Responding Quickly to a Rental Property: Why It Matters and How to Do It

3 - 4 minutes ⏱️ read

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Searching for a rental home in the Netherlands?

Then you already know: speed is everything. In popular cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague, affordable rentals can disappear within the hour.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • Why speed is essential in the Dutch rental market
  • How fast you actually need to respond
  • How to prepare so you can act instantly when a property goes live

Why You Need to Respond Fast

✅ Homes Go Quickly

In cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht, homes are often rented out within 24 hours.
Studios or apartments under €1,200? Sometimes gone within hours.

According to Pararius, homes in Amsterdam were listed for an average of just 14 days (Q1 2023) — and many are removed long before that.

✅ First Response Often Wins

Landlords can receive dozens of replies per day. Many select tenants based on who responds first — and sends all documents up front.

✅ Make a Reliable Impression

A quick, clear message with your documents shows that you’re serious, prepared, and easy to work with.

How Fast Do You Need to Be?

Response Time: Within 15 minutes 🔥
Very high; you’re likely in the first selection

Response Time: Within 1 hour ✅
Good chance; often still considered

Response Time: After 2 hours
Usually too late; property may already be taken ⚠️

Note: These are averages. In hot neighbourhoods or for well-priced homes, it can go even faster.

How to Respond Quickly to a Rental Listing

1. Prepare Your Documents in Advance

Have these saved and ready to go (e.g., in Google Drive):

  • Copy of your ID or passport
  • Proof of income or recent payslips
  • Employer reference (if applicable)
  • Student certificate or DUO details (if you’re a student)
  • Landlord reference (optional)

💡 Combine all files into one PDF for speed.

2. Use Rental Platforms with Notifications

Register with platforms like:

  • Pararius
  • Funda Huur
  • Kamernet (for rooms)

Set up push notifications or email alerts based on your preferences (location, price, type). That way, you’ll know the moment something new is listed.

Want to get alerts from over 1,000 Dutch rental sites?
Use an aggregator tool like Stekkies.

3. Write a Template Message

Here’s an example you can quickly personalise:

Dear landlord,
My name is [Name], I’m [age], and I work as a [job] / study at [school]. I’m looking for a rental home from [date] and this property really appeals to me.
I have all documents ready and I’m flexible for a viewing.
Kind regards,
[Name]
[Phone number]
[Email address]

💡 Add a personal touch for each property to stand out.

4. Check Listings at Set Times

  • Morning: 08:00–09:00
  • Midday: Around lunchtime
  • Evening: 18:00–21:00

New listings often go up early or at the end of the day. A daily routine helps you catch new opportunities — but in high-demand areas, a notification tool like Stekkies is essential.

5. Call If You Can

If a phone number is listed, calling is often faster and more effective than emailing. You can ask directly if viewings are still possible.

Common Mistakes When Responding

❌ Only sending “I’m interested”
→ Always include basic info about yourself and your situation.

❌ Not having documents ready
→ Keep a ready-to-go folder prepared.

❌ Not checking for new listings
→ Use alerts and notifications to stay updated.

❌ Leaving out contact details
→ Always include your email and phone number in messages.

Stekkies: The Fastest App for Rentals in the Netherlands

If speed matters — use the fastest tool available. Independent tests show that Stekkies is the fastest app for finding rentals in the Netherlands.

Why Stekkies Is Faster:

  • Scans over 1,000 rental sites every minute
  • Refreshes listings more often than other apps
  • Sends notifications within 12 seconds on average
  • Often 15–30 minutes faster than other services (Reddit speed test)

For renters who don’t want to miss a chance, speed is key. Stekkies combines broad coverage with lightning-fast alerts, giving you a real advantage.

Summary: How to Land a Rental Faster

  • Prepare your documents and template messages
  • Respond within 15 minutes
  • Use trusted platforms with alerts (like Stekkies)
  • Call when possible; it sets you apart
  • Be friendly, clear, and reliable

Sources

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