Navigating the world of mortgages as a ZZP'er or entrepreneur can feel like stepping into a maze of myths and misconceptions. In this blog, the we aim to clarify things by debunking the myths and giving you the right information to help you get a mortgage in the Netherlands.

What are the differences between ZZP'ers and entrepreneurs?

First, it's important to differentiate between these two terms, as the requirements for each group can vary:

In the Netherlands, freelancers are known as ZZP'ers (zelfstandige zonder personeel, meaning "independent with no employees"). These self-employed professionals work independently, not as employees. ZZPs usually work based on a long—or short-term contract with their clients. Typically, they run their businesses as an eenmanszaak, a one-person business structure.
In the Netherlands, entrepreneurs who operate a private limited company are known as BV owners. A B.V. (Besloten Vennootschap) is a legal structure that self-employed individuals can choose for their business.

What are the requirements for getting a mortgage as a freelancer (ZZP'er)?

Several factors are important when applying for a freelancer (ZZP'er) mortgage, including income, job security, and future expectations.

The key requirement is income history.

To qualify for a mortgage, you need at least 12 months of activity in your company and registration at the Kamer van Koophandel (KvK), the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. Determining income for freelancers is not as straightforward as deciding income from employment.

The income is based on the average of the last three years. Depending on the mortgage provider, your specific situation, and employment/company history, the options can be more extensive than you might think. For instance, under these conditions, we can even consider your employment income in the last 3 years if your company does not have 3 3-year history yet.

What documents are required to start a mortgage application?

To apply for a mortgage, you need to provide the following documents to a mortgage lender, specific to freelancers:

Annual report for the last 3 years*
Tax returns for the last 3 years*
Year-to-date results of the current year.
Chamber of Commerce registration.
Business forecast for the rest of the current year.

*: or less, if the company still needs to get the 3 years history.

For example:

Martha, who is freelancing in the tech sector, has successfully run her company for 3 years, with consistent growth of 30% annually. Now, she wants to stop renting and buy a property. What options does she have? Her yearly company results:

Martha's maximum mortgage is € 549.670.
Year 1 (2021): € 80.000
Year 2 (2022): € 104.000
Year 3 (2023) : € 135.200

What are the requirements for getting a mortgage as an entrepreneur?

The key requirement for beginning your mortgage application as an entrepreneur is providing the annual reports stating the results over the past 3 years* for each company you own. In addition to this, you also need to provide the following documents to the mortgage lender for each company you own:

Company tax returns for the last 3 years*
Organization chart
Most recent salary slip
Year-to-date results of the current year
Chamber of Commerce registration
Business forecast for the rest of the current year

*: or less, if the company still needs to get the 3 years history.

For example

Oliver is an entrepreneur and owns an IT business. For the same season as Martha, he wants to stop renting and finally purchase a property in the Netherlands.

Oliver's maximum mortgage: € 866.458
Oliver pays himself a salary of € 70.000. He started the company five years ago.

Company results over the last 3 years:

Year 1: € 10.000
Year 2: € 130.000
Year 3: € 169.000

What do you do if you have just started freelancing or running your BV?

Each bank has different requirements, so our advisors can help by reviewing your information and negotiating with lenders. The final decision depends on the lender's policies. For more details, contact our mortgage advisors.

How can Mister Mortgage help you if you are a freelancer or entrepreneur?

Our mortgage advisor team has specialized in mortgage advice for expats freelancers/entrepreneurs for many years. We offer our clients:

In-depth analysis of your financial situation to find the best mortgage solutions.
Access to various lenders and products tailored for freelancers and entrepreneurs.
We negotiate with lenders to secure favourable terms and conditions for your mortgage.
Assistance with meeting varying lender requirements and adjusting to changes in your financial situation.

Our team provides mortgage solutions designed specifically for freelancers and entrepreneurs. Reach out to our mortgage specialists for expert, personalized guidance every step of the way. We're committed to transparency, integrity, and growth and are dedicated to helping you secure a bright financial future. Contact us today to start your journey!

Are you self-employed and looking for a mortgage?

Schedule a free introductory call with our mortgage specialist to understand your mortgage options as self-employed in the Netherlands.