Expat mortgages
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Expat Mortgages

The Netherlands, with its picturesque canals, charming architecture, and high quality of life, is a popular destination for expats looking to settle down and buy a home. If you’re thinking of buying a house here, it can be exciting but also a bit complicated. We are here to help you and we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of purchasing a house in the Netherlands as an expat.

 

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How does an expat mortgage work?

An expat mortgage is a special type of home loan designed for people from other countries living in the Netherlands. Expat mortgages basically work the same as a mortgage for regular citizens, but they often involve more extensive documentation. You’ll need to give information about your income, debts, the house you want to buy and more to the mortgage lender. While this is standard practice for mortgages in the Netherlands, expats may need to put in a bit more effort to meet these requirements. As a mortgage finance broker we know everything about the process and we’re here to help you make things easier.

What are the conditions of an expat mortgage?

What are the conditions of an expat mortgage?

Many people inquire about the requirements for expat mortgages. It’s a common misconception that there are numerous restrictions for expats, but this is not the case. The only conditions are: 

  • You are an EU citizen or you have a non-temporary permit of residence
  • You have a citizen’s service number (BSN). You receive one when you register with the municipality.

How to buy a house in the Netherlands? Step-by-step explaining

Now that you have a basic understanding of expat mortgages let’s walk through the steps of buying a house in the Netherlands:

Step 1: Orientation meeting with a mortgage broker

The search for your new home in the Netherlands starts with a meeting with a mortgage advisor. We help you to determine your maximum mortgage and tell you all about the process. 

Step 2: Bidding on and buying a property

Now that you know what your budget is, you can start searching for houses. You can do this yourself on websites like Funda.nl/en/ or let a broker help you. Once you found your dream home, you can make an offer on the house. In addition to the amount, there are also some resolutive conditions you can include, such as purchasing subject to financing. This means that if you can’t secure the mortgage within the specified period (typically 4-6 weeks), you can unilaterally terminate the contract. When you’re unsure about what’s best for you, feel free to give us a call, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Step 3: Signing the purchase contract

Yes, your offer has been accepted! Now, you’ll proceed to sign the purchase agreement either in person with the real estate agent or digitally. This contract details exactly what you’ve bought, when you’ll receive the keys, and any additional agreements that have been made. If you included any conditions in your offer, the purchase will only be final when all these conditions are met. Once you’ve signed the contract, you have three days to cancel the contract without giving a reason (cooling off period).

Step 4: Start you mortgage application

Now, the actual process kicks in, and we initiate your mortgage application. The bank requires several documents from you, including your passport, pay slips, employer’s statement, and more. Additionally, a valuation report is needed, where an valuator assesses the value of the property you’ve acquired. We will compile all these documents and present them to the bank as evidence of your financial capability to afford the house. Upon approval from the bank, they will furnish us with a mortgage offer.

Step 5: Arrange your insurances

When you move into your new home, there are certain insurances we recommend you consider. To begin with home insurance. In the Netherlands we have building insurance that safeguards your house against damages caused by events like storms or fires. This is obligatory when purchasing a house. Additionally, we suggest obtaining contents insurance, providing coverage for all you possessions within your home.

 

Next to the insurance for your new home we also recommend getting life insurance. In the event of the unfortunate passing of one partner when purchasing a home jointly, part of the income may be lost. Life insurance serves as a safeguard, preventing financial challenges for you or you partner. The funds from this insurance can be utilized to settle (part of) the mortgage, ensuring your loved once can maintain residence in the house.

Step 6: To the notary to pick up the keys for your new home

Prior to your appointment with the notary, you will rendezvous with the real estate agent at the property. Collaboratively, you will confirm whether the house is being handed over as per the agreed terms. Subsequently, you will proceed to the notary of your choice to sign both the mortgage and transfer deed. Here, you’ll also pay the additional buyer’s costs, which include notary fees, mortgage advice costs, valuator fees, and more.

Following this, you’ll be presented with the keys, officially marking your ownership of the property. Congratulations on your new home!

 

 

Customized Mortgage Advice

Customized Mortgage Advice

At Vallei & Heuvelrug Hypotheken, we understand that every situation is unique. Whether you’re buying a house for the first time, embarking on a new adventure with your partner, or adjusting your home to changes in your life. We provide tailored mortgage advice. We are here to guide you in understanding the financial possibilities and making te right choices for your situation. This way, the journey to your new dream home becomes more clear and worry-free.

Frequently Asked Questions about expat mortgages

What are the costs of your services?

Your first appointment with us is always free of charge. If you decide to continue with our services, we always inform you about the costs before we start the application. You can expect the costs to be between €2.500 and €3.000.

What are the additional costs of buying a house?

Kosten koper, abbreviated as k.k., are  the additional expenses you pay on top of the purchase price of a home. The buyer’s costs include transfer tax, notary fees, costs for mortgage advice and valuation costs. On average, these buyer’s costs amount to approximately 3% to 4% of the home’s purchase price.

Can you get a 100% mortgage in the Netherlands?

Yes, when you buy a house in the Netherlands, you can get a mortgage for up to 100% of the value of the property. Do you want to make your home more sustainable? Then you can get a mortgage for up to a maximum of 106%, provided your income allows.

How much deposit do I need to buy a house in the Netherlands?

The deposit required to buy a house is 10% of the property’s purchase price. This means if you are purchasing a home for €400.000, you need to provide a deposit of €40.000. If you don’t have this money, you can use a bank guarantee instead. The bank will then, for a fee of 1% of the purchase price, guarantee that amount.

How long does a mortgage application take?

From start to finish the mortgage application process typically takes around 4 – 6 weeks on average.

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