Buying a house in the Netherlands

This is possibly the biggest decision you ever make regardless or where you come from and whether you are ready to settle in The Netherlands, however there are many pitfalls and the process can take a very long-time.

The first thing is to do as much research as possible and don't be tempted to take advice at face value because in my experience if they say it costs Euro100 you will end-paying at least Euro150, and if someone says it will be ready in a week, it won't be!

Start by doing your own search on the web using a site such as funda.nl and decide what you are looking for. Don't be afraid to se the website to arrange viewings and once you have a shortlist, approach your bank or a mortgage advisor.

Beware: Once makkelaars (estate agents) get involved you are "swimming with sharks" and they often have an ulterier motive for pushing towards a particular property or deal. Always check if the appartment/house is free or leasehold, and what the monthly costs are. Apartments in larger and older blocks often have very high monthly maintenance costs (Maankosten) though this can be balanced against the cost of paying for heating/hot water etc. Older properties may also have some very basic electrical equipment that has long since been banned in other countries e.g. old canister-style fuses, or extension leads chained together.

Many building must also have an energy certificate so always see if they can provide one. If possible do as much research about the area as possible and look-out for any planned developments such as building or widening the roads.

Walk round the area several times and try to as objective as possible.

Parking can be a nightmare so always pay close attention, and visit at weekends and during the evenings, because this is when their will likely be the biggest problems. I ended-up paying 11K for a space in a parking garage and Euro25/month maintenance (I think they mop it once a week? :) )

I went the independent route and found two really good advisors that helped me through the process.

Frank van Eijndhoven (Mortgage Advisor)
www.consiliumpersonalis.nl

Jaap Russchen (Helps you to select and buy a property)
www.amsterdamhousehunting.nl

The buying process can take a long time and cost more than you expect. Costs include:

2% transfer tax unless it is a new property (look for v.o.n).
Mortgage arrangement fees (from Euro3000 though this can go on the mortgage).
Other advice costs
Notary costs Euro1000+

When you finally buy your property you have to visit the notary to sign for it, and pay the purchase costs etc.