Templates: How to Write the Perfect Message to Dutch Landlords and Roommates

In the Dutch housing market, landlords and student houses can receive over 100 messages in the first hour of posting an ad. If your message is just "Is this still available?", it will be ignored.

To get a viewing, you need to provide a complete picture of who you are and why you are a reliable tenant.

1. The Anatomy of a Perfect Message

Every message you send should include these five elements:

1. Personal Introduction: Name, age, nationality, and what you are studying.
2. Financial Reliability: Mention that you have a scholarship, a part-time job, or a parental guarantor.
3. Lifestyle Fit: Are you social? Quiet? Clean? Do you cook?
4. A Hook: Mention something specific from their ad (e.g., "I saw you have a cat; I grew up with three!").
5. Call to Action: Ask for a (video) viewing and provide your availability.

2. Template 1: The "Social Student House"

Use this for Kamernet or Facebook groups where you will be living with other students. The tone should be friendly and informal.

"Hi [Name/House Name]!

I just saw your listing for the room in [Neighborhood] and it sounds like a great place! My name is [Your Name], I'm [Age] years old and I'm moving from [Country] to start my [Master's/Bachelor's] in [Subject] at [University].

I’m a social person who enjoys [Hobby 1] and [Hobby 2], but I also value my study time and a clean living space. I’ve lived in shared houses before, so I know the importance of keeping the kitchen tidy and respecting others' privacy.

I noticed you mentioned that you guys enjoy [mention something from ad, e.g., weekly dinners]. That sounds right up my alley!

I am available for a viewing on [Date] or we could do a quick WhatsApp video call if you prefer. Hope to hear from you!

Best, [Your Name]"

3. Template 2: The "Professional Landlord"

Use this for Pararius or agencies when applying for a studio or private apartment. The tone should be professional and focused on reliability.

"Dear [Landlord/Agency Name],

My name is [Your Name] and I would like to express my interest in the apartment located at [Address].

I am a [Nationality] student/professional who will be joining [University/Company] as a [Student/Role] starting in [Month]. I am a non-smoker, I do not have pets, and I am looking for a quiet and long-term residence.

My monthly income is [Amount] and I have a guarantor who can provide all necessary documentation. I am prepared to provide proof of enrollment and a copy of my ID immediately.

Could you please let me know when a viewing would be possible? I am available on [Date/Time].

Kind regards, [Your Name] [Phone Number]"

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too brief: "I want the room" is an instant delete.
• Grammar issues: Use a tool like Grammarly. If the landlord can't understand you, they won't invite you.
• Generic messages: If you don't mention the city or the specific house, they know you're just spamming.
• Asking about registration later: Always assume registration is possible unless the ad says otherwise. Don't waste your first message asking questions; provide answers first.