What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Consider the characteristics of the neighborhood, type of dwelling you desire (house, apartment, etc.), traffic in the area (for security and noise) and parking possibilities.  Also note the proximity to public transport, schools, work, shops, cinemas, churches and other places you'll need to visit on a regular basis.
↑ Top

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

  • Hillegersberg - Considered Rotterdam's jewel, this is a leafy suburb on the northeast edge of the city. Home to several international schools, the area escaped wartime bombing, leaving the old village center and elegant residential streets intact. As Hillegersberg is just a 15-minute drive from the center of Rotterdam, homes in this area are sought after by the Dutch and expats alike. This popularity makes it quite expensive.
  • Kop van Zuid - Favored by young expats, this is a trendy new development right in the middle of the harbor, directly across from the city center. Like the London docklands, it is a mix of renovated old warehouses and smaller, newer housing and apartments. Up-market urban prices apply.
  • Kralingen - Appeals to many young singles and dual-income/no-kids couples. Ten to 15 minutes east of the city center, Kralingen has multi-million euro mansions alongside students’ digs and council housing. Near a lovely lake and woods, the area has a very international feel and a huge variety of affordable and up-market housing available.
  • Other suburbs - The suburbs of Schiebroek and newer Prinsenland and Ommoord are becoming favored areas. For those looking to rent rather than buy, Ommoord is an area where it is relatively easy to find family accommodation at reasonable prices.

↑ Top

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Rent.
↑ Top

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?
Generally, one month’s commission and a one- to three-months’ deposit has to be paid, depending on the estate agent and owner.
↑ Top

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
Utilities are excluded in the rent of unfurnished houses. However, in the rent of fully furnished houses, the utilities are generally included.
↑ Top

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
Always lock your bicycle if you have one. Do not leave valuable items in the car.

The areas around Central Station and Rotterdam South might be ones to avoid during the night when you are alone.
↑ Top

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
The electric current is AC 220 - 240 volts. Frequency (Hz) is 50. Electrical appliances from the UK are compatible. However, appliances from the US (110 volts/60Hz) need step-down transformers. For most appliances from EU countries, a simple adaptor should work for everything except the heavier appliances. These may require transformers as well.

Plug shape is the standard two-pinned type. Plug adapters can be bought in most electrical shops.
↑ Top

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
For most expats, rentals available from government housing corporations are not an option. Most expat rental properties are owned and rented on a private basis (vrije sector, estate agents or landlords).
↑ Top

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.