When purchasing a home in the Netherlands, you can choose a mortgage backed by the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG). With NHG, the Dutch Homeownership Guarantee Fund (Stichting Waarborgfonds Eigen Woningen) backs your mortgage, reducing your financial risk in situations such as job loss, disability, or a decrease in income. In 2026, the NHG cost limit is €470,000. Wondering whether an NHG mortgage is right for you? Keep reading to learn exactly what it involves, what the requirements are, and what it costs.
What is an NHG mortgage?
NHG, or National Mortgage Guarantee, is a unique Dutch system designed to protect both you and your mortgage lender. The Dutch government backs the scheme and aims to help homebuyers secure a mortgage more easily. It was introduced in 1993 to reduce the risk of taking out a mortgage and to make homes more affordable.
Because part of the risk is covered, lenders can offer a lower interest rate on an NHG mortgage. When buying a house in the Netherlands, choosing NHG means adding an extra safety net: if you're temporarily unable to make your monthly payments, NHG can offer a solution.
Under the NHG scheme, your income is matched against your mortgage to help ensure affordability. One important limitation: the scheme only applies up to a certain cost limit, and many properties in larger cities exceed this threshold. Above that limit, you'll need a conventional mortgage guaranteed by a banking institution instead.
What are the NHG requirements?
To qualify for an NHG mortgage, several conditions apply, including:
| Requirement | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost limit | The property value does not exceed €470,000 (2026) | |
| Property type | Applies to both existing and newly built properties | |
| Financing | Up to 100% of the property value |
Why do I need coverage of NHG?
Imagine losing your job, or your partner passing away. Your whole life changes overnight, and it can take months to get your finances back on track. If you're unable to make your monthly payments but have an NHG-backed mortgage, you can ask for help. Your mortgage lender and NHG will assess your situation together and work out a financial solution — helping you keep your home and avoid losses if you do need to sell.
NHG protects you if you:
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lose your job.
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get a divorce.
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are not able to work due to disability.
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(or your partner) passes away.
How much does NHG cost in the Netherlands?
There’s a one-time fee of 0.4% of your mortgage amount. Let's say you plan to borrow €390,000, so your NHG (Dutch National Mortgage Guarantee) fee will be €1,560.
Would you like to check if you qualify for an NHG mortgage in the Netherlands? Schedule a free call with our mortgage advisors—we are here to help!
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