You might have heard already that we’re currently dealing with a very tense rental market. The reason for this is that there is more demand for rental properties than supply in the Netherlands. Resulting in selection processes to even get to view properties and a critical landlord when choosing from all the offers. Writing an appealing application letter to the landlord is a simple (and free) way to stand out as an expat to an agent and the landlord.

Why write an application letter as an expat?

A property is usually one of the biggest assets a person can own, so if someone decides to rent out their property they naturally want to know who they are dealing with. As an expat, it's important to properly introduce yourself to your possible new landlord. Realtors manage the viewings and your application letter will be the first moment that they will ‘meet’ you (and your family). This gives you the opportunity to provide them with a positive first impression, showcasing your personality and reliability.

Secondly, a well-written letter will contribute to establishing trust between you and the landlord as the landlord will select the final candidate. In the letter you can show them you will be a responsible and considerate next tenant. You can do this by highlighting your qualities and emphasizing your strengths such as a steady income and respectful behavior, which can set you apart from other applicants. 

As well, an application letter is the perfect opportunity to add a personal touch: a personal touch that may resonate with landlords, making them more likely to choose you as a tenant. Not to forget that if you have any potential situations that make it less likely to be selected, like for example a salary on the lower side or any pets, you can address these proactively and explain your situation.

Last but not least, adding an application letter to your offer will show the landlord your genuine interest in their property. To receive the above goals with your application letter it’s important that you adapt the letter to the property and include a complete overview of yourself (and your family).

What should my application letter look like?

You want your application letter to the landlord to be personal, but still professional, positive and concise. Limit your introduction to a maximum of two pages and make sure to save it as a PDF file. You can consider including the following elements for writing your application letter:

• Introduction: Start with a brief introduction of yourself (and your family) and make sure to include your name(s), your age(s), your job title, Dutch employer and the years with the company.
• Specify your letter to the property: Clearly state your interest in the rental property and why exactly this property would be perfect for you (e.g., close to work, close to the children’s school, you love the area).
• Qualifications: This is your opportunity to show why you would make a reliable tenant. (e.g., steady employment and income, previous positive rental experiences or references.)
• Personal Touch: Share a bit about yourself that demonstrates your character, such as hobbies, interests or values. If you have any pets make sure to include their sizes, ages and emphasize that you are a responsible pet owner.
• Commitment to care for the property: Assure the landlord that you will treat the property with respect and maintain it well.
• Closing: Express your openness to answer any questions or provide further information. Finally end with a polite thank you and express your hope for a positive response.

Important: to make it more personal and to really give a good impression of yourself (and your family) make sure to include some nice photos. As well you could consider including a link to your LinkedIn profile.

When to hand in your application letter?

Usually, you hand in your application letter along with your offer. Want to really impress the landlord? If at the end of a viewing you’re one hundred percent sure you want to put in an offer, handing in a hard copy of your offer and your application letter will leave them no other option than to really notice you. Make sure to prepare the documents before you get to a viewing. However, as it’s getting harder to secure a property you might want to hand in your application letter already when requesting a viewing. As properties nowadays get so many applications, it might convince the realtor to select you as a viewer. If the letter wasn’t necessary to secure a viewing spot, then add it along with your offer.

Remember: your application letter is your time to shine so you can really stand out to the landlord. Think from the perspective of a landlord and make sure to provide a complete overview of your situation. Good luck!