Benefits of Consulting a Housing Agent before Buying Property
Expats looking to buy a property in the Netherlands often face unique challenges. Engaging a buying agent can be a smart choice for several reasons. Here are some key reasons why expats engage a buying agent:
1. Language barrier
Many expats do not speak Dutch or only speak it to a limited extent. A purchase broker can help communicate with sellers, estate agents, and other parties involved.
2. Knowledge of the local market
Purchase brokers have in-depth knowledge of the local housing market, including neighbourhood prices, trends, and future developments. This helps expats buy a property at a fair price.
3. Negotiation skills
Negotiating the price and conditions of a property can be complex, especially if you are unfamiliar with the Dutch market. A buying agent can perform this task professionally.
4. Legal guidance
The Dutch housing market has specific legal and administrative rules, such as purchase agreements and conditions for financing. A real estate agent makes sure everything is legally correct.
How about the 2025 changes:
From 1 January 2025, the house value limit for the starter exemption will be increased to €525,000. This means that homebuyers aged between 18 and 35 will not have to pay transfer tax when buying a property up to this amount under certain conditions. The main conditions for this exemption are: Age: The buyer is between 18 and 35 years of age at the time of acquisition (signing of the notarial deed of transfer). House value: The value of the house does not exceed €525,000. Own residence: The buyer declares in writing that he or she will occupy the property as his or her main residence. First use: The buyer has not used this exemption before. If these conditions are met, the buyer can make use of the starter exemption once and no transfer tax has to be paid when purchasing the property.
From 1 January 2025, the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) limit will be raised to €450,000, up from €435,000 in 2024. Additional loan facilities are available for homes that are being made more sustainable. With Energy Saving Facilities (EBV), the NHG limit will be increased to €477,000 in 2025. In addition, the bail-in fee, the one-off amount you pay for a mortgage with NHG, drops from 0.6% to 0.4% of the mortgage amount. For a €450,000 mortgage, this means a reduction from €2,700 to €1,800. With these adjustments, more homebuyers can enjoy the benefits of NHG, such as a more secure financial position and often a lower interest rate. NHG also provides a safety net for households facing personal circumstances such as relationship breakdown or disability
5. Save time
Expats often have busy schedules, especially when they have just settled in the Netherlands. A purchase broker takes a lot of work off their hands, such as searching for suitable houses, planning viewings, and coordinating with other parties.
6. Access to a wide network
Purchase brokers have access to houses that are not yet on Funda (the so-called ‘silent offer’) and can offer a wider range of options.
7. Guidance on financing and taxes
Obtaining a mortgage can be difficult for expats due to specific conditions, such as a temporary contract or income in another currency. A broker can help find the right financial advisers. 8. Understanding the neighbourhood A broker knows the neighbourhoods and districts well and can advise on schools, public transport, and other facilities that are important for expats.
9. Protection from pitfalls
Expats are often less familiar with potential pitfalls, such as hidden defects or unfavourable clauses in purchase agreements. A buying agent protects their interests.
10. Emotional neutrality
Buying a house is an emotional process. A buying agent remains objective and makes sure the decision remains rational.
Do you have specific questions about the role of a buying agent or want to know more about the process? Let us know! Always welcome for a no-obligation consultation.
Best regards, Xandra Walburg Vivo Aankoopmakelaars
06-18693909
info@vivoaankoopmakelaars.nl