Are you an expat in the Netherlands? Chances are you're looking for a place to rent. Several agencies can help you find a place. Expat rentals mainly differ in terms of the length of the stay: short stay or long stay. The kind of place you want to rent also makes a great deal of difference, as does the city you're planning to live in. 

Although the population of the Netherlands is relatively dense in every area, there's an important difference between the 'Randstad' region and the rest of the country. The Randstad covers the area between the country's biggest cities: Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht. This is where the most jobs can be found and, consequently, where a big part of the population resides. If you're looking to rent in the Randstad, due to large demand availability of properties is a bit lower and prices are noticeably higher.  

Compared to other countries, real estate is somewhat scarce in the whole country. This shortage is also reflected in the rental market. Expat rentals are definitely available, but be sure to allow for slightly higher rental prices in your budget. Student rooms are available from 300 to 500 euros. Apartments vary from 700 to 1000 euros. A house with a couple of bedrooms will be anywhere between 900 and 1400 euros. The Dutch are known for their good upkeep of houses, so you'll get good value for your money. 

If you're looking for a short stay rental, not every property will be available to you. The standard for any rental is 12 months. However, there are agencies and housing corporations that specialize in short stay rentals. They operate mainly within the country's largest cities. The definition of short stay varies, but in general it can reflect any stay between 3 and 12 months.  

It makes sense that most short stay places come furnished. If you're looking for a longer stay, it depends on your preferences whether you want to have a furnished place or not. Both are available.  

Rental agencies can offer you great advice about type of place to rent and the location. They know what and where the hot spots in a city are and which neighborhoods may not be, err well, the most fancy ones. It's a good idea to check out a few places before you decide where you would like to rent. This way, you get a feel for Dutch properties yourself.