Accommodation in Eindhoven

Expats will find a range of high-quality modern accommodation in Eindhoven. Although housing may be smaller than some expats are used to, it’s generally clean and well maintained.

When searching for accommodation in Eindhoven, expats should consider access to public transport and the proximity to work and schools. Nevertheless, most places, especially within the city centre, are within easy walking distance.

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Types of accommodation in Eindhoven

Both social and private housing is available for rental in Eindhoven. Social housing comes at subsidised rates; however, expats must first join a housing queue and meet specific criteria. The waiting lists are typically long, so the quickest and best bet is to rent privately.

Apartments

Apartments are the most common property type in Eindhoven, particularly in the inner city. Young professionals and students usually look for flats in Eindhoven. Newcomers should note that, as with other major Dutch cities, the more centrally located the accommodation, the higher the rental price.

Rooms

Expats on a budget can save by renting a room, often in a shared apartment with other flatmates. This will substantially reduce their cost of living and is a popular way in which new arrivals, particularly students, can secure affordable housing.

Houses

Standalone, semi-detached and terraced houses are also available on the property market. The smaller villages surrounding Eindhoven generally offer more spacious living with detached homes that have gardens and are popular with expat families.

Furnished vs. unfurnished

Both furnished (gemeubileerd) and unfurnished (kaal) properties are on the market. Unfurnished options normally don’t have carpets or light fittings, but they may have some basic appliances, such as a stove. Expats staying in Eindhoven long-term frequently prefer this option as they will have greater freedom in decorating the space.

New arrivals who only plan to stay a few months tend to opt for furnished accommodation, which also comes at a higher price. It's also worth establishing a detailed itinerary of all the furniture when signing a lease agreement.

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Finding accommodation in Eindhoven

Expats can search for accommodation using online property portals. Websites such as IamExpat Media, Engel & Völkers and Pararius will be great resources when househunting in Eindhoven. These listings also alert prospective tenants to the rental costs they can expect in the different areas and suburbs of the city.

If expats don't speak Dutch, the language barrier can be a problem, and it's usually best to hire a real estate agent (makelaar). Real estate professionals may also have access to listings that are not officially on the housing market yet, so expats may score a better deal by going this route.

Many prospective expats reach out through social media networks when looking for accommodation in Eindhoven. Posting a question on an expat forum or group may provide direct access to landlords looking for tenants. Social media is especially useful for young house hunters looking to rent a room and share an apartment.

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Renting accommodation in Eindhoven

When making a rental application in Eindhoven, prospective tenants must typically provide their citizen service number, known as a BSN (burgerservicenummer). Landlords may also request an expat's employment contract if they are working in Eindhoven, or details about their studies if they are students.

We recommend that expats read and understand the rental terms and conditions, as well as any hidden costs. For example, expats using the services of a real estate agent should consider that the fee is usually the equivalent of one month’s rent.

Leases

Expats renting in Eindhoven will likely sign a fixed-period lease valid for one year, though these may also be valid for six months. Alternatively, expats may also encounter flexible leases, which are open-ended and have no predetermined termination date.

While verbal agreements are legally viable in the Netherlands, we highly recommend signing a legal contract to avoid any potential issues or disagreements later on.

Deposits

Most landlords in Eindhoven expect one to three months' rent as a deposit, along with the first month of rent to be paid upfront.

Utilities

Utilities are generally for the tenant's expense and must be paid in addition to rent.