Personal Experience: Living in Amsterdam, the city of canals

Nestled within the heart of the Netherlands, Amsterdam pulsates with a unique blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Vladimir's journey unfolds against this backdrop, where his career path and personal journey intertwine with the city's dynamic spirit. This is a story of his journey from Siberia to the heart of Europe, navigating through job changes, city living, and the process of buying their dream apartment in one of the most sought-after cities in Europe. We delve into his and his wife’s Anastasia experience, their challenges, and the ultimate joy of settling into their new home.

A long career journey to the Netherlands

Vladimir's professional journey, deeply rooted in consulting and the metals mining industry, eventually guided him from Novosibirsk through Moscow to Kazakhstan and finally to the Netherlands. His move to the Netherlands was not merely a geographical shift but a pivotal career move, initiated by his company at the time that promised growth and new challenges. His back then future wife Anastasia was already in Amsterdam at the time, making his transition way smoother. Currently, seven years later Vladimir is looking for a new job challenge, interviewing for a new position in the clean energy sector, and his wife is busy developing her own business in the sustainability sector. 

Choosing Amsterdam

Amsterdam, with its cosmopolitan allure and promise of a high quality of life, quickly became more than just a new workplace—it became a place Vladimir and Anastasia could envision as home for the past seven years. Vladimir admitted that his initial expectations about the way of living in the Netherlands were modest. "Before moving here, I didn’t have much experience with day-to-day life in the Netherlands. However, the more I experienced the Dutch way of living, the more I liked it."

Amsterdam’s unique blend of high quality of life, optimal city size, good food, and a culture that resonated with their values quickly won them over. "There’s a stereotype about Amsterdam being all about canals, cannabis, and the Red Light District. But once you move beyond the touristic city center, you find a quiet, green, vibrant place that is still a big city, but feels very much like a village."

He praises the city for its "gezellig" (an untranslatable Dutch word, the closest meaning is “cosy”, “warm”) atmosphere that is very friendly towards the inhabitants. “I travel a lot, and the more I travel around Europe, the more I think that Amsterdam is one of the best cities to live in.” So far, both Vladimir and Anastasia are looking to stay in Amsterdam, as it has become truly a home that they love. 

Living in Amsterdam South

Amsterdam's charm extended far beyond its professional appeal. Vladimir and his wife, Anastasia, eagerly embraced the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings from the outset. Initially, like many expats, Vladimir and Anastasia started by renting an apartment and soon they realized their desire to establish deeper roots in the city. They were living in Amsterdam's bustling Zuidas, a rapidly developing business district in the South of Amsterdam, also known as the 'Financial Mile'. They loved the area and its potential but sought a bigger and more comfortable living space. The choice was also financially pragmatic, focusing on long-term potential rather than immediate appeal. “It was a financial decision: buying an apartment is more cost-effective than continuing to rent. The interest rates are low, it’s deductible from the taxable base, it appreciates in value, and the transaction costs are low."

It was important for the couple that the new apartment was new housing, as it is way more energy efficient, and also because such apartments are way more interesting. “I think new construction after the 2000s is very different from the old housing stock. Each architect comes up with something unique: different apartment layouts and even balcony types.” So, eventually, they opted for a new build-in construction.

The process of choosing their apartment was unique, as Anastasia found the apartment while Vladimir was in China for an executive MBA program. "Stasia called me when I was in China, and described the new building project, and I trusted her judgment. It turned out to be the right choice." Their new apartment, which was just about to be built, was located a kilometer from their previous rental and offered more space and comfort. "Our apartment is now 140 square meters, with three bedrooms, one converted into a home office, two bathrooms, a large living room, and a balcony”. 

Navigating the Process

Purchasing a property in a foreign country can be complex, but Vladimir and Anastasia managed it smoothly, thanks to professional help. They hired a financial advisor who specialized in helping expatriates navigate the Dutch mortgage system. This advisor, recommended by friends, played a crucial role in securing the best mortgage offer and handling the paperwork.

"He charged a flat fee, which was nice because it didn’t depend on the apartment’s price. We compared offers from different banks and chose the one where I already had an account for simplicity," Vladimir explained. "The entire process was efficient. I only had to visit the notary once to sign the papers."

The bidding process for their apartment was relatively straightforward as it was a new build. They placed a bid at the asking price and were offered an apartment one floor below their original choice. Right now it is relatively hard to imagine, as Amsterdam’s housing market has reached its peak – overbidding is super common. 

The couple placed a bid on the apartment in June 2018, signed the contract in September, and moved into their newly completed home in December 2020. Despite some initial construction noise, they are now enjoying their peaceful and well-connected neighborhood.

Financing the Purchase

Vladimir’s mortgage experience was efficient, and facilitated by the financial advisor. They discussed property details, compared bank offers, and chose a bank where Vladimir already had an account. The mortgage rate was about 2%, favorable compared to the higher rates seen post-COVID and during economic fluctuations. 

The documentation required bank statements and employment contracts, ensuring a stable income. The advisor streamlined this process, making it straightforward and convenient for Vladimir and Anastasia.

Settling In: Life in the New Apartment

Life in their new apartment brought both pleasant and challenging surprises. The ongoing construction in the area was initially a nuisance, but the neighborhood gradually transformed into a quiet, green, and convenient place to live. At least until 2027, when the new construction is about to start. 

Now settled in their new home, Vladimir and Anastasia appreciate the amenities and green spaces around them. "We have excellent public transport, with metro, tram, bus, and train stations nearby. The airport is just 10 minutes away by train," Vladimir noted. "There are also two parks and the Amstel River close by, perfect for runs and bike rides." An avid Ironman enthusiast, he finds joy in exploring the city's expansive parks and scenic canal routes, which provide an ideal backdrop for his training regimen.

While the area is a bit busier due to its proximity to the Amsterdam ring road, the noise is well-shielded by surrounding buildings. “The noise from the road doesn't bother us very much because the new buildings shield away the noise quite nicely.”

Advice for Prospective Buyers

For anyone considering buying an apartment in Amsterdam, Vladimir advises being mindful of the current market conditions and mortgage rates."The market is crazy right now, but if you can get a mortgage, it’s worth it. Interest rates may be higher than before, but they are still relatively low, and you get tax exemptions on interest payments. Plus, property values appreciate over time." Despite recent increases, buying remains a sound financial decision as the Netherlands offers favorable mortgage conditions, making homeownership accessible even with a low down payment.

As Vladimir and Anastasia continue to build their lives in Amsterdam, they find themselves deeply ingrained in the city's dynamic fabric, appreciating its ability to inspire and nurture careers. Their story serves as a valuable guide on smart decisions, trust, and adaptability.