Rental prices in the free sector were at the highest level ever recorded in the fourth quarter of 2017. The increase in rent was also substantial in the year 2017. The increase compared to 2016 was 6.4 percent. A rental property in the free sector should now cost an average of €15.25 per square meter per month. Why is it that rental prices continue to rise, and what is the situation in The Hague?
Influence of Amsterdam
The average national rental price in the free sector is quite influenced by the market in Amsterdam. About 20% of all rental properties in that sector are offered in the capital. This does keep the average price high on average, but the price increase over the past year has actually been less in Amsterdam than elsewhere.
Excluding Amsterdam, the average rent price is now €13.22 per m2, making the rent increase in 2017 as high as 6.7%. There are a number of reasons for this increase. Some important ones are:
- Picking up economy
- More expats coming to our country
- Private individuals investing in real estate for rental purposes
- Flex workers are less likely to get a mortgage and therefore have to rent
- There is a shortage of rental housing in the free sector
Trends in renting in the free sector
Due to social changes in our country, there is a clear trend in the free sector of rental housing. Meanwhile, the number of single-person households has reached 3 million and this number is still increasing today. This group of potential renters is generally looking for smaller housing units that are preferably already upholstered or furnished.
After all, convenience serves man. The more expensive urban environments are favored. The Randstad and other interesting living environments therefore continue to grow. Precisely because of this popularity, prices in these areas are also going up. However, the outlying areas, such as Groningen, Friesland, Zeeland and the Achterhoek, are becoming increasingly empty.
Renting out your property
Nowadays it is very advantageous to rent out your house. Are you thinking about renting out your second home or investing in real estate? Then request a free consultation with HouseScout. We know the housing market of The Hague very well and have a wide network of reliable tenants. We take all the worries of management and maintenance of the rental property out of your hands, if you wish.