Dictionary for Home Buyers in the Netherlands

Kosten Koper (costs for the buyer)

These are all additional costs that the buyer must pay when purchasing a property in the Netherlands. They are not included in the purchase price and must be paid out-of-pocket. They typically amount to around 5–6% of the property's value.

1. Overdrachtsbelasting – Transfer Tax

• Amount: 2% of the purchase price.
• Exemption: For first-time homebuyers under the age of 35.

2. Notariskosten – Notary Fees

Fees for the official notary documents:
• The deed of transfer (akte van levering)
• The mortgage deed (akte van hypotheek)

3. Hypotheekadvies – Mortgage Advice

Fee for financial advice and support in finding and arranging a mortgage.

Makelaarscourtage – Real Estate Agent’s Commission
Fee for using the services of a buying agent when purchasing a home.

4. Taxatie – Property Valuation

A property valuation performed by an independent appraiser is required by the bank to approve the mortgage.
Banks in the Netherlands finance up to 100% of the appraised value – not necessarily the purchase price.

5. Bouwkundige keuring – Technical (Structural) Inspection (Optional)

Recommended especially for older homes. It provides an assessment of the property's technical condition.
It is best to have this inspection done before signing the purchase agreement or within the 3-day cooling-off period.

6. Bankgarantie – Bank Guarantee

If you do not pay the deposit (waarborgsom, typically 10% of the purchase price) yourself, your bank can issue a guarantee to the seller.

Cost: Approximately 1% of the guaranteed amount.

7. NHG – National Mortgage Guarantee (Nationale Hypotheek Garantie)

A national scheme that provides extra security for both the buyer and the bank in case of payment difficulties.

• Benefits: Lower mortgage interest rate and more protection.
• Cost: One-time fee of 0.6% of the mortgage amount (e.g., €1,200 for a €200,000 loan).
• Eligibility limit: Only available for properties up to €450,000 (in 2025).

8. Sworn Translator

If you do not speak Dutch, a sworn interpreter/translator is required when signing the notarial deeds (ownership and mortgage) at the notary’s office.