| Check maximum mortgage | Hire a real estate agent | Understand Dutch mortgage types |
|---|---|---|
| Contact us to get your personalized mortgage calculations. | Helps with bidding, documents, and language | Choose between annuity or linear structure |
Most first-time buyers can borrow up to 100% of a property’s market value (Loan-to-Value ratio). But mortgage amount and eligibility depends on:
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A BSN (citizen service number)
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Proof of income
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Additional documents, such as an overview of assets and debts, as well as property-related documents, are required to begin a mortgage application.
Dutch property buying can be complex, and working with a real estate agent can be beneficial:
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Bid strategies vary by region
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Most documents are in Dutch, not in English
A real estate agent who specializes in working with expats can help you with:
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Translate and explain contracts
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Guide through price negotiations
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Coordinate the purchase process with you and your mortgage broker
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Transfer tax: 2%. If you are under 35 years old and you buy a property below €525.000, you may qualify for a 0% transfer tax. Additionally, there is no transfer tax on newly built properties.
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Notary fees: €800 – €1.500
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Valuation report: €500- €800
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Real estate agent fees: 1–2% of purchase price
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Our Mister Mortgage fee: €3099
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Your mortgage eligibility and maximum amount can be checked quickly, depending on your availability and how fast you can gather the required documents.
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The duration of the property search is variable—typically averaging 1 to 12 months—but it depends on many factors, including the state of the market, the location where you want to buy, whether you are working with a real estate agent, and how specific your preferences are.
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The period from offer acceptance to contract signing typically takes about 1 week.
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The mortgage application process typically takes 5 to 10 days, depending on the lender's processing times.
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Notary approval depends on the agreed date with the seller—it can happen quickly or take longer, as the time frame varies from case to case.
As a first-time homebuyer and expat, you may be eligible for certain benefits and tax reliefs:
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If you are under 35 years old and you buy a property below €525,000 , then you need to pay 0% transfer tax. Otherwise, you need to pay 2 % of a property price.
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Interest rate deductions
Annuity and linear mortgages are tax-deductible in the Netherlands.
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National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG)
Mortgages with NHG (National Mortgage Guarantee) up to €450,000 typically come with a discounted interest rate.
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Not checking your maximum mortgage before placing a bid on your dream property can lead to financial risks.
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Underestimating closing fees needed.
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Relying on online mortgage calculators and not checking your actual borrowing capacity before placing a bid on your dream property —the better solution is to work with our mortgage advisors and get personalized mortgage report.
Buying your first home in the Netherlands as an expat is entirely doable—and it can be a smooth process with the right team. For expert advice, real-time calculations, and English-language support, connect with Mister Mortgage, an independent mortgage specialist for expats.
Schedule a free call with our mortgage specialists. We’re here to guide you through the process of buying your first home in the Netherlands.
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Access to a trusted network.
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Highly competitive rates and flexible terms.
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Guidance through the entire mortgage process.
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English translations of bank documents are shared.
- 100% Independent Advice
