OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE

House: When buying a traditional house, you own the property top to bottom. You will also usually own the land the property is on.  However, some properties in the Netherlands (and definitely within the Amsterdam city limits) may come with a ground lease (erfpacht), meaning you lease the land from the municipality. Be sure to check if this applies, as it can lead to additional annual costs.

Apartment: Buying an apartment usually means you own a share of the building along with exclusive rights to the individual unit. You will often have a ground lease (erfpacht) for a percentage of the land your building is build on. You’ll also be part of a Vereniging van Eigenaars (VvE), or Homeowners’ Association, which manages the shared areas and building maintenance; this means you will be expected to attend yearly meetings and vote on communal decisions.

COSTS AND FEES

House: Besides the purchase price, you’ll need to budget for ongoing costs such as property taxes, maintenance, and possibly higher utility bills compared to an apartment.

Apartment: There are additional costs associated with apartment ownership, including monthly service charges (VvE contributions) that cover communal maintenance, insurance, and other shared expenses. These fees can vary widely depending on the size and condition of the building.

MAINTENANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

House: You handle all maintenance of the property, including the garden and exterior.

Apartment: Maintenance responsibilities for the exterior and shared areas are managed by the VvE. You are financially responsible for the interior of your unit.

SIZE AND SPACE

House: Offers more space both inside and outside, including a garden or yard. This might be appealing if you have a family or prefer more privacy.

Apartment: Typically smaller and might not include private outdoor space, although some apartments come with balconies or terraces.

REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS

House: Fewer restrictions on alterations and renovations, giving you more freedom to change your property.

Apartment: Renovations are subject to VvE rules, and major changes often require approval from the association. This can sometimes limit the extent of modifications you can make.

MARKET CONSIDERATIONS

House: Houses might be more desirable in suburban areas and for those seeking a quieter environment or more space.

Apartment: Apartments are often in city centers or urban areas, which can be appealing for those who prefer proximity to amenities and public transport.

INVESTMENT POTENTIAL

House: Often viewed as a stable investment, especially if it’s in a desirable location with potential for appreciation in value.

Apartment: Can be an excellent investment, particularly in popular city areas where rental demand is high. However, be mindful of the VvE’s financial health and any upcoming major expenses.

FINANCING AND MORTGAGES

House: Usually straightforward, though some lenders may have specific conditions for different houses. Where applicable, financing decisions will take ground lease (erfpacht) into consideration.

Apartment: Financing might be slightly more complex because of the shared ownership and VvE. Lenders will often look at the financial health of the VvE and any outstanding debts or upcoming major repairs. Financing decisions will take ground lease (erfpacht) into consideration.

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS

House: You’ll deal primarily with local regulations and property laws.

Apartment: You’ll need to navigate the rules of the VvE, which can include attending meetings and taking part in decision-making processes.

It’s crucial to understand the differences between purchasing a house or an apartment. It’s recommended to seek advice from professionals to ensure that you make an informed decision based on your needs and lifestyle.

Even if it’s not required, having coverage in place can be a vital safeguard for your family’s financial future. Understanding the connection between life insurance and mortgages is key to navigating the Dutch real estate market with confidence, ensuring both financial security and peace of mind. Below, we’ll explore how these two elements intersect and why their relationship is crucial for anyone investing in property. 

MORTGAGE PROTECTION

One of the primary reasons for having life insurance when you take out a mortgage is to protect your family and ensure that the mortgage debt is covered in the event of your death. In the Netherlands, many mortgage lenders require life insurance as a condition for granting a mortgage. This requirement safeguards both the lender and the borrower’s family, ensuring that the mortgage will be repaid even if the borrower passes away before the loan is fully settled.

TYPES OF LIFE INSURANCE RELEVANT TO MORTGAGES

Term Life Insurance (Overlijdensrisicoverzekering): This is the most common type of life insurance linked to mortgages. It provides a lump-sum payment to your beneficiaries if you die within the policy term. For a mortgage, this means the insurance can pay off the outstanding loan balance, relieving your family from financial strain.

Endowment Policies: Endowment policies combine life insurance with a savings component. They provide a lump sum payment at the end of the policy term or upon death, which can pay off the mortgage. These are much less common these days. But for those with existing endowment policies, it’s important to review whether they still meet your financial goals, but for new buyers, term life insurance is usually the preferred choice.

Combination Policies: Some insurers offer policies that combine life insurance with mortgage protection. These policies are specifically designed to cover mortgage debt and often include additional benefits or options tailored to homeowners.

HOW LIFE INSURANCE AFFECTS YOUR MORTGAGE APPLICATION

When applying for a mortgage, lenders often require proof of life insurance to approve the loan. The requirement serves as security for the lender, ensuring that the mortgage will be repaid regardless of unforeseen circumstances. This requirement can affect the type of mortgage you qualify for and the terms of the loan.

The presence of a life insurance policy can also influence the terms of your mortgage. For instance, having adequate life insurance may allow you to secure more favourable loan terms or a higher loan amount, as it reduces the risk perceived by the lender.

BENEFITS OF LINKING LIFE INSURANCE WITH YOUR MORTGAGE

1. Financial Security for Your Family

In the event of your death, life insurance ensures that your mortgage will be paid off, thus protecting your family from having to manage mortgage repayments on their own. This financial cushion can be especially important if you have dependents or if your family relies on your income to cover living expenses.

2. Peace of Mind

Knowing that your mortgage will be covered in case of an unexpected event provides peace of mind. This sense of security can ease stress and allow you to focus on enjoying your new home and life in the Netherlands without worrying about the financial implications of your death.

3. Potential Cost Savings

Some mortgage and insurance providers offer bundled products or discounts for combining life insurance with a mortgage. Exploring these options could cause cost savings or added benefits.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT POLICY

1. Assess Your Needs

When selecting a life insurance policy for mortgage protection, consider factors such as the amount of mortgage debt, the needs of your dependents, and your overall financial situation. The coverage amount should be sufficient to fully pay off your mortgage if you pass away.

2. Compare Options

Different insurers offer various policies with varying terms, conditions, and costs. Comparing these options can help you find a policy that fits your needs and budget.

3. Consult a Professional

Balancing your premiums with the amount of coverage needed to fully repay your mortgage in the event of your death can be complex. Additionally, life insurance needs to fit into your overall financial strategy, particularly if you have dependents. Getting help from a professional will help you to make sure you’re looking at all available options and making the right decisions for your financial situation.

The connection between life insurance and mortgages in the Netherlands is critical to securing financial stability for homeowners and their families. Life insurance provides essential protection, ensuring that mortgage debt is covered in the event of your death and offering peace of mind to you and your loved ones. By understanding the interplay between these two elements and seeking professional advice, you can make informed decisions supporting both your homeownership goals and your family’s financial security.

For personalized guidance on choosing the right life insurance policy for your mortgage, contact Arjen at 06 43 03 02 71 or arjen@teamconcepts.nl.

UNDERSTAND MORTGAGE PORTING

Mortgage porting allows you to keep your existing mortgage when moving to a new property. This can be a big advantage if you have a low interest rate or specific mortgage terms you want to keep. However, it’s important to note that not all mortgages are portable, and mortgage lenders will often require you to do a new mortgage application. This means that they may request a new financial assessment based on your current situation, so make sure to do your research before jumping in.

CHECK YOUR MORTGAGE TERMS

Check to see if your mortgage contract includes a portability clause which outlines whether you can transfer your mortgage to a new property and under what conditions. Make sure you understand the specific terms related to porting, such as any fees, adjustments to the loan amount, or changes in interest rates. Porting your mortgage allows you to keep your current mortgage for the original loan amount, but remember that any additional borrowing (for a more expensive property, for example) may come with different terms. Your mortgage lender can provide guidance on eligibility and any potential changes to your mortgage terms.

DETERMINE THE NEW PROPERTY’S VALUE

Get an appraisal of the new property to determine its market value. Mortgage lenders will ask for a property valuation as part of the mortgage porting process. This ensures that the new property meets the lender’s loan-to-value (LTV) ratio requirement, keeping your current mortgage in mind.

EVALUATE THE MORTGAGE AMOUNT

If the new property is more expensive than your current home, you may need to arrange additional financing. Your lender will provide options if you need to top up your mortgage. Remember: any additional borrowing might not come with the same interest rate.

APPLY FOR MORTGAGE PORTING

Prepare your documentation. You will need:

Proof of income to demonstrate your ability to repay the mortgage.
All documents related to the new property, including the purchase agreement and appraisal report.
Any information about your existing mortgage, including the current balance and terms.

SUBMIT APPLICATION

Request and complete the mortgage porting application form provided by your lender. This form will detail your request to transfer the mortgage to a new property. Your lender will review your application, assess the new property, and determine if porting is feasible. Again, this process may include a new assessment of your financial situation.

FINALIZE THE PORTING PROCESS

1. Approval and Terms

Once your lender approves the porting request, they will provide a new mortgage offer that includes the terms for the new property. If applicable, the lender will outline any adjustments to the mortgage, such as changes in interest rates or loan terms.

2. Sign the Agreement

Have the new mortgage agreement reviewed by a legal advisor to ensure all terms are clear and favourable. Sign the new mortgage agreement with a notary. The notary will handle the legal aspects of transferring the mortgage and registering it with the Land Registry.

3. Transfer and Completion

The notary will oversee the transfer of ownership for the new property and the porting of the mortgage. Ensure that all financial transactions are completed, including paying off any remaining balance on the old mortgage (if applicable) and completing the new mortgage.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

Porting Fees: Be prepared to pay administrative fees or appraisal costs as part of the porting process.

Early Repayment Charges: If you’re paying off part of your existing mortgage early, check for any early repayment charges that may apply.

Interest Rate Changes: If the terms of your new mortgage differ from your current terms, such as a change in interest rates, assess how this will affect your monthly payments and overall mortgage costs.

Tax Implications: Consult a tax advisor to understand any tax implications of porting your mortgage, including potential deductions or liabilities.

BOTTOM LINE

Porting a mortgage in the Netherlands can be a strategic way to move to a new property while retaining your original mortgage terms. By understanding the specific terms of your current mortgage, ensuring the new property meets lender requirements, and carefully evaluating the additional costs, you can navigate the porting process smoothly.

If you’re unsure whether porting your mortgage is the right option or need help navigating the complexities, it might be time to consult with a mortgage advisor. They can help you assess your options, ensure your financial health meets lender requirements, and find the best solutions tailored to your situation.

Ready to explore your options? Contact Arjen today by phone at 06 - 43 03 02 71 or email (arjen@teamconcepts.nl) to book a free, no-strings consultation.

DON’T BUY THE FIRST HOUSE YOU SEE

You may be one of those extremely fortunate people who find their dream home on the first try and live there happily for years to come. You may also end up being one of those less fortunate people who purchase their dream home, regret it but are stuck pouring money into it with no other choice. Always shop around before you settle on a property ESPECIALLY if this is your first time buying in the Dutch market. Don’t take risks, play it safe.

DO LOOK BEYOND THE PROPERTY

So you think you’ve found your dream home – it’s got the right sized kitchen, the perfect garden, a spare bedroom, and that bathtub you’ve been dreaming about. But have you given its location the same consideration? If you have children or want to start a family in the near future, you may want to make sure you’re in a good school district without a rowdy pub at the end of the road. If you don’t drive, you may want to make sure you have easy access to public transport, and that there’s a supermarket or corner shop nearby.

DON’T GO TO VIEWINGS ALONE

It doesn’t matter if you’re purchasing a property for one person or six, never go to viewings alone. A second set of eyes that you trust should always be welcome. You’ll be looking for things that are personal to you, but other people will see other things. Bring a friend or family who knows you well and has sharp instincts. And if you really want to be taken seriously by sellers, invite your buying agent along!

DO GET THE BUILDING INSPECTED

The buyer is legally responsible for checking a property for defects in the Netherlands. If you purchase a house and then realise that there are issues with it, it’s on you. Technical inspections are often required when applying for a mortgage, too. You may be the most thorough person in the world, checking off a list of six hundred points, but a professional will always see something you haven’t. Independent inspectors can also check the house for structural issues that might need attention sooner than later.  So be sure to get the building inspected by a trusted professional – if you’re not sure who to hire, ask your mortgage advisor or buying agent for a good recommendation.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE EXPENDITURE

Stay realistic about what you can afford and remember that purchasing your property is not your only expense. When it comes to mortgages, you don’t have to withdraw the maximum amount. Yes, you are entitled to the maximum, but the mortgage is not the only expenditure you’ll have after you’ve purchased your house. You still need to pay for renovations, insurance, municipal and property taxes, etc., and your monthly bills. And you want to be able to live a good life (filled with fun adventures) so you’ll want to keep yourself some money to live off afterwards. The bank will also only cover the appraised market value, so if you’re bidding on a property, don’t go over your budget. Be responsible with your money.

DO VISIT THE PROPERTY MORE THAN ONCE

You might want to visit your top three properties a couple of times before you pick which one to purchase, but definitely have multiple visits to the house you want to turn into your home. When you look over a property you love a second or third time, you’ll remember to ask questions and check for things you forgot in previous viewings. You’ll spot things you didn’t notice before. AND, more importantly, those rose-coloured glasses will come off and you’ll be able to see the property more objectively.

DON’T SIGN ON THE DOTTED LINE WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING EVERY WORD

This is a life rule people often forget. Especially expats assuming a contract in the Netherlands will be the same as a contract outside the Netherlands. It’s not! Make sure you understand every word of the contract before you sign – and if you don’t understand it, then be sure to get help from an impartial third party.

DO ASK FOR HELP

The Dutch housing market offers brilliant opportunities but in order to make the most out of them, you need to a) understand them, and b) ask professionals for their advice. It’s always better to be safe than sorry so get those experts in! An independent property inspector can make sure that you’re not overpaying on a property or picking somewhere with structural issues that will eat away at your bank account next year. An independent mortgage advisor can make sure that you are getting the best deals and guide you in your search. A legal advisor can help you understand the jargon and make sure you’re not signing a contract that will bite you in the long run.

Are you buying your first home? There’s a lot to consider before buying your dream home. Here are the five most common mistakes to avoid.

NOT DOING YOUR RESEARCH

It’s easy to go down the path of someone you know or pick something like a mortgage based on an advertisement you’ve seen a thousand times. This may not be the right path for you, though. Shop around!

Don’t just look at different properties in different locations, look at different mortgages, at different mortgage lenders. Make sure you understand every little detail, from purchase costs to sustainable mortgages to construction deposits (bouwdepot).

Better still, book a meeting with an independent mortgage advisor and let them help you find the best mortgage for you!

FORGETTING THAT EXPENDITURE IS MORE THAN JUST THE HOUSE

Owning a home has more expenditure than new homeowners tend to think. It’s not just the cost of the house you’re buying. It’s the cost of the mortgage, the leasehold (where applicable), the monthly homeowners’ association (VvE) fees, the price of renovations (where applicable), the cost of the technical inspection, insurance, water and garbage tax, property tax, and so on.

Not all of this expenditure is a one-off payment, either. One of the biggest mistakes new buyers make is forgetting all this and setting an unreasonable budget without any breathing room. It often leads to disappointment when the mortgage application comes around. This is where independent mortgage advisors can be of real value.

They can help you calculate how much money you’ll need for each stage of the process – from mortgage to renovations and everything in between – determine your budget, and help you search the market for the best mortgage for you now and in the future.

TRYING TO CUT COSTS

It’s understandable that first-time buyers want to cut costs where they can but, more often than not, they cut the wrong costs. Picking a property that needs work because it’s cheaper, and trying to do the renovations without the help of professionals, are both common mistakes. In the long run, you may be spending far more money fixing up your new home than if you were to just spend that little bit more when purchasing it.

Independent mortgage advisors help you determine what you can afford, compare multiple mortgage products from multiple mortgage providers to find the best match for you and provide you with clear information on all your options without bias.

A little bit of extra spending now can help you save a fortune in the future.

FOLLOWING EMOTIONS INSTEAD OF LOGIC

It’s easy to get caught up in a house that isn’t practical. To get excited during a bidding war and pay more than you’d planned to, or to get frustrated by the process and give up.

It’s also easy to fall in love with a house’s location, layout, and furniture without remembering that the house is staged to show you your dream home. Think things through! Look past the façade. Don’t make decisions based on your emotions alone.

NOT TAKING THE FUTURE INTO ACCOUNT

No one knows what the future will hold, but if you’re buying a property, you likely have a 3-, 5-, or 10-year plan for your life. Perhaps you want to get a dog in the next few years and know that you prefer a larger breed rather than a small one. Maybe you want to start a family one day soon. Your parents may be getting older and you’re thinking about having them move in with you if things get too much for them living alone. These are all things in the future that you ought to be considering now.

Buying a property is very different from renting, you’ll probably stay much longer in a property you own than a property you rent. Don’t buy a property just because it fits your needs at this very minute – think about whether it will fit your needs in the coming years too.

The buying process isn’t something you have to do alone. An independent mortgage advisor can be a huge asset when making some of the decisions you need to make. If you’re not sure where to start the process, contact me for a free consultation to find out where to start.

BONUS DOWNLOAD: Home Viewing Tips for Expats

So-called ‘green mortgages’ provide benefits to buyers when a property is either already sustainable (with a specific energy label) or if there are renovations done to positively change the energy label of the property. In this article, we’ll break down three benefits of sustainable mortgages in the Netherlands.

\In an effort to slow down climate change, the Paris Agreement requires all signed parties (195 countries including the Netherlands) to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 to achieve net zero by 2050. As part of the national climate plan, the Dutch government has stipulated that at least 1.5 million homes must be made sustainable by 2030. There are a number of initiatives in place, including subsidies, to make the shift to sustainability both attractive and attainable for homeowners and homebuyers. 

Let's get into the three ways you can qualify for a sustainable mortgage!

1. Better energy efficiency for your mortgage interest

An energy-efficient home is well insulated, uses heat pumps instead of gas, and uses solar panels contributes to climate change by reducing their emission of greenhouse gasses. In the Netherlands, every property has an energy label that determines how energy-efficient it is. This label is based on three main factors: 

• How much energy does the property need per year to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature?
• How much fossil fuel is used to heat the property per year (including appliances such as water heaters)?
• What percent of energy in the property comes from renewable sources such as wind and solar?

The higher the energy label, the more efficient it is. 

In The Netherlands, many mortgage lenders offer lower interest rates if you have an energy-efficient home. In the current market, that difference can mean hundreds of euros per month depending on your mortgage. 

2. Lower energy costs for a larger maximum mortgage

We have seen the cost of living in the Netherlands go up by nearly 10% in just one year. Additionally, we are in a gas crisis which has raised gas prices exponentially. An energy-efficient home also provides property owners with financial benefits. To start, monthly energy costs are much lower for an energy-efficient home than one that is not. With proper insulation of the walls, roof, and windows, a property will use much less energy than a property that is poorly insulated. 

This is because a poorly insulated home will seep heat through the walls, roof, and windows, and require the heating to be on continuously. A well-insulated home, on the other hand, will keep the heat in and stay warm for longer periods of time. 

Insulating your property can help to improve your energy label and makes you eligible for lower mortgage interest rates. These two factors have a direct effect on the maximum mortgage you can borrow. 

3. Big (energy) plans for a bigger borrowing capacity

Properties with good energy labels are considered hot commodities on the housing market. They are often valued higher and sell fast. This makes the search for a home much more difficult for many people because the properties that stay on the market and are more affordable often have quite low energy labels. 

However, if you have plans to make the property you’re buying more energy efficient you can borrow 106% of the loan-to-value. The loan-to-value of a property is normally capped at 100%. 

Bottom line

Green mortgages include the above-mentioned various parts of the housing puzzle to provide benefits to property owners that play an active role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Do you want to know if you qualify for a green mortgage? Contact me today for a free consultation: https://www.teamconcepts.nl/en/contact-us 

In the Netherlands, there are no penalties for selling a property before the mortgage term ends. It’s actually quite common for people in the Netherlands to sell their homes long before they’ve paid off their mortgages. 

Find a buyer

Of course, the most important step to selling your home is having someone who is ready to buy it. It’s important that you go through the selling process and have an agreement with a potential buyer. Once you’ve signed the purchasing contract, agreed upon the transfer date, and determined the terms that need to be met (by both parties) for the sale to go through, you are ready to speak to your mortgage lender. 

Get permission from your mortgage lender

It may sound daunting to have to ask permission from your mortgage lender in order to sell your home. Don’t worry, you will often get a resounding yes from your mortgage lender. The only condition where your bank might deny your request is if, for whatever reason, the selling price is less than the debt you still owe to the bank. 

In these situations, which are rare these days, your mortgage lender might still agree to the sale under the condition that the remainder of the debt is repaid via another loan. 

Visiting the notary

When both parties have met the conditions of the sale, you will head to the notary to sign the necessary documents. Once all is signed, the buyer’s mortgage lender will pay the notary. From that fee, the notary will repay the remainder of the mortgage to your lender, your selling agent’s commission (generally 1%), and their own fee. If there is anything left over, that money will be transferred to your bank account. 

This is the short version of the story as these processes tend to take time and documentation in order to go through. Are you looking for a mortgage to purchase your next home and need advice? Contact me today to book a free consultation.

When you buy a new property, it’s important to check whether it has erfpacht. Look at it like this: When you buy a property, you sign a contract of ownership for the house, and a lease contract to live on the piece of land your property occupies. 

Ground rent, or canon

As with any other type of lease, a ground lease means that you (the owner of the property), pay a fee to the municipality (the owner of the land the property occupies). Payment is called ground rent, or canon. The canon amount is attributed to both the type of property (and exists for residential and business properties) and the location. For example, a home in Zuidoost will owe less canon than a corporate office in the middle of Centrum.

Types of leasehold: continuous or perpetual

Continuous leasehold

A continuous leasehold is true to its name: it is continuous and only adjusted every 50 or 75 years. Near the end of the time period, or tijdvak, the municipality will recalculate the value of the property and make adjustments to the ground rent. The change in the value of a property is directly related to the change in the amount of the canon. Sometimes, especially in today’s market, it can mean a sudden increase in canon.

Perpetual leasehold

A perpetual leasehold, too, is true to its name: once a ground rent is determined, it remains fixed in perpetuity (small caveat: in perpetuity here generally means for 100 years). The ground rent, or canon, will not be recalculated or adjusted based on the property valuation; though it will be adjusted for inflation yearly. 

Does a leasehold affect your mortgage?

When buying a new property, it’s imperative to know if your property has a leasehold. If so, whether the leasehold is continuous or perpetual. Essentially, you need to know if the leasehold has been paid off in full or if there is an annual fee. When it has been paid off, it has no recurring fees and thus will not affect your borrowing capacity. But a leasehold with annual fees will be brought into your mortgage calculation and affect your maximum loan capacity. 

Hopefully, this article has provided some insight into Amsterdam’s leasehold situation. Interested to learn more about what erfpacht means for your next property? Contact me today for a free consultation.

Residence requirements

Like any other potential borrower, you’ll need to be registered to live in The Netherlands and be able to provide your citizen service number (BSN) and documentation to support. 

If you are an EU/EEA (European Economic Area) citizen, your BSN should be enough. If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you are required to have a valid residence permit (verblijfsverguinning). 

Residence permit types

There are temporary and non-temporary residence permits. 

With a temporary residence permit, there are very few mortgage lenders who will approve you for a mortgage. If you are in the Netherlands as a highly skilled migrant (kennismigrant) – this type of permit is often obtained when you are being sponsored by your employer – there are plenty of options for you! Many mortgage lenders will approve you for a 100% loan-to-value mortgage based on your income. 

With a non-temporary residence permit, such as a permanent residence, you can generally get approved for a mortgage with minimal difficulty. 

Minimum residence duration

In theory, you could move to the Netherlands today and apply for a mortgage tomorrow. However, some mortgage lenders may have special conditions based on how long you’ve lived in the Netherlands. For example, mortgage lenders may require you to have lived in the Netherlands for at least 6 months (or more) before approving you for a loan. 

It's possible that other conditions apply to you based on your country of origin. Contact Team Concepts for a free consultation to learn more.

With so many different things to pay attention to, it’s easy to get lost in the finer details. To help you, we’ve put together a checklist (with free download) of the costs to consider when buying a property in Amsterdam. 

Mortgage advice

It’s no secret that starting the home buying process begins with your mortgage advisor! An independent mortgage advisor like Arjen at Team Concepts will keep your best interest in mind when helping you figure out your personal financial situation and your borrowing power. 

Cost (average): €2,000-€3,500

Cost (Team Concepts): €2,495

Buying agent

In today’s market, a buying agent is basically a must-have. Having a buying agent on your team will not only help you to understand the market better, but it will also significantly increase your chances of submitting a winning bid. A buying agent knows what similar properties are selling for, so they can offer practical advice on how much you should bid. It also shows sellers that you’re serious about purchasing their property. 

Cost: 1% of property purchase cost + 21% VAT

Home inspection (bouwtechnishe keuring)

A home inspection is done by a third party. It lets you know the state of the property, including any minor or major issues that may need attention in the immediate or near future. Home inspections are often required by mortgage lenders to help assess risk.

Cost: €500+

Transfer tax (overdrachtsbelasting)

In The Netherlands, property transfer tax must be paid when buying an immovable property (such as a residential plot or home) and/or the rights to immovable property (such as building and planting rights and leasehold).

Cost: 2% of the property purchase cost

Exemptions: under 35 for first home under €400,000; new builds (vrij op naam).

Property valuation report

A third-party realtor does property valuation to determine the value of the property. Mortgage lenders require a property valuation report in order to accept a mortgage application. 

Cost: €600+ 

Notarial fees

A notary is the only person who can prepare the legal documents needed to transfer the ownership of a property. They are the one who draws up the mortgage deed and deed of transfer of title, and sets the official date of transfer. 

Cost: €1000+

Nationale Hypotheek Garantie (NHG) 

The National Hypotheek Garantie (NHG) is a Dutch mortgage scheme which lowers the risk of an owner-occupied residential property for both the owner and the mortgage lender. The NHG is only eligible for properties that cost €355,000 or less. 

Cost (if applicable): 0.6% of the property purchase cost

Furnishing and/or renovations

When you move into a new place, it’s not uncommon to spend money on DIY (such as painting, laying new floors, etc.) or professional renovations (such as renovating the bathroom or kitchen to your taste). You’ll also probably want to buy fresh furniture or appliances to put in your beautiful new home! These upgrades and renovations can run up a hefty bill.

Cost: €10,000 on average, can be more or less

Moving (with movers)

When doing a big move, like consolidating two households or moving into your second property, many people choose to hire movers. Having movers do the heavy lifting saves a lot of energy for you to put into unpacking and decorating your new home. 

Costs: €1750+

Claim your free Homebuyer's Checklist download here.

The Bottom Line

Hopefully this article has given you the information you need to start planning your finances. For example, you can save some money if you do all the moving yourself, and even more if you don't need to buy new furniture or do renovations immediately. In the end, the extra costs you make will depend on both the price of the property and the choices you make. Are you ready to start the journey to buying a new home? Contact Arjen today for a free consultation at arjen@teamconcepts.nl.

If you’re in the market for a new home in Amsterdam, you’ve probably heard about the bidding system. Essentially, sellers will plan a number of viewings of a property and set a deadline by which interested parties must provide their best bid. You might think that the highest bid will always win, but that’s not always the case.

Sure, overbidding has become the norm – so much so that it happened on approximately 80% of transactions in 2021 – and the higher you bid, the better chance you have to win the bid. But there are other things involved, too. 

Property prices and your bid

If you’re working with a real estate agent, they will help you decide the best bid and resolutive terms for you and the property you’re bidding on. The first and most important thing to know for sure is that you’re serious enough about a property to pay a little more than you had expected to.

In order to win a bid, you need to know what the value of the house is, what properties with the same perks and in the same neighbourhood have sold for recently, and what you’re willing to compromise on. 

Often, the value of the house has more to do with the actual market than with the property itself or its WOZ value. If a similar property with the same square meterage, similar location, and was built at the same time had an asking price around €585,000 and sold for €615,000, it’s likely that you will have to be open to making a similar bid. 

Most importantly, how you decide on a final number for your bid will depend on the maximum mortgage you are approved for, competition (which is especially high in Amsterdam), and ultimately what the seller wants for the property.

What to include in your bid

What you eventually send to lock in your bid can be boiled down to two points: 

1. The actual bid (in €)
2. Your suggested resolutive conditions

What are resolutive conditions?

Have you ever been on Funda and seen the words “Verkocht onder voorbehoud”, or in North American terms, “Conditional sale”. This means that, in order for the sale to go through and the contracts to be signed, both parties have agreed upon a few terms. It’s important to define your conditions in your bid so the seller has all the information they need to make a decision for the sale of their property. These conditions will come into play when your bid is accepted and you’ve signed your purchase agreement. Let’s go through the four types of resolutive conditions as defined by ABN AMRO: 

“Subject to securing financing”

This resolutive condition is preferably capped no later than 4 weeks after the bid is accepted. It’s no secret that there are a lot of details that need to be combed out before you are approved for your mortgage. You’ve probably already had a conversation with a mortgage advisor by now and have chosen the lenders you’re most interested in. Once you’ve made that decision, you need to have the property appraised by a professional in order for the mortgage lender to confirm the loan-to-value and the size of your mortgage. It’s important to mention not only that you will secure financing, but how much financing you expect to secure. Should you fail to get financing in the time agreed upon in this clause, the sale will be nullified. 

“Subject to satisfactory inspection”

With so many older homes in Amsterdam, many over 100 years old, it can be a good idea to add this resolutive condition to the sale. A technical inspection, or “bouwkundigekeuring”, gives you a detailed look at the technical specifications of the property. If there are any unexpected deficiencies in the property, you can cancel your purchase.

“Subject to defects not exceeding x amount”

Some deficiencies may not be cause to cancel your purchase. You can set a maximum repair cost with this resolutive condition. This price will be provided in your technical inspection. If there are defect but the repairs will cost less than say €3,000 and you’re willing to do them yourself (or hire a handyman, of course), you can choose to continue with purchase. 

“Subject to transfer date”

The agreed upon date for the transfer of the house will be included in the contract. The purchase will be cancelled if the seller cannot adhere to the date agreed upon.

The bottom line

The bidding process can be really intense. And you may have to go through it many times before you actually submit the winning bid. But what’s important is that you have all the information you need and that you are confident in the choices you make. When the price, resolutive conditions, and time is right, you will be screaming from the rooftops that you just won the bid on your dream property!

If you’re ready to talk about your finances and the possibilities for a mortgage, contact me for a free consultation.

The housing market in Amsterdam is piping hot right now. There are fewer properties for sale in the municipality than in the last few years and still a large number of buyers on the market. This supply and demand issue means that you have to be quick on your feet and willing to pay top dollar for a property.

If you’ve been paying attention to the market at all in the last year, you’ll know that the asking price is just a starting point, on average properties are selling at about 12% more than asking. The most common procedure is through a bid. The selling agent organizes viewings over the course of a few days to a week. They set a date and time for interested parties to submit their best offer for the home including price and condition. This can be a daunting process, but there are many ways you can prepare for it.

Get your finances in order

One of the best ways to show a seller how serious you are about buying a property is to make sure you have all your finances in order. Getting in touch with a mortgage advisor when you’re first starting to think about buying a home is an essential step! Your mortgage advisor will help you assess your personal finances including salary, monthly spending, savings, etc. With this information, they can calculate your maximum mortgage. This is valuable information once you start looking seriously at properties!

Know what you can spend

It’s important to know that the asking price of a home is always just a suggested starting point. As mentioned above, you can expect to offer 12% or more than asking in order to win the bid for the property.  

Mortgage lenders will look at the value of the property based on the property assessment by an approved appraiser. This can have a big impact on your finances! Since the maximum mortgage you can be approved for is based on the loan-to-value of the property, you need to be prepared to bring in your own cash. Especially since there are many costs associated with buying a house such as transfer tax, real estate agent fees, notarial costs, etc.

Here’s an example of what you can expect:

Winning bid = €670,000

Property value = €615,000

Maximum mortgage = €615,000

Buyer’s own investment = €55,000 + extra costs

Hire a buying agent

In today’s market, buyers are taken more seriously when they provide their bid through an agent. This is a signal to the sellers that the buyer is taking the process seriously and have all the information they need in order to make an informed decision. Having an experienced real estate agent on your team is a huge asset for expats who are unfamiliar with how the bidding and buying process works in Amsterdam and The Netherlands in general.

Hiring an agent does come at a cost, but shouldn’t be more than one percent of the purchasing price of your new property. Don’t hesitate to shop around until you find someone that you really click with! This is a big investment and ultimately can make all the difference for a winning bid on your next home. 

Have an honest conversation

One of the best ways to know what a seller wants is to simply have a conversation with them. Don’t be afraid to ask how much they want to get for the property or if there are any conditions they would like a buyer to meet, like a quick close or specified moving date. Having this information helps you make an informed decision about whether a property is right for you.

Be unforgettable!

Selling a property can be just as emotional as buying one. Try to share some information with the seller that gives them an idea of who you are and why this property was made for you. Perhaps this was the neighborhood you stayed in when you first came to Amsterdam and have fond memories here. Or maybe your (grand)parents live just a few streets away. Providing these little details lets a seller know that buying the property is filling a gap that only this property could fill. 

At the end of the day, you want to make a good impression on the sellers of the property you have your eye on, whether it be with financial preparedness or a personal story. Are you thinking about buying a new home? Curious about what size of mortgage you can be approved for? Email Arjen at arjen@teamconcepts.nl today for a free consultation! 

As a continuation of our first maximum mortgage article, we're going to look at 5 more things to keep in mind when preparing yourself financially for a mortgage.

Remember: Banks want to keep their risk low, so applicants who have lower risk are more attractive, though some banks are willing to take on higher risks clients under certain circumstances. There are a few things that might make a difference in your loan-to-income / borrowing capacity.

Monthly expenses

Your mortgage advisor and eventual mortgage lender will want to know exactly how much money you have to put aside for your general monthly expenses like insurance, car payments, etc. Considering your monthly income and these expenses, your mortgage advisor can help you see exactly how much you can budget. Take the time to think about which of these monthly expenses are mandatory (like insurances) and which could be dropped (like app subscriptions).

Student debt in The Netherlands

If you studied in The Netherlands and started repaying your student loans before and up to 2015, your monthly repayment was assumed to 0.75% of the debt. With a few changes to the student loan repayment in 2015, the monthly repayment is now assumed to be about 0.45% of the cost of the loan. 

This means that on a student debt of €30,000, your monthly repayment is estimated at €187,50. That number, whatever it is, will be subtracted from your monthly disposable income. If you’ve paid down a good chunk or have some money saved, it might be worthwhile to pay it off and free up that monthly disposable income!

Consumer debt

In The Netherlands, consumer debt is registered in the Dutch Credit Registration Office (BKR). Mortgage lenders will request access to your BKR registration. Your information will provide them with information on the level of risk of non-payment. Your BKR registration shows outstanding debts like monthly credit card payments, private lease contracts (like a car), buying in monthly installments (like using Klarna or buying a phone on contract). If a mortgage lender sees that, on top of your necessary monthly expenses, you have consumer debts to repay, you will be at higher risk of non-payment of your mortgage. 

Factor in leasehold

When you’re looking for a new home, especially in the Amsterdam region, it’s important to double check if the property is lease- or freehold. Most properties in Amsterdam are leasehold, this means that you required to pay a yearly amount to the municipality to use the land your property is on (yes, that includes apartments!). This, too, can impact your loan-to-income capacity. 

Fixed-rate interest period

Take into consideration the fixed-rate interest period. With the current increase of mortgage interest rates, when you choose a fixed-rate period of 10 or more years, the current interest rate will be taken into the total calculation. At 10+ years fixed, the interest rate that you lock in now is guaranteed for the length of the fixed rate. 

The more information you have, the better understanding you’ll have of your own financial situation and what you can expect from a mortgage. 

Ready to get started with your mortgage application process? Contact Arjen today for a free consultation!

The maximum amount of mortgage you can get is 100% of the cost of the house you want to buy. If you are looking at a €500,000 house, you can effectively borrow €500,000. However, the amount of money you can borrow from the bank is based on a number of factors, the most important being your personal finances.

Salary

The first and most important thing to take into consideration for your mortgage is that the higher your income, the higher the mortgage you’re able to take out. You can take out a mortgage alone or with a partner. Should you choose to take a mortgage out with your partner, 100% of your salary but only 90% of your partner’s salary will be taken into the mortgage calculation. Banks will often prefer a registered partnership or marriage when two people are applying for a mortgage together. 

Foreign income

Some banks will happily approve a for someone who works outside of The Netherlands so long as they receive their salary in euros in their Dutch bank account. 

Should you work outside of The Netherlands and receive your salary in another currency, Dutch banks will usually only calculate 90% of your salary to make up for fluctuations in currency. 

Tax status

As someone who lives in and is officially registered in The Netherlands, you might still have a partial non-resident tax status. This means that though you are living in The Netherlands, you may still be paying taxes in your home country or the country where your business is located, depending on the tax treaties that exist between your home country and The Netherlands. It’s important to know exactly what your tax status is and how it might affect your maximum mortgage calculation.

30% Ruling

Simply put, the 30% ruling is a special benefit applied to some highly skilled employees living in The Netherlands. Essentially, it means that you can get 30% of your income tax-free. Your take-home salary ends up being higher with the 30% ruling and can have a big effect on your borrowing capacity. 

Type of employment

There are a few things to take into consideration when looking at the type of employment you’re in. The first question is simple: are you employed by a company or are you an entrepreneur? 

If you are employed, it’s important to then look at the type of contract you have. If you have a temporary or fixed contract, a letter of intent from your employer can go a long way for getting your mortgage. 

If you are an entrepreneur, your work history and the length of time you’ve been an entrepreneur will have a big impact on the amount of money you can borrow.

These are just 5 things that you should keep in mind when it comes to securing your mortgage. The more details you have, the better understanding you’ll have of your own financial situation and what you can expect from an eventual mortgage.

Ready to get started with your mortgage application process? Contact Arjen today for a free consultation!

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of deductibles that all (expat) homeowners should be sure to add when filing their income tax returns.

Expat specific tax deductibles

If you are an expat working in The Netherlands, you may be eligible for the 30% ruling. This can not only help you get a mortgage, but it will also affect the amount of income tax you have to pay. Your mortgage advisor can help you find out if you are eligible for the 30% ruling and what the positive impact it will have on your taxes.

Purchasing (or refinancing) tax deductibles

Mortgage advice and financing fees

A mortgage advisor is a great asset to your homebuying experience to make sure that you have all the necessary documentation and information you need to get a mortgage. These fees can be anywhere from €2500 or more.

Bouwdepot

If you have arranged a loan to cover the costs of a renovation before your move, the financing costs and interest are also included your tax deductibles.

Appraisal report fees

To secure a mortgage, mortgage lenders require you to provide an appraisal report (or taxatierapport) from an official appraiser. This is usually a qualified, third-party real estate agent and usually costs around €600.

Fees for the notary and cadastral rights of the mortgage deed:

You will need a notary to legalise your mortgage deed and register you in the Dutch cadastral registry. Notarial fees can be upwards of €1000.

National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) application fees

For properties that are €355,000 or less, you may be eligible for the NHG. The application costs 0,6% of the total value of the mortgage.

Refinancing penalty fees

Penalties for early repayment or cancellation of a mortgage for refinancing.

Mortgage interest

Any interest payments in the fiscal year on linear or annuity mortgages are included (and deductible) here. If you have a tax partner and each of you own a home, you can only deduct the mortgage interest from one of your properties and it must be owner-occupied.

Leasehold fees

Leasehold is very common in Amsterdam and you will likely pay a monthly or yearly fee.

Bottom line

It’s also important to note that there are some expenses associated with homebuying that are not deductible. These are, namely, real estate agent fees, property transfer tax, and ground lease buyout fees.

Do you want some advice about your tax deductibles? Or are you ready to buy a home in 2022? Book a free consultation with Arjen, today!

Among other trends in the Dutch mortgage industry, buy-to-let mortgages have become more and more popular among expat buyers. Some homeowners do this when they need to go abroad for work for an extended period or want to move out of the big city. Others are looking to move in with partners.  There’s a lot to take into consideration with buy-to-let mortgages, here are 8 things to keep in mind!

1.     Get permission from your bank

Banks are required to know what’s in their portfolio, so it’s imperative that you not only inform but also get permission from your bank to let out a property that has a mortgage on it. This is important because if a mortgage deed says a property is owner-occupied, it must indeed be occupied by the owner.

2.     Own contribution required

If you are buying a property on a buy-to-let mortgage, be aware that you can never borrow 100% of the property value. For buy-to-let you can only borrow 70%- 90% of the property in rental condition, meaning that you will be required to contribute from savings or other equity.

3.     Higher interest rates

Buy-to-let mortgages often have interest rates of 1 to 1.5% higher than an owner-occupied mortgage. With buy-to-let mortgages, you’re looking at about 2.5 to 3.0% interest for a ten-year fixed rate.

4.     Registration and nationality requirements

In order to be eligible for a buy-to-let mortgage, you must be registered and work in The Netherlands. European Nationality or residency conditions may apply.

5.     Minimum income required

The minimum income needed for a buy-to-let mortgage is €45,000.

6.     No owner residency allowed

If you own an investment property on a buy-to-let mortgage, you are not allowed to live in the property as a resident. This means that you cannot have a buy-to-let mortgage on a home that you live in and are renting out a room/floor of. Should you want to move into the property, you will need to refinance your mortgage to an owner-occupied, residential mortgage.

7.     Long-term rentals only

Financial providers will only accept mortgage applications for long-term rentals. This means no Airbnb or short-term rentals (ex. summer only). Take this seriously! Ignoring the conditions could lead to large fines or even being forced to sell the property!

8.     Purchase protection rules vary per city

Every city has their own rules regarding whether you can buy a property to let. In Amsterdam, for example, properties with a property valuation under €512,000 cannot be bought to let. Your mortgage adviser can help you find the right information for the area you want to buy-to-let in.

Want to more about buying to let in Amsterdam and beyond? Contact Arjen today.

WOZ value, or property valuation

The value of all real estate is assessed according to the Valuation of Immovable Property Act (Wet Waardering Onroerende Zaken, or WOZ). The WOZ value of a property is used to calculate taxes, such as property tax (onroerendezaakbelasting). 

As of January 1st 2022, rather than taking the gross total content of the home into consideration, the new WOZ waarde is calculated based on usable area, or gebruiksoppervlakte. This means a shift to the property valuation system commonly used by real estate agents and appraisers to ensure that there is a better synergy between the two.

Eigenwoningforfait, or notional rental value

The Dutch tax authority sees homeownership as a type of income and so homeowners must add a taxable amount — namely the eigenwoningforfait (or notional rental value) — to their income. The notional rental value is calculated as a percentage of the property valuation (or WOZ value) of your house.

The notional rental value (NRV) in 2025 for properties with a value between 75,000 and 1,130,000 is 0.35%.

The NRV is based on the WOZ value of the year before so let’s take the average Amsterdam WOZ value in 2023 of € 512,269.

If the WOZ value of your property was € 512,269 in 2023, your notional rental value in 2024 is 0.35% x €  512,269 = € 1,792.

You must add the notional rental value of € 1,792 to your Box 1 income on your tax return. So if your income was €55,600 in 2024, you’ll have to actually submit €57,392 in Box 1 of your 2024 income tax return.

To make sure that you fully understand how these numbers affect you and your financial situation, it’s always good to have a mortgage adviser on your side. Contact us today and Arjen will be happy to answer any questions.

The most common types of mortgages for expats in Amsterdam are the linear mortgage (lineaire hypotheek) and the annuity mortgage (annuiteiten hypotheek). So, what’s the difference?

Linear Mortgages

Linear mortgages tend to start with much higher monthly payments. This is because you are contributing a consistent repayment as well as interest fees. The interest fees will be highest when you start repaying the mortgage, but will decrease over time as you repay more and more of your total mortgage. Your overall interest payment is lower with a linear mortgage.

Annuity Mortgages

Annuity mortgages have the same monthly payments throughout the course of the repayment period. The difference here is that you are paying a fixed monthly fee. To start, a higher percentage of your monthly fee will go towards interest and the rest will go to your mortgage repayment. Gradually, this will balance out so that you monthly payments have a lower percentage of interest payment and higher percentage of repayment.  Your overall interest payment is higher with an annuity mortgage, but interest paid is tax deductible.

The type of mortgage that suits you better always depends on your financial situation, the risks involved, and what is available to you. Interested in finding out your best options? Contact me today.

In today’s real estate market, especially in Amsterdam, expats find that they can’t compete for the picture-perfect house or apartment. Instead, many expats choose to buy a fixer-upper, a property that needs a little bit of TLC before they can call it home. Luckily, there are a few different ways to finance a home renovation.

Start saving, now!

Simply put, start putting away money immediately.

With renovation costs being 1200 per m2 on average, make sure you’re thinking far ahead and starting to put away pennies where you can spare them.

Think about what you definitely need, like checking the foundation of the property and replacing old, single-glazed windows. Think about what you’d like to have, like new floors and/or furniture. And finally think about what you’d love to have if you could afford it, like refitting the bathroom.

Get a bouwdepot (or construction deposit)

One of the most common ways to finance a renovation is to arrange for a construction deposit.

First, it’s important to remember that your mortgage will never be greater than 100% of the property value. Unless you are renovating for energy savings or greener energy, in which case the mortgage can be 106%!

To determine the property value, most financial loan institutions will request a taxation report from a third-party realtor. This is one of the documents required to determine the value of the mortgage. You can ask for a taxation report to specify whether and which renovations would lead to a higher property value. This extra information will give your mortgage provider the information they need to decide whether a larger mortgage for the purpose of renovation is feasible for your situation.

Once your mortgage and construction deposit are approved, you’ll receive the construction deposit in a separate account, which is generally open anywhere between 6 and 24 months. During your renovations, you will get plenty of invoices that need to be paid. You simply provide them to the bank to be paid on your behalf. Or, if you’ve already paid them with your own cash or savings, you can request a return.

Remember that you can close your construction deposit account at any time. In case your renovation is finished before the agreed-upon term or the funds have been used. If your renovation takes longer than planned, you can usually extend the duration of your deposit for a set amount of time in consultation with your mortgage adviser and provider.

Savings + bouwdepot

There’s a reason we mentioned savings at the start of this article. That’s because often, the cost of the home and the cost of the renovation will not be fully covered by the mortgage. This can be due to several factors, such as your financial situation or the state of the property you want to buy and renovate. Keep in mind that you will often need to contribute to the purchase of your property.

Not to worry, Arjen will keep your best interest in mind when helping to determine if the property you’re eyeing will fit within your financial situation. And whether a bouwdepot is the right choice for you. Ready to get stuck into your finances with an expat mortgage expert? Contact Arjen today!

Mortgage interest predictions

With a new year, an ever-changing market, and (finally) a new cabinet in place, Dutch mortgage holders aren’t wrong to expect an increase in the average interest rate on mortgages. Van Bruggen predicted 3 possible scenarios we could expect:

The first and most likely prediction was that we’d see an average increase of 0.2 to 0.4%. If the economy remains on its steady growth trend and the strong competition in the mortgage market, homebuyers and owners could expect to see an equal increase in market and mortgage interest rates. As predicted, we saw mortgage interest prices jump 0.25 to 0.35% in February (depending on the mortgage's fixed-rate period, of course) with the expectation that the increases would continue as the year continues.

The second prediction was that we'd see a larger jump in mortgage interest rates, between 0.5 and 1%. Despite the pandemic, we’ve already seen a huge 6% inflation rate across the world. The normal yearly average is about 2%! The European Central Bank insists this is a temporary rise in inflation, but the Dutch Central Bank expects the market inflation rate to stay above 2% for a longer period. When the inflation rate is structurally higher, (mortgage) interest rates were predicted to eventually increase to match, though such a steep increase wasn’t expected to happen in Europe quite yet. However, we did indeed see more record-breaking highs as the days and weeks passed. Van Brugge's latest report shows an increase of 1% or more for nearly all types of mortgages. Below is a comparison between the average mortgage interest rate between February and today based on Van Brugge's reports:

1.1% increase in 5-year fixed-rate mortgage interest between February (1.57%) and April (2.67%). 

1.2% increase in 10-year fixed-rate mortgage interest between February (1.69%) and April (2.89%).

1.25% increase in 20-year fixed-rate mortgage interest between February (2.10%) and April (3.35%). 

1.24% increase in 30-year fixed-rate mortgage interest between February (2.27%) and April (3.51%). 

The final and least likely prediction is that mortgage interest rates will stay the same or fall by up to 0.2%. With a hot real estate market and even hotter mortgage competition with the lowest margins we’ve seen in over a decade, the current situation proves that this prediction did not come true.

Mortgage interest deductible

For 2021, the highest mortgage interest deductible was 43%. As of 2022, this is decreasing to 40%, and further down to only 37% in 2022.

This is a change that makes a difference for people whose income falls in the highest income tax bracket, with an annual income above € 69.399. So above € 69.399, you’re paying 49,5% income tax on every euro more you make, but you can only deduct your mortgage interest at the new 40% rate.

Getting a mortgage and thinking about interest rates doesn’t have to cause you a headache. Arjen will help you understand both the market and your personal situation so that you’re more at ease with the purchase of a new property. Ready to explore your finances with an expat mortgage expert? Contact Arjen today!