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
Professional support when you need it- Certified buying agent
- Intake meeting
- Automated home search
- 1st access to new online listings
- Guided viewings
- Complete support for up to 2 homes
- Initial property check
- Conduct market analysis
- Provide value estimation
- Conduct negotiations
- Offer submitting
- Contract review
- Arrange & attend final inspection
Buying Genie
Premium support so you can buy your dream home stress free- All of the Buying Coach services PLUS:
- Arrange free mortgage consultation
- Home search performed by your buying agent
- Exclusive off-market property access
- Booked viewings
- Complete support for up to 10 homes
- Support to connect utilities before move-in
- Support to arrange insurance before move-in
- Support to terminate rental contract
- Connect to reliable moving company
- Accompany to notary
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:
START YOUR SEARCH NOW:
1 MONTH FREE ACCESS!
Looking to buy a home? Use our AI-powered search engine to get instant access to the newest listings, often before they hit the big platforms.
Rated 4.9/5 on Google
✓ Scans all major real estate sites for you 24/7
✓ Receive instant alerts based on your search profile
✓ Access hidden off-market listings
✓ Fully in English
✓ No subscription. No auto-renewal. No risk.
1 MONTH FREE ACESS!
No subscription, No strings attached!
Simply copy and use this access key at sign-up:
12|Z1HdQWb3CHUNc1voKOmsLFfKnr8eVezmoDY0TqgP
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.
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.