Kamernet Amsterdam: Useful, but be careful

Looking for a room or studio in Amsterdam? Kamernet.nl is one of the most used rental websites among students, expats, and young professionals. It promises direct contact with landlords and roommates, no agents, no middlemen. At least, that’s the promise.

In reality, while Kamernet can help you find a place fast, it’s not without problems. The platform is open and largely unfiltered, meaning that not every listing is what it appears to be.

What Kamernet really is

Kamernet connects private landlords and tenants directly. It’s popular for rooms in shared flats, small studios, or temporary rentals, especially for students and internationals.

You can browse listings for free, but to contact landlords or roommates, you need a paid membership. Prices vary depending on how long you want access (usually 15–30 days).

That membership doesn’t guarantee a room, just the ability to message advertisers.

How Kamernet works

Kamernet lets anyone post a room, studio, or apartment. Users can browse for free, but to respond to listings, you’ll need a paid subscription. The idea is simple: tenants and landlords connect directly, skipping agents and saving money.

But the open setup also means a mix of genuine ads, agency listings, and a few scams.

The hidden truth

Despite being promoted as a “direct contact” platform, many listings on Kamernet are actually posted by rental agents or property managers pretending to be private landlords.

Here’s the issue:

• These agents often don’t mention they represent an agency.
• Once you contact them, they may charge extra “administration” or “service” fees — sometimes equal to one month’s rent.
• In some cases, they’re not legally allowed to charge those fees if they’re acting for the landlord.

This lack of transparency can be confusing for first-time renters, especially expats who don’t yet understand Dutch housing laws.

The good side of Kamernet

• Huge selection of listings in Amsterdam and other Dutch cities
• Ideal for short-term or budget housing
• Easy filters for rent, move-in date, and area
• Often cheaper than renting through agents

It’s especially helpful for people moving to Amsterdam last-minute or for a semester abroad.

The not-so-good side

Kamernet doesn’t vet every listing. Some landlords or “tenants” post fake rooms to collect deposits or personal info. A few common issues include:

• Duplicate or stolen photos from other websites
• “Landlords” who refuse in-person viewings, claiming to be abroad
• Requests for money transfers or deposits before signing a contract
• Listings that vanish right after payment
• Agents active on Kamernet

These scams are rare but real, and they target newcomers unfamiliar with Dutch rental law.

How to stay safe on Kamernet

• Never pay before viewing the property in person or on a verified video call.
• Check the address on Google Maps or Street View.
• Ask for ID and proof of ownership before signing anything.
• Use Kamernet’s report function if something looks suspicious.
• Be cautious with listings that seem too cheap or too good to be true.

Kamernet removes reported scams, but because new listings are added daily, vigilance is your best protection.

Realistic expectations

Finding a room in Amsterdam is tough, even on Kamernet. Listings go fast, competition is high, and landlords receive dozens of replies. Write short, friendly messages, keep your profile active, and don’t rely on just one platform.

Combine Kamernet with trusted sites like Pararius, Funda, or Expat Housing Network to increase your chances.

Final thoughts

Kamernet can be a useful tool, but it’s not magic. Think of it as a marketplace: full of opportunities, but also potential traps. Be alert, verify everything, and don’t let urgency cloud your judgment. The right studio or room is out there, just make sure it’s real before you pay.