Homestay is a housing option where the landlord or landlady rents out part of the property in which he or she lives. The host and tenant share common facilities such as the kitchen, toilet and bathroom. This year, once again, there will be numerous students coming to Wageningen, so the Municipality of Wageningen and WUR are calling on residents to temporarily rent out vacant rooms to students.
Alderman Eleveld (Housing) from the Municipality of Wageningen: 'Many people have surplus space in their homes. Renting out a room temporarily offers a solution for students looking for somewhere to stay. That's why we are launching a campaign to educate residents about homestay. Hospi Housing is helping us with this. This collaboration will make the process easier for hosts and will protect those looking for a room.
Advantages of homestay
The campaign aims to inform residents of the municipality of Wageningen and surrounding municipalities about the possibilities and advantages of temporarily renting out a room. Homestay offers benefits for the tenant, host and city. The host earns a bit of money. The current housing shortage, increasing loneliness and rising cost of living are making the return of homestay in Wageningen a logical step.
No permit needed for homestay in Wageningen
In the municipality of Wageningen, it is possible to rent out up to two rooms to a maximum of one person per room without a permit. It does not matter whether you own or rent the property. If you are a tenant, however, you will need to seek permission from your housing association.
What if you live in a municipality that borders Wageningen? Then check with your municipal council what is possible and whether you need a permit.
Easier process with Hospi Housing
Hospi Housing is the largest homestay platform in the Netherlands. It started out as a student initiative. Residents who want to rent out a room in their home can register with Hospi Housing. Students and others looking for a room can also sign up at www.hospihousing.com.
Daan Donkers, founder of Hospi Housing: 'Renting out a room in your home is not a simple process. That's why a staff member will always contact you personally. We will work with you to see what the best approach is. We will help you every step of the way, such as with drafting a tenancy contract. Then we will look for a suitable tenant. At the same time, we will make sure that those looking for a room pay a reasonable rent and end up in a safe place."
Sustainable and social solution
This campaign by the Municipality of Wageningen, WUR and Hospi Housing will run for two years. During that time, evaluations will be performed to improve the collaboration. This will enable Wageningen to create a sustainable and social solution to the room shortage.
Want to know more or to register?
Want to know more or need personal advice? Then visit the website of the Municipality of Wageningen or contact Hospi Housing:
