Step 7: Applications, Follow Ups and Viewings

Applications

You might want to send slightly different things to a housing agency than you would to a group of housemates looking to fill a room.

Applications to a Company

For housing and agencies platforms, you can use the template below to send a nice email or message to the landlords. Make sure to have your notifications on so you do not miss any replies.

As much as possible, try to send it directly to the company, either through their own website or by e-mail. Please note, it is not recommended to contact an agency through the contact form on the website of an aggregator such as Pararius (see the list in Step 6 above).

Often, housing agencies will respond with a sheet of information that you need to fill out, including formal information about you. They may ask, for example, if you have pets, a family and where you live now. They may also ask you about your income. Sometimes, there is an option to arrange a guarantor, however this is not always possible. You will need to clear this with the agency, so it is good to make sure you have a clear line of communication with them from the outset.

It is recommended that you create a direct line of contact by phone with agents directly as it is common that these companies are so busy that they cannot respond to all mails. If you can build a relationship with a housing agent this can also be a valuable resource as they can bring your applications forward to landlords on housing that has just entered the marketplace.

###Template - Applications to a Company

Dear Mr/Ms ______,

My name is ________________ and I am a student at Design Academy Eindhoven. I am very interested in the accommodation you posted in ________________. I would like to ask whether it is available, and whether we could set up a viewing some time soon!

About myself, I am ____________________. My hobbies are ______________.

Looking forward to your reply,

___________________.

Applications to a Private Individual

It’s important to introduce yourself and put yourself out there. Your introduction can vary depending on the platform. This introduction can be posted as an “advertisement” on Facebook groups or be sent as a reply to accommodation listings.

For Facebook groups, make sure to leave a comment notifying the posters that you have sent a private message.

Your profile (whether on Facebook or other housing platforms) should be as complete as possible, so you leave a good impression. Include a profile photo of yourself as well for extra credibility.

Feel free to experiment and get creative with form on Design Academy Student Affairs – but be aware that you will need to take a more formal approach when talking with an agency or landlord. This said, it’s always important to show your personality and highlight what makes you a good tenant, so embrace your qualities!

###Template - Applications to a Private Individual

Hi! My name is ____________________, I am _____ years old and I am a student at Design Academy Eindhoven.

I am looking for an accommodation in Eindhoven with a radius of ______ (km). My ideal accommodation is a ________ and with at least ______ m2 . I have a budget of ______.

About myself, I am ____________________. My hobbies are ______________.

If you know of anything that fits my criteria, please reach out to me via ___________.

Thank you!

Time Saving and Automation

Use the templates above in and keep a copy of them that can save time during your search.

Where possible, on Facebook or on websites, set up notifications and alerts to make sure you find out as soon as there is a new room posted.

Keep in mind that that housing is in short supply, so the advised approach is to apply for more than one place at a time. Keep checking websites regularly, put your best foot forward and don’t be disheartened if the perfect spot passes you by.

Documents

Some accommodations require documents, such as income statements (from guarantors) or personal identification documents. Make sure you have access to these documents if they are relevant.

Viewings

So you found somewhere that you like and they have reacted positively to your application? The next step should be a viewing or a hospiteeravond (see below for more). During viewings, keep in mind the following questions so you have a good idea of what you are signing up for:

When can I move in?

*Due to the competitive nature of the housing market in Eindhoven at the moment, places are often made available on short notice, or one month before the apartment or room is open for someone to move in. In this sense, it’s good to think about being able to move to the Netherlands early as the supply of housing late in the summer is going to be short. Check out the following section on Living in Eindhoven for advice on settling in.*

What is the maximum length of stay?

*Keep an eye on the agreement and know your rights as a tenant. A good description of the different forms of tenancy agreement can be found on [the Government website here.]( https://www.government.nl/topics/housing/rented-housing)*

Is there a washing machine or do I need to use a laundromat?

Are the furnishings (bed, tables, lighting etc.) going to be in the house when I rent it?

Is this place safe? Functioning doors, smoke alarm etc. Can the landlord fix those things that are not functioning before I arrive?

*Stay vigilant regarding the fundamental safety elements of any home you rent including smoke and fire alarms, access points and doors. *

Are there any residual issues? Mold, broken fixtures, holes in walls. Can the landlord fix those things that are not functioning before I arrive?

*Check for signs of issues that could get progressively worse over time. Be particularly careful with anything that could become a health issue. You should address these with the landlord and find out when these will be fixed. *

How is trash managed? Where are the recycling services?

On what day of the month is rent paid? Can I set up a direct debit for this amount?

What can I expect in terms of costs on top of the rent?

*Energy prices are fluctuating in the Netherlands, and residents have seen their energy bills greatly increase. Feel free to ask your landlord or housemates what you can expect from the bills for gas and electricity (paid monthly), and water and waste (paid periodically throughout the year). *

How are bills managed? Do I have to pay Gas, Water, Electricity, Internet and Waste charges myself?

*Be aware that you may need to have a Dutch bank account to pay some of these bills. *

Will I deal with the landlord directly in the future, or do an agency manage the property?

Hospitality Evening

A hospiteeravond, or hospitality evening, is an introductory evening where you make an impression to your future housemates and/or landlord. This might consist of multiple applicants, and the housemates will base their decision on their impressions you make. Check out the list hosted [by Smart Student Deals](https://www.smartstudentdeals.nl/blog/post/hospiteren.html) for tips on how to stand out in a hospiteeravond.