Becoming a host in the Netherlands; where to start?

Contributing to a huge societal problem by offering a home to a student who is looking for a room. Do you want to know how you can become a host? Read more about it here.

The concept of homestay is back in the Netherlands. Firstly because we have a huge housing crisis and secondly because as a society we more often dedicate ourselves to finding sustainable solutions to societal issues..

In 2022, 26.500 students had difficulties finding a room. As a host, you offer a spare room in your home to a student that is desperately looking for a room. Great concept, right?! At Hospi Housing, we make the perfect match between hosts and students looking for a room.

What requirements must a host meet?

Before you become a host you probably want to know what is required from your side. Good news: almost everyone can sign up to become a host. There are only a few requirements you have to meet. You have to be at least 18 years old, and speak Dutch and/or English. Whether you live alone, with a partner or with children: your living situation doesn’t matter if you decide to start hosting.

How much time does it cost to be a host?

Spending time with your new roommate is fun, but it is not an obligation. You decide how much time you want to spend together. However, for good expectation management we ask you to make clear agreements with the student beforehand.

Becoming a host does not take a lot of time. But since most students are new in the city, we hope you can help them get around. It would be helpful if you could point out the closest supermarket, bus stop, shops, ATM, etc. Of course it would be great if you could show them more of the city or the Netherlands, or if you could make a typical Dutch stamppot together. But again, this is completely up to you.

In addition, you decide what kind of relationship you want with your tenant. Whether you become friends or keep it more formal is completely up to you. We do find it important that the host and the student have a good relationship. If this unexpectedly isn’t the case, there are options for both host and student to end the contract.

I do value my privacy, how does that work?

To share your home with someone you haven’t met before can be a big step. We help you draft house rules that will help to set the right expectations. Also, we will provide you with free contract templates once you find a tenant. From our experiences with hosts and students this really helps to find a right balance between privacy and fun.

It is included in the contract that a student can not enter the hosts’ room without asking. Vice versa it works the same. In order to prevent uncomfortable situations, it is important to discuss this with your new tenant beforehand.

I want to become host

In case you are still doubting to become a super awesome host and help us to solve a huge societal problem, we’re here to help you. Do you have more questions regarding becoming a host, leave your mail address here and receive the Hospi Housing manual where you can find everything about renting out a room in your house.

Find here all answers to frequently asked questions about homestay. Or contact us directly. Are you curious about one of the successful Hospi Housing stories, read the story of Eva, a 21 year old conservatory student from Spain, who lives with a local family.