Need an audit opinion as a self-employed person for rental property?

Are you self-employed and looking to rent a property? Then you will soon find out that it is just a bit more complicated than for someone in salaried employment. This is because many estate agents or landlords ask for income security, something that, as a self-employed person, you cannot demonstrate as standard with a payslip. A frequently requested solution is then the accountant's statement. In this blog, you will read what exactly that is, why it is important and how you can arrange one as a self-employed person.

Why is hiring as a self-employed person more difficult?

If you run a sole trader or work as a freelancer, you have to deal with fluctuating income. For an estate agent or landlord, this can feel uncertain. Where someone in salaried employment shows a permanent contract and payslip, you have to show with other documents that your rent is financially viable. The solution? A clear and official statement of your financial situation, often in the form of an accountant's statement.

What is an accountant's statement?

An auditor's statement is an official document prepared by an accountant. In it, he or she confirms that your annual figures are correct and that you have sufficient income to pay for a rental property, for example. For many estate agents, this is a crucial document in the rental process to self-employed people.

Sometimes they specifically ask for a compilation statement: a form of accountant's statement where the accountant compiles the annual accounts based on your records, without in-depth research. So it is not an audit opinion, but it does provide professional insight into your financial situation.

When do you need such a statement?

Not every estate agent or housing association asks for it, but for private landlords or higher-end rental properties, it is increasingly demanded as a condition. Especially if you are self-employed with no long-term rental or income history. Even when renting without a deposit or guarantor, an accountant's certificate can strengthen your position as a tenant.

How do you arrange for an accountant's statement?

If you already have an accountant taking care of your bookkeeping, this is usually easily arranged. You simply ask for an audit opinion based on your recent annual figures. Don't have an accountant yet? Then it is wise to engage one, because estate agents only accept statements from certified accountants, not an administrative office or bookkeeper.

Beware: a composition statement costs money. Expect around €500 to €2000, depending on the complexity of your administration.

Tips for a smooth hiring process as a self-employed person

- Keep clear records. Neat bookkeeping makes the accountant's job easier and cheaper.

- Have your annual accounts drawn up on time. Especially if you want to rent a property soon.

- Also keep bank statements and tax returns. Some estate agents want multiple proofs of income.

- Be transparent towards the estate agent. Explain immediately that you are self-employed and proactively offer your statement yourself.

Invest in certainty

An accountant statement zzp rental property may not be compulsory, but it is incredibly useful. It shows that you have your affairs in order and inspires confidence in landlords. Think of it as an investment in your chances of getting a fine rental property. And the good news? If your records are in order, you will often have this declaration in place within a few days.

Want to rent carefree as a self-employed person? Then start preparing your figures now.