Buying a house involves more than just the purchase price.
To help you prepare, we’ve listed the main purchase costs, financing costs, and optional costs – so you know exactly what to expect and avoid financial surprises.
If you buy an existing home, you cover additional costs yourself. These include:
✔️ Transfer tax
✔️ Notary fees (for the transfer deed)
✔️ Mortgage advice and brokerage
These costs are added on top of the property price.
With a new-build property, the structure is different. These homes are usually sold “vrij op naam,” meaning the transfer tax and notary fees are typically already included in the purchase price.
When purchasing an existing home for your own use, you pay a one-time 2% transfer tax based on the purchase price. This amount is settled through the notary.
Exemption for first-time buyers
If you’re between 18 and 35 years old and buying your first home for personal use, you may qualify for an exemption from this tax. To be eligible, you must:
Not have used this exemption before
Use the home as your main residence
Purchase a home priced no higher than €525,000 (2025)
Sign a declaration (submitted to the notary before the transfer)
The notary draws up both the transfer deed and the mortgage deed, and registers them with the Land Registry (Kadaster). A property cannot legally be transferred without a notary.
💰 Average cost: approximately €1,500 (depending on the notary)
As the buyer, you’re usually required to pay a 10% deposit of the purchase price.
You can either transfer this directly to the notary, or provide a bank guarantee instead.
💰 Typical cost for a bank guarantee: around 1% of the purchase price
To get mortgage approval, a validated appraisal report is required.
An independent, certified appraiser determines the property’s market value.
💰 Average cost: €700 – €800.
With an NHG mortgage, you benefit from extra protection and often a lower interest rate.
If you face financial difficulty (due to unemployment, disability, or divorce), NHG can act as a safety net.The maximum purchase price is €435,000 (2025) or €461,100 with energy-saving improvements. 💰 One-time fee: 0.4% of the mortgage amount.
An independent mortgage advisor works for you – not for the bank.
We compare dozens of lenders to find the mortgage that fits your goals and financial situation. You benefit from competitive rates, favorable terms, and personal guidance from start to finish.💰 One-time tax-deductible fee: €3,000 – €3,750.
Hiring a buying agent isn’t mandatory, but it can save you time and stress.
They can help with scheduling viewings, negotiating, advising on your offer, and checking legal documents – increasing your chances of a smooth purchase.
💰 Typical fee: around 1% of the purchase price.
A structural survey provides insight into the technical condition of the home.
It can reveal defects, deferred maintenance, and expected repair costs. This helps you make an informed decision – and gives leverage during negotiations if needed.
💰 Average cost: €350 – €400.
Don’t speak Dutch fluently? Then you are legally required to have a sworn interpreter during the notary appointment. This ensures you fully understand what you’re signing.
💰 Average cost: €350 – €400.
Some financing-related costs are tax-deductible when buying a home.
This can result in a significant tax benefit. Eligible costs include:
For a complete and up-to-date overview, visit the Dutch Tax Authority:
👉 belastingdienst.nl
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Mail naar: info@homefinancials.nl
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