Buying your first home in the Netherlands can feel exciting, and a little overwhelming, especially if you’ve just moved here. As an expat, you may be dealing with a new housing market, unfamiliar mortgage rules, and a different legal process. At Your Dutch Home, we specialise in guiding expats step-by-step so that buying your first property becomes a smooth, stress-free experience.
1. Understand the Dutch housing market
The Dutch housing market moves quickly, especially in popular cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Properties are often sold within days, sometimes even before the first viewing. As a first-time buyer, it’s important to:
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Set a realistic budget before you start viewing.
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Be ready to make a quick, well-informed decision.
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Have a buying agent (aankoopmakelaar) on your side who knows the market.
2. Know your budget & mortgage options
In the Netherlands, you can often finance up to 100% of a property’s market value with a mortgage. However:
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You’ll still need your own savings for additional costs like taxes, notary fees, and agent fees (usually around 4–6% of the purchase price).
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If you have an international income or work contract, a mortgage specialist familiar with expat cases is essential.
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Consider the NHG (National Mortgage Guarantee) if your budget allows – it offers extra security and often lower interest rates.
3. Understand the legal process
The Dutch home-buying process is highly regulated, which protects both buyer and seller. Key steps include:
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Offer & acceptance – Once your offer is accepted, it becomes binding after signing the purchase agreement (koopovereenkomst).
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Cooling-off period – You have three days to change your mind without penalty.
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Completion at the notary – The property officially becomes yours when the transfer deed (leveringsakte) is signed.
4. Don’t overlook additional costs
Besides the purchase price, expect:
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Transfer tax (overdrachtsbelasting): 2% for most buyers, but first-time buyers under 35 may be exempt for properties up to € 510,000 (2025 threshold).
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Mortgage arrangement and advice fees.
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Valuation and building inspection costs.
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Your agent’s fee (if you use a buying agent – which we highly recommend!).
5. Work with an Expat-focused real estate agent
Dutch rules, bidding strategies, and contract details can be very different from what you’re used to in your home country. Having a buying agent who:
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Speaks your language.
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Knows the local market.
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Understands expat-specific challenges.
…can save you time, money, and stress.
✅ At Your Dutch Home, we guide first-time buyers through every step, from arranging your mortgage to negotiating the best deal and ensuring a smooth handover.
We believe buying your first home in the Netherlands should be an exciting milestone, not a stressful puzzle.
💬 Thinking of buying your first home in the Netherlands? Get in touch with us for a free consultation and personalised advice.
