The Netherlands is known for its beautiful nature and rich history, but also for its prosperity and high standard of living. This makes it an attractive destination for expats from all over the world.
As nice as it may seem, when you decide to settle in the Netherlands as an expat you also face a complicated and difficult process. We have therefore listed all the important steps for you.
Why do you want to settle in the Netherlands as an expat?
There are a number of reasons that make the Netherlands an excellent choice for many expats, one important reason is our strong economy, as one of the most prosperous countries in the world we have a strong economy and many international companies are based here. The technical sector is also very big in our country, with a lot of demand for foreign knowledge here as well.
Language is also a big advantage for many expats. The Dutch generally speak excellent English compared to other countries. This makes integration a lot easier for expats.
Learn to understand the Dutch housing market
The Dutch housing market is booming, with demand for housing many times higher than supply, often creating unpredictable situations. Especially in urban areas such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam and The Hague, it is very difficult to find housing.
The strict rules in the Dutch housing market
Also, this housing market often works differently from what you might be used to. In the Netherlands, you have to deal with much stricter rules and legislation when it comes to buying a house.
Ensure proper preparation, financial planning and budgeting
Before the search for a home begins, it is important to map out your financial situation. When buying a house, you need to consider a number of additional costs such as transfer tax, notary fees and any renovation costs. You also need to be properly insured when buying your home.
Mortgage advisor at Bert van Vulpen
As an expat, it is also wise to use a mortgage advisor, who will check with you how much you can borrow and what your monthly expenses will be. As an expat, it is more difficult to get a mortgage; many banks want to be sure that you have a stable income so that you can pay your monthly mortgage payments.
At Bert van Vulpen, we put you in touch with the right advisers who have experience with expats and are going to get you the best deal.
The start of your search
You have completed the financial picture and are ready to start looking for a nice house. The big question now is: where will this search take place? As an expat, you may not be completely familiar with all the beautiful places to live that the Netherlands has to offer.
So enlist the help of one of Bert van Vulpen’s estate agents. Are you looking for a property close to your work? Or rather in a quiet area outside the city? We will listen to your wishes and find exactly the property that fully meets them.
Viewings and bidding
Once you have found a property that suits your needs, the next step is to view it. It is of course important that you like the house itself, but also pay close attention to the condition of the house and any maintenance that needs to be done. Want to make sure you don’t overlook anything during the viewing? Then choose to visit the house together with one of our estate agents.
Making the right offer
Have you become convinced of this house after the viewing? Then it’s time to make an offer. This process might be different from what you are used to. So let Bert van Vulpen’s estate agents guide you through it. As experienced estate agents, they know the current market value and can advise you on the right bidding strategy.
Your bid has been accepted, now what?
Your bid has been accepted! That means it’s time to buy. Even at this stage, there are a lot of rules and procedures you need to follow. One of the most important parts of this phase is drawing up the sales contract. This lays down in writing all the agreements between the buyer and the seller.
Engage a notary
In the Netherlands, when buying a house, it is a legal requirement to engage a notary. This ensures that the legal aspects of the house transfer are carried out correctly.
At Bert van Vulpen estate agents, we have close contacts with reliable notaries who have experience with expats and will help you translate the legal documents.
The big moment: moving in
Once the sale is fully completed, the move will begin. Again, it is important to prepare well. This includes arranging utilities, internet and TV subscriptions and registering with the municipality.
Here too, Bert van Vulpen’s estate agents provide you with useful tips and good connections with parties that have experience with expats.
As an expat, buying a property in the Netherlands is a stressful experience. By engaging Bert van Vulpen’s buying brokers, you benefit from our years of experience in the Dutch housing market. We understand the often unique challenges you face as an expat and will expertly solve them for you.
Whether it is finding the perfect home, negotiating the best price or translating legal documents, at Bert van Vulpen we are here for you! Want to know how we will help you get your dream home? Get in touch with us!