To rent out a house, the key steps generally involved include:
- Check mortgage permission : If there is a mortgage on the house, obtain permission from the mortgage lender. Residential mortgages often contain an owner-occupier clause requiring the owner to live in the house. Renting out usually requires lender approval or refinancing to a rental mortgage, especially in the Netherlands.
- Consult local regulations and permits : Municipalities may require permits to rent out a property, especially for temporary or short-term rentals. Check local laws and whether the property is allowed to be rented out.
- Obtain homeowner association (VvE) approval if applicable : If the house is part of an apartment complex or governed by a homeowners association, their rules or permission may be needed.
- Set the rent price according to the housing valuation system : Rental pricing may be regulated based on a points system measuring property quality, especially in the social housing sector.
- Consider using a rental agency : A Dutch rental agency can simplify finding tenants, setting rent prices, and managing the rental process, which is particularly useful for first-time landlords or those living abroad.
- Prepare the rental contract : Draft rental agreements carefully. Temporary rental contracts typically last up to two years and provide protections for both landlord and tenant.
- Find suitable tenants : Finding reliable tenants who can pay rent on time and take care of the property is important. Using rental agencies can help with background checks.
In summary, to rent out a house, one must secure lender and possibly municipality permission, comply with homeowner association rules if any, understand rent pricing regulations, and consider using professional rental services for tenant screening and management. Temporary contracts can be used for up to two years with proper notification before expiration.
