Buying

When you become a property owner in the Netherlands you are entitled to claim certain tax benefits. If the house which you have bought is your primary residence then your mortgage (hypotheek) interest payments will be tax-deductible, as will many other expenses incurred during the purchase (notarial deed etc). Moreover, if you rent a property and your employer pays the rent or contributes to it, this is taxed as a benefit.  

It is advisable to consult with a mortgage advisor at your bank or an agency to calculate a realistic estimate of the price range suitable to your situation.  

What You Need to Know  

• For properties advertised as ‘kk’ (buyer costs, kosten koper), you will be obliged to pay the additional expenses such as the services of an estate agent, transfer costs, etc. On average, these expenses will comprise approximately 6% of the property price.  If a property is advertised as ‘vrij op naam’, this means that all expenses are included in the price. 
• During your negotiations for buying a property, the seller's agent is still permitted to receive other parties to view the property. Always bear in mind that the agent will generally act in the best interest of the seller. Many buyers choose to protect their interests by hiring their own agent.  
• Make sure your proposition for a price is made subject to the condition that you will be able to arrange financing within a certain time period.