YOUR GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME IN THE NETHERLANDS
Ready to buy a home in the Netherlands? We help expats navigate the Dutch housing market with confidence.
At Xpat Housing Solutions, our experienced and licenced buying agents specialize in supporting internationals. We guide you through every step: from defining your search, to viewings negotiations, and finalizing the purchase. We make sure your buying process is safe, efficient, and free from surprises.
WE COMBINE SMART TECH AND PERSONAL SUPPORT TO FIND YOUR NEW HOME FAST!
YOUR BENEFITS AT A GLACE:
Buying Coach
Smart, online buying guidance
A smart way to buy a home in the Netherlands, combining innovative digital tools with personal buying guidance when you need it.
Option to include all essential buying services for a fully coordinated purchase.
Digital buying intake
Buying profile & priorities intake
Automated home search
AI-powered home search scanning all major platforms
Automated home search alerts
Scans all major housing platforms 24/7
1st access to new listings
Remote viewing support (up to 3)
Clear preparation and guidance for viewings
Viewing preparation: what to check and ask
Video guidance to capture property details
Property condition analysis (up to 3)
Video guidance to capture property details
Viewing checklist
Property value estimation
Repair cost estimates per room
Sustainability & energy label improvement advice
Key questions for the selling agent
Buying agent leads negotiations (up to 3)
Certified buying agent supports you with:
Property value estimation
Neighborhood price comparison
Pros & cons overview
Negotiation handled by buying agent
Legal checks to ensure a safe buy
Certified buying agent checks:
Purchase agreement
Transfer deed
Land-use plan
Property ownership information
Owners’ Assocation Documents (VVE)
Final inspection checklist & preparation support
Final inspection preparation checklist
Coordination support
Single point of contact for coordination for complimentary services
Utilities setup coordination
Insurance coordination
Provisional tax return filing
Coordinated with a trusted tax advisor
Provisional tax return filing (year 1)
+ Optional complete purchase support:
Technical building inspection – Property appraisal – Notary services
Buying Coach with optional complete package
Buying Genie
Personal, full-service buying guidance
Personal buying guidance in the South of the Netherlands, with your certified buying agent by your side, every step of the process. Option to include all essential buying services for a fully coordinated purchase.
Personal intake meeting with your buying agent
Define your buying profile and priorities
Explanation of home search tool
Discuss any questions you might have
Automated home search
Search based on your budget and wishes
Scans all major housing platforms 24/7
1st access to new online listings
Personal search & advice from your buying agent
Your buying agent supports you personally with:
Home search
Booking of viewings
Getting exclusive off-market property access
Guided property viewings with your agent (up to 10)
Your buying agent helps with:
Initial on-site property check
Interaction with selling agent
Questions about the property or neighborhood
Buying agent actively negotiates on your behalf (up to 10)
Your buying agent supports you with:
Property value estimation
Neighborhood price comparison
Pros & cons overview
Tailored bidding strategy
Active negotiation on your behalf
Legal check to ensure a safe buy
Your buying agent checks:
Purchase agreement
Transfer deeds
Land-use plan
Property ownership information
Owners’ Assocation Documents (VVE)
Final inspection attended by your buying agent
Your buying agent will:
Arrange the appointment for the final inspection
Check the property during the inspection
Represent your best interests
Ongoing advice & coordination support
One dedicated point of contact for guidance and coordination
Utilities setup coordination
Insurance coordination
Ongoing guidance and Q&A
Notary appointment with your buying agent
Your buying agent will:
Attend the notary appointment with you
Supports you during signing and completion
Provisional tax return filing
Coordinated with a trusted tax advisor
Provisional tax return filing (year 1)
+ Optional complete purchase support:
Technical building inspection – Property appraisal – Notary services
Buying Genie with optional complete package
Let's find the best fit for your situation.
Pricing depends on the region and possible partnership discounts.
Schedule a short call to learn more and receive your tailored offer.
WHY EXPATS AND COMPANIES TRUSTS US:
JUST BOUGHT:
Some of our recently purchased homes
Finding a home in the Netherlands can be challenging, but it’s absolutely possible. Take a look at some of the homes we’ve recently helped our clients buy, often within just a few months.
Request your offer
FAQ's for expats & internationals
1. Can expats buy property in the Netherlands?
Yes—foreigners can buy homes; mortgage approval usually requires Dutch residency (BSN).
Full answer: With a valid passport, BSN (citizen service number), and proof of income, internationals can buy property in the Netherlands. Mortgage providers typically require you to be registered and living in the Netherlands before granting approval.
2. When should I talk to a mortgage advisor?
As early as possible—ideally before you start bidding.
Full answer: We strongly recommend meeting with a mortgage advisor before placing any offers. This gives you clarity on your borrowing power, avoids disappointments later, and makes your offer more attractive to sellers. We can arrange a free, no-obligation consultation with an independent, expat-specialized mortgage advisor for you.
3. How much can I borrow as an expat?
It depends on your income, savings, and personal situation.
Full answer: Online mortgage calculators give a first indication of your maximum mortgage, but we advise confirming this in a consultation with an advisor. They’ll review your full financial situation and provide an accurate, reliable figure.
4. Do I need to bring in my own money?
Yes—at least 3,5–6% of the purchase price, sometimes more.
Full answer: Dutch banks finance up to 100% of the appraised value of the property. Buyers must cover additional costs (“kosten koper”) such as 2% transfer tax, notary, and valuation—around 3,5–6% extra. If the purchase price is higher than the appraised value, you’ll need to fund that difference yourself. Our buying agents help prevent surprises by guiding your bidding strategy and reviewing valuations carefully.
5. What is “KK" or "Kosten Koper” and how much should I budget?
Budget 3,5–6% extra for transfer tax, notary, and valuation.
Full answer: “Kosten koper” (buyer’s costs) are mandatory additional expenses including transfer tax, notary fees, and the appraisal report. We provide clear guidance so you know exactly what to expect when budgeting.
6. Is hiring a buying agent really worth it?
Yes—because the right agent protects you, saves you time, and often saves you money.
Full answer: A buying agent helps you avoid costly mistakes, negotiates the best price, and ensures you don’t overpay. Just as important: with a strong bidding strategy, you often secure your home faster, which reduces months of extra rent and avoids missing out on further market price increases.
7. Do I only stand a chance if I bid without a financing clause?
Not necessarily—winning depends on more than just waiving conditions.
Full answer: Sellers may prefer offers without a financing clause, but success also depends on your bid amount, flexibility on handover date, and overall offer quality. We don’t just advise on price—we guide you on which clauses and conditions strengthen your bid while still protecting your interests.
💡 There are even safe ways to bid without a financing clause, without taking unnecessary risks. We’ll explain all options, so you can decide confidently.
8. What happens if I cancel after signing the purchase agreement?
After the 3-day cooling-off period, cancellation usually costs 10% of the purchase price.
Full answer: Buyers have a legal 3-day cooling-off period after signing the purchase agreement. During this time, you can withdraw without penalty. Once this period ends, cancellation generally leads to a 10% penalty of the purchase price. Working with our buying agents and mortgage partners ensures you’re fully prepared before signing, so you avoid costly mistakes.
9. What first-time buyer tax exemptions exist?
Buyers under 35 pay 0% transfer tax on homes up to €525,000.
Full answer: From 2025, the starter exemption applies: first-time buyers aged 18–35 purchasing a primary residence up to €525,000 are exempt from transfer tax. For homes above this limit, the standard 2% tax applies.
10. Are the purchase costs tax-deductible?
Some costs are deductible, and we help you claim them.
Full answer: Mortgage-related costs—such as mortgage advice, NHG fee, and the appraisal report—are often deductible. With our service, a tax expert prepares your provisional tax return, ensuring you receive all refunds you’re entitled to without any extra effort.
11. How long does the home-buying journey take with you?
On average, clients secure their home within just a few months.
Full answer: From defining your search criteria to signing at the notary, our clients typically complete their home purchase within 2–4 months. Our hands-on support ensures the process is smooth, efficient, and stress-free.