Published September 16, 2024
So, you’ve decided to go for it and move to Amsterdam? Congratulations! You're in for a treat – beautiful canals, vibrant culture, and a lifestyle like no other. But first, let’s talk about where you’re going to live. Because, let’s be honest, finding an apartment in Amsterdam can be quite the adventure.
If you’re imagining spacious rooms and endless closets, prepare for a reality check. A typical Amsterdam apartment is charmingly compact. Think narrow staircases, multifunctional spaces, and every square meter used efficiently. Expats often find themselves pleasantly surprised by the charmingly compact size of these homes when they first encounter them.
One expat I recently assisted was surprised by the compact size of the fridge and oven, jokingly asking, ‘Is this kitchen set for a dollhouse?' However, in the Netherlands, smaller appliances are common due to efficient use of space in homes and apartments. Yep, Dutch apartments often come with mini-fridges and ovens that look like they belong in a dollhouse. It’s all part of the experience!
In Amsterdam, space is a luxury, so don’t expect a separate laundry room. Washing machines are often tucked under kitchen counters or hidden in closets. Home offices may double as guest bedrooms with the use of a fold out bed. It's all about smart design and making the most of limited space.
Now, if the thought of living in a smaller, older apartment makes you claustrophobic, don’t worry. Amsterdam has seen a boom in newer, more spacious builds. These modern apartments come with better insulation, larger windows, and sometimes even a balcony. They’re still not huge by international standards, but they do offer a bit more breathing room. Note that newer builds are usually a little bit on the pricier side.
Living in an Amsterdam apartment is a unique experience. The city's layout and architecture are unlike anything else, which means you’ll have some adjustments to make. For instance, moving furniture in can be an adventure in itself. Ever seen someone hoisting a sofa through a window with a pulley system? Welcome to Amsterdam!
Moving to Amsterdam or the Netherlands in general, is an exciting adventure, and finding the right apartment or house is a big part of that journey. Whether you end up in a charmingly compact traditional home or a modern, more spacious apartment, you're sure to find something that suits your needs. And remember, every quirky feature and space-saving solution is just part of the charm that makes Amsterdam unique.
So, welcome to your new home. Embrace the quirks, enjoy the ride, and let’s make this the best chapter of your life yet!
As the daughter of a butcher shop owner who invested wisely in real estate, I got my introduction to the housing market at a young age. Growing up, I watched my dad turn his hard-earned money into valuable properties, sparking my interest in real estate. After living abroad in Barcelona for a few years, I realized the challenges expats face when moving to a new country.
That's why I founded Great Expatation. For the past six years, I've been dedicated with my hand-on and efficient approach, to helping highly skilled expats navigate their move to the Netherlands. My goal is to provide a personal, “I take you by the hand” experience, making the transition as smooth as possible.
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