Why Fixed Rates Win

  • Predictable cash flow for multiple years

  • Hedge against ECB rate hikes & inflation

  • Penalty‑aware refinancing guidance

  • Combine with NHG & sustainability discounts

Who It’s For

  • Long‑term residents seeking stability

  • Expats/Entrepreneurs needing planning certainty

  • Buy‑to‑live buyers optimizing risk/return

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Fixed Rates — Frequently Asked Questions
Are fixed rates always higher than variable?
Are fixed rates better than variable?
Do fixed rates qualify for NHG discounts?
What are fixed rates for mortgages in the Netherlands?
Can I switch if rates drop?

Fixed Rates — In‑Depth Mortgage Guide for the Netherlands

Fixed rates keep your mortgage interest unchanged for an agreed period (e.g., 5, 10, 15, or 20 years). During this fixation period, your monthly annuity (interest + principal) remains predictable. At the end of the fixed term, your lender will offer a new rate; you may accept it, renegotiate, or refinance with another lender.

  • Products: annuity, linear, and interest‑only tranches can all use fixed rates (subject to policy).

  • Reset moment: when a fixed term ends, your rate can move up or down with the market.

  • Early repayment allowance: most lenders allow 10–20% extra repayment per year without penalty.

  • Portability: some lenders let you “take” your fixed rate to a new home (conditions apply).

How Lenders Price Fixed Rates

Pricing for fixed rates reflects funding costs and borrower risk. While each lender has its own model, the mechanics are broadly consistent:

  • Swap curve & funding: longer fixed terms reference longer‑dated funding, which usually costs more.

  • Loan‑to‑Value (LTV) bands: lower LTV (e.g., <60%) generally means better fixed rates than higher LTV (e.g., 80–100%).

  • NHG (National Mortgage Guarantee): when eligible, NHG typically reduces the offered fixed rate due to lower credit risk.

  • Energy/green discounts: properties with strong energy labels or green upgrades may receive additional discounts.

Choosing the Right Fixed Term

Align the length of your fixed rates with your time horizon and risk appetite:

  • 5 years fixed: lower initial rate and more flexibility if you expect to move or refinance sooner.

  • 10 years fixed: balanced choice for many households—stability with a competitive price point.

  • 15–20 years fixed: maximum predictability for long‑term owners who value budget certainty.

  • Hybrid approach: split the mortgage into multiple buckets (e.g., part fixed, part variable) to diversify rate risk.

Decision rule of thumb: if market volatility or cash‑flow stability is your primary concern, favour a longer fixed period; if you anticipate rate declines or plan to move, consider shorter or hybrid structures.

Refinancing, Switching & Break Fees

You can switch lenders or reset your fixed rates when conditions are favourable. The business case depends on the size of any break fee versus the present‑value savings from a lower rate.

  • Break‑even analysis: weigh penalty interest against monthly savings and transaction costs.

  • Interest averaging: some lenders offer a blended‑rate solution instead of a full break fee.

  • Portability & top‑ups: when moving, you may transfer part of your fixed rate and add a new tranche.

  • Timing: many lenders allow you to secure a new fixed rate a few months before the term ends.

Glossary of Key Mortgage Terms

  • Annuity / Linear
    Repayment types. An annuity keeps total payment stable; a linear annuity reduces principal faster with declining payments.

  • Boeterente
    Penalty interest for breaking a fixed term early, beyond the allowable extra repayments.

  • NHG
    National Mortgage Guarantee—framework that can reduce pricing in exchange for meeting eligibility rules.

  • LTV (Loan‑to‑Value)
    The loan amount divided by property value; lower LTV often secures better fixed rates.

  • Fixed rates
    An interest rate that remains unchanged during a chosen fixation period.

Schedule a free consultation

Schedule a meeting to benchmark today’s fixed rates and your monthly payment. We confirm NHG/LTV discounts and recommend the optimal fixation term—no obligation.