Everything you always wanted to know about Dutch mortgages

The Netherlands' lovely cities and villages, the option to commute by bike, and our pretty relaxed culture; sure, we get it, you want to buy a house in the Netherlands! But how do you get started? Because there are quite a few typical Dutch rules and regulations to keep in mind when buying a house.

Did you know that when buying a home in the Netherlands...

 … you can only start arranging your mortgage after your bid has been accepted?

This is because the house serves as collateral for the mortgage.

 … the preliminary purchase agreement is binding?

The purchase agreement is binding after a three-day reflection period. This makes it extra important to double-check all the terms and conditions in the agreement. For your own safety, you can also include clauses in your bid (like a financial clause or a technical inspection) to cancel your purchase without penalties.

 … you will generally not get permission to rent out your property?

Standard residential mortgages stipulate that the home must be occupied by the owner: letting is usually not permitted. There are a few providers who offer buy-to-let mortgages though.

 … interest rates are non-negotiable in the Netherlands?

Everyone has the same options for the same mortgage product. It is prohibited to negotiate on the interest rate of your mortgage product, and mortgage providers cannot differentiate on the conditions of your mortgage.

 … you pay a separate advice fee?

You always pay a fee for your mortgage advice, whether you obtain it from an independent advisor or directly from a bank.

 … Dutch rules on lending amounts are set?

The amount you can borrow is not mortgage provider-dependent. The Dutch government decides the maximum amount you can borrow based on your income and the collateral.

 … to get a mortgage, you have to get the property appraised?

The mortgage provider needs to see the appraisal report before approving your mortgage.

 … capital donations from abroad do not need to be declared in the Netherlands?

It depends on the rules in the country of the donor if taxes need to be paid over the received donation.

Want to know the details? Andrew can tell you all about it in this video: 

Do you want to know what these rules mean for you? Sign up for Viisi’s Expat Mortgage Seminar!

Within the timespan of a single evening, Viisi’s advisors will address all the topics that are pivotal to the process of getting your bespoke mortgage. They will be happy to answer your questions while you enjoy some drinks and finger food.

Sign up now!

What to expect?

Viisi’s specialised expat advisors will address many topics, including:

• The current state of the property market - is this the right time to purchase real estate?
• What (maximum) mortgage loan you can qualify for, and what would be sensible given your possibilities.
• What options you have for selecting the best expat mortgage.
• What extra costs you can expect on top of the purchase price.
• Home ownership and the Dutch tax authorities.