More and more expats prefer to buy a house in the Netherlands rather than rent. Consider high rental costs, owning a home maybe more appealing. However, there are specific rules and considerations for expats when buying a house.

At Arslan Advocaten, we regularly assist expats in buying a home in the Netherlands, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you won’t experience any unpleasant surprises.

Can an expat buy a house in the Netherlands?

Yes, expats can buy a house in the Netherlands, regardless of their nationality. However, additional considerations apply:

• Mortgage provision: Banks sometimes apply stricter conditions for expats.

• Residence status: Expats with a temporary contract or residence permit sometimes do not get full financing.

• Tax benefits: Expats who use the 30% ruling can still deduct mortgage interest under certain conditions.

• Legal support: The purchasing process in the Netherlands is strictly regulated by purchase agreements and notarial deeds.

Step-by-step plan for buying a house

1. Arrange financing – determine how much you can borrow and under what conditions.

2. Make a bid – usually subject to conditions precedent (financing, structural inspection).

3. Sign the purchase agreement – within 3 days of signing, you have the option to reconsider.

4. Notarial deed and registration – The transfer is officially arranged at the notary.

5. Registry of Deeds – The property is officially in your name.

Practical examples

• Example 1: An expat from India wanted to buy an apartment in The Hague. The bank imposed additional requirements because his residence permit was temporary. Legal advice resulted in the bank providing the mortgage with a guarantee from the employer.

• Example 2: A U.S. expat bought a home in Amsterdam but later found out about leasehold conditions. Thanks to legal intervention, renegotiation with the municipality was achieved.

• Example 3: An expat from Spain signed a purchase contract without having a building inspection. When he later discovered defects, he had to pay high costs. With our help, part of the damage was recovered from the seller.

Checklist for expats who want to buy a house

• 📑 Have your employment contract and residence status checked for a mortgage application.

• 💶 Check if you can get mortgage interest relief despite the 30% ruling.

• 📜 Carefully read the purchase agreement and leasehold conditions.

• 🛠️ Always have a building inspection carried out.

• ⚖️ If in doubt about legal pitfalls, hire a lawyer.

Why Arslan Advocaten?

• Experience with expat purchase processes

• Guidance on mortgage conditions and legal documents

• Support in disputes with sellers or notaries

• Clear explanations in understandable language

FAQ about buying a house as an expat

1. Can I buy a house as an expat without a residence permit?
Yes, ownership is allowed. But without a residence permit, financing can be difficult.

2. Can I get mortgage interest relief with the 30% ruling?
Yes, in most cases, as long as you are liable to pay tax in the Netherlands.

3. How much personal money do I need as an expat?
Banks often require expats to contribute more personal money than Dutch employees.

4. Can I buy leasehold-free?
Yes, but leasehold structures are common in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Always check this.

5. Will legal support cost me extra as an expat?
No, at Arslan Advocaten we have fixed and transparent rates.