Mortgage insights for expats in 2026
By Peter Geurts
Are you an expat considering your own Home Sweet Holland? Scratching your head on how to begin and own the process? We get it. Especially because navigating the complexities of real estate and mortgages can be challenging.
In this article, Klår Finance has rounded up valuable insights for 2026 to make your journey to get a mortgage as smooth as butter.
The tax transfer tax discount will increase
In 2026, first-time buyers under the age of 35 will not have to pay 2% transfer tax if they purchase a house that costs less than €555.000. This only counts if you haven’t made use of this advantage in the past. This is positive news, because in 2025, the transfer tax waiver was limited to houses below the value of €525.000.
An advantage for people entering the property market. This can save them thousands of euros!
The national Mortgage Guarantee limit will increase
If you buy a house with a purchase price or value below €470.000 in 2026, you can claim a mortgage with the NHG (in 2025, the limit was €450.000). This is positive news, because the NHG gives you the option to claim better mortgage conditions.
Single home purchasers are still able to borrow more
As in 2025, individuals wishing to purchase a home on their own will still be able to borrow an extra €17.000 next year (based on an income of at least €28.000). This initiative exists because single-person households generally have lower costs than other households.
Need help with your mortgage? Contact Klår Finance!
Getting some help from your parents?
Are you lucky enough to have parents who can give you a helping hand? If so, there are some great options to boost your home plans. You could consider a tax-free gift to invest more in your property, or a family loan that can be structured separately from your regular mortgage.
Keep in mind: these loans come with specific rules, so make sure you get proper advice before making a decision!
Sustainability and borrowing power
Although the advantages are slightly less compared to this year, in 2026 the government will still offer some great opportunities and subsidies to help make homes more sustainable.
When it comes to your loan, there are some important things to know:
- Buying a new home: Depending on the energy label of the home you wish to purchase, there is potential to borrow an additional €5.000 (label C or D), up to a maximum of €40.000 (label A++++ with a 10-year energy performance guarantee), on top of your maximum borrowing capacity.
- Renovating your existing home: Depending on your current energy label, you may be able to borrow up to €20.000 more if you are renovating your home with sustainable initiatives.
Having a sustainable house will not only be good for the environment, but it will also save you money on your energy bills. Additionally, lenders also provide a favourable interest rate to houses with higher energy labels, lowering your monthly costs.
Ready to make a plan? Contact Klår Finance! They’ve got the roadmap to make your home purchase plan a reality!
Peter is 40 years young, proud father of three. After years of experience in financial services he founded Klår Finance together with his friend and long time compadre Jochem. We believe that buying, as well as arranging the financing, should actually be fun. It’s exciting enough as it is, and nobody likes the hassle and paperwork that comes with it. We know! That’s why we like to do things a little bit differently.Read more