit
It is normal for a furnished apartment / house in Amsterdam that the deposit is twice the rental price per month. For an unfurnished / semi-furnished apartment in Amsterdam you probably have to pay once the rental price per month as a deposit. Never pay more than 3 months deposit, that's just plain ridiculous!
Contract fees
Housing agents can charge you additional for making up contracts (this happens mostly with unlicensed housing agents), this is unnecessary and you should not pay this fee. Normally a housing agent charges you one month rent excluding VAT for his services (including making up the contract) and this should be sufficient.
Exclusive renting / minor repairs
Make sure it’s clear for you and the landlord who pays what. This includes all the taxes, utilities, minor repairs, etcetera. When the housing agent makes up the checklist or the contract ask him if he can walk you through these details.
Paying rent in cash
If the landlord or housing agent ask you to pay your rent in cash, you’ll know for certain that there is something strange about the housing deal. Most of the time the landlord is ducking taxes which is illegal. If you’re paying by bank transfer you’re also better protected if there can become any confusions about the rent.
