Buying a home in a new country can feel overwhelming — especially in The Netherlands, where the housing market is competitive and the rules may be different from what you’re used to. If you are an expat moving to The Hague or surrounding areas, this guide will walk you through the entire process of buying a house in the Netherlands, step by step.
Whether you’re looking for your first home in the Netherlands or upgrading to a larger house, this overview will help you understand what to expect.
Step 1. Understand the Dutch Housing Market
The Dutch housing market is fast-moving and competitive, especially in cities like The Hague (Den Haag), Amsterdam, and Rotterdam. Many homes sell quickly, often after just one viewing.
Key things to know:
- Most buyers use a real estate agent (makelaar) to represent them.
- Homes are usually listed on Funda.nl, the main Dutch property website.
- Bidding wars are common, and properties often sell above the asking price.
If you’re an expat, working with a buyer’s agent in The Hague who understands both the market and your situation can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Step 2. Set Your Budget and Get Mortgage Advice
Before you start viewing houses, you need to know what you can afford. In the Netherlands, most buyers finance their purchase with a mortgage (hypotheek).
- Meet with a mortgage advisor (hypotheekadviseur) early in the process.
- They will calculate your borrowing capacity, usually based on your salary, contract type, and interest rates.
- Expats can usually get a mortgage, but requirements may differ depending on your residency status.
Step 3. Start Your Home Search
Once you know your budget, you can start looking at houses.
Where to search:
- Funda.nl – the biggest housing portal.
- Real estate agents’ websites.
- Expat-focused agents (like MiCasa) often know about homes before they hit the market.
When choosing a neighborhood in The Hague, consider:
- Commute times.
- Schools (international and Dutch).
- Lifestyle preferences (quiet, family-friendly, or lively city living).
👉 For inspiration, check our guide on the Best Neighbourhoods in The Hague for Expats.
Unlike many agents who only start calling once you’ve already shortlisted homes yourself, I work proactively. I regularly search the market for properties that match your wishes, prepare a customized spreadsheet with detailed data, and we review the options together. This way, we can make smart, informed choices about which homes are truly worth visiting — saving time and increasing your chances of success.
Step 4. Viewings and Choosing the Right Home
In The Netherlands, viewings are often short and competitive. You may only get one chance to see the property before making an offer.
Bring a checklist:
- General condition of the property.
- Size and layout.
- Energy label (important for bills and sustainability).
- Renovation needs.
An aankoopmakelaar (buyer’s agent) can help you evaluate if the house is worth the asking price and what issues to look out for.
Step 5. Making an Offer (Bidding)
Making an offer is one of the most stressful parts of buying a home in the Netherlands.
What to know:
- Offers are usually submitted in writing via the seller’s agent.
- You may include conditions, such as financing or a building inspection.
Your buyer’s agent can help you craft a winning bidding strategy, especially important in competitive areas like The Hague.
Step 6. The Purchase Agreement (Koopovereenkomst)
If your offer is accepted, the seller’s agent will draft the koopovereenkomst (purchase agreement).
Important details included:
- Purchase price.
- Transfer date.
- Conditions (financing, technical inspection).
⚖️ As a buyer, you have a 3-day cooling-off period after signing the contract.
Step 7. Finalizing the Mortgage
With the purchase agreement signed, you’ll need to finalize your mortgage.
- Your mortgage advisor will guide you through the paperwork.
- The lender will require documents like salary slips, tax records, and possibly residence permits.
- Once approved, you’ll sign the mortgage deed at the notary.
Step 8. The Notary and Transfer of Ownership
The final step is the notary appointment (notaris). On this day:
- You sign the akte van levering (deed of transfer).
- You sign the mortgage deed (if applicable).
- The property is officially registered in your name.
Congratulations — you are now a homeowner in the Netherlands! 🎉
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in the Netherlands as an expat may feel complicated, but with the right support it becomes manageable — and exciting.
At MiCasa, we specialize in guiding expats in The Hague through the entire buying process: from the first viewing to the final notary appointment. With personal experience as expats ourselves, we know the challenges and how to make your move smooth and successful.
👉 Ready to start your home-buying journey? Contact us today and let’s find your perfect home in The Hague.