Buying a home in the Netherlands, explained in English
The Dutch buying process is documented mostly in Dutch, and the parts that cost money are the parts nobody explains. These guides cover them, with the official source named for every figure.
Kosten koper: what buying a house in the Netherlands actually costs
What kosten koper (k.k.) covers in the Netherlands: 2026 transfer tax rates, the starter exemption, notary and Kadaster fees, valuation, advice and NHG.
Overbidding in the Netherlands: how sealed-envelope bidding really works
How Dutch home bidding works: asking price as an invitation, sealed-envelope inschrijving, financing clauses, the 3-day cooling-off period and the 10% deposit.
The documents Dutch lenders ask for when you apply for a mortgage
What Dutch mortgage lenders ask for: employer statement, payslips, jaaropgave, ID and BSN, valuation report, and the extra papers expats and freelancers need.
Can you buy a house in the Netherlands without a BSN or permanent residency?
What non-Dutch buyers really need in the Netherlands: BSN and BRP or RNI registration, residence permits, what lenders ask for, and Dutch bank accounts.
Notary day in the Netherlands: what you sign and what it costs
What happens at a Dutch notary on transfer day: the two deeds, the final inspection, the settlement statement, interpreters if you do not speak Dutch, and fees.
Buying a house in the Netherlands without an aankoopmakelaar
What a Dutch buying agent does, what one costs, which parts of the job you can do yourself, and what you give up by buying a home without one.