Frequently Asked Questions about Mortgages in the Netherlands

01

What types of mortgages are available in the Netherlands?

The main types are annuity mortgages (annuïteitenhypotheek), linear mortgages (lineaire hypotheek), and, under strict conditions, interest-only mortgages (aflossingsvrije hypotheek). Each type has a different repayment structure and impact on your monthly payments.

02

How much can I borrow for a mortgage?

Your maximum borrowing capacity depends on your gross income, financial obligations, and the market value of the property. Generally, you can borrow up to 100% of the property’s value.

03

What is the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) and what are its benefits?

NHG is a government-backed guarantee that provides extra security for both you and the lender. It often results in a lower interest rate and can protect you if you cannot pay your mortgage due to circumstances like divorce, job loss, or disability.

04

Is mortgage interest tax-deductible in the Netherlands?

Yes, interest on your mortgage for your mainresidence is tax-deductible, provided the loan is used for buying or improvingyour home and is fully repaid within 30 years.

05

What additional costs should I expect when buying a house?

Expect to pay transfer tax (overdrachtsbelasting), notary fees, valuation costs, advice and mediation fees, and possibly a bank guarantee. These costs are usually 4–6% of the purchase price.

06

Can I get a mortgage if I am self-employed or a freelancer?

Yes, but you will need to provide extra documentation, such as annual accounts and tax returns for the past three years. Lenders typically assess your average income over this period.

07

How long does the mortgage application process take?

The process generally takes 4 to 6 weeks fromapplication to final approval, depending on your situation and the lender’srequirements.

08

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

Commonly required documents include proof of income, recent payslips or annual accounts, identification, bank statements, and details of the property you wish to buy.

09

Can I repay my mortgage early without penalty?

Most lenders allow you to repay up to 10–20% of the original loan amount per year without penalty. Early repayment above this limit may incur a fee.

10

What happens if I can no longer pay my mortgage?

Contact your lender as soon as possible. With NHG, you may be eligible for support. The lender will try to find a solution, such as a payment arrangement or, as a last resort, selling the property.

11

How does energy efficiency affect my mortgage options?

Energy-efficient homes may allow for a higher borrowing limit and sometimes qualify for a lower interest rate. There are also special loans and subsidies for making your home more sustainable.

12

What is the difference between an annuity and a linear mortgage?

With an annuity mortgage, your monthly payment stays (almost) the same, but the interest portion decreases over time. With a linear mortgage, you pay off a fixed amount of the principal each month, so your monthly payments decrease over time.

13

Can non-residents or expats get a mortgage in the Netherlands?

Yes, many banks offer mortgages to expats and non-residents, though extra conditions and documentation may apply.

14

How do interest rate periods (rentevaste periodes) work?

You can fix your interest rate for a certain period (e.g., 5, 10, 20 years). During this period, your interest rate and monthly payments remain stable.

15

What happens if I want to move before my mortgage term ends?

You can usually take your mortgage with you to a new property (portability), or you may need to repay your mortgage early, which could involve a penalty depending on your lender and contract.

Frequently Asked Questions about Insurance in the Netherlands

01

What types of insurance are available in the Netherlands?

The most common types are health insurance (mandatory), car insurance (mandatory for vehicle owners), home insurance (building and/or contents), liability insurance, travel insurance, life insurance, legal expenses insurance, funeral insurance, and pet insurance. Some are required by law, others are optional but widely recommended.

02

Which insurances are mandatory?

Everyone living or working in the Netherlands must have basic health insurance. Car owners must have at least third-party liability insurance. For homeowners with a mortgage, building insurance is usually required by the lender, though not by law.

03

What is basic health insurance and what does it cover?

Basic health insurance (basisverzekering) covers general practitioner visits, hospital care, specialist care, prescription medication, maternity care, and some medical equipment. You can add supplementary insurance for things like dental care or physiotherapy.

04

What is liability insurance and is it compulsory?

Personal liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering) covers damage you accidentally cause to others or their property. It is not compulsory but highly recommended. Liability insurance for motor vehicles (WA-verzekering) is compulsory for vehicle owners.

05

What is home insurance and what does it include?

Home insurance typically includes building insurance (opstalverzekering) for the physical structure and contents insurance (inboedelverzekering) for your belongings. Building insurance is often required for homeowners with a mortgage; contents insurance is important for both owners and tenants.

06

What is the difference between building and contents insurance?

Building insurance covers the structure of your home (walls, roof, fixtures), while contents insurance covers movable items inside your home (furniture, electronics, clothing). Both can usually be combined in a single policy.

07

What is the deductible (eigen risico) and how does it work?

For health insurance, the deductible is a fixed amount you pay yourself each year (currently €385) before the insurer starts covering costs. Other insurances may also have a deductible, which can vary by policy.

08

Can expats and non-residents get insurance in the Netherlands?

Yes, expats and non-residents can take out most types of insurance. Health insurance is mandatory for anyone living or working in the Netherlands. Many insurers offer information and policies in English.

09

What additional insurances are common or useful?

Optional insurances include travel insurance, legal expenses insurance, life insurance, funeral insurance, pet insurance, bicycle insurance, and accident insurance. These provide extra protection depending on your lifestyle and needs.

10

What should I do if I need to make a claim?

Contact your insurer as soon as possible, provide all requested documentation (such as receipts or police reports), and follow their procedures. Your policy will outline what is covered and any conditions for claims.

11

How do I choose the right insurance policies?

Assess your personal situation (homeowner or tenant, car owner, family status), legal requirements, and risks you want to cover. Compare policies, premiums, coverage, and deductibles. Seek advice if needed, especially for complex situations.

12

Are there combined insurance packages?

Yes, many providers offer bundled packages (e.g., home, contents, and liability insurance) at a discount. This can simplify administration and sometimes reduce costs.

13

What happens if I move abroad or leave the Netherlands?

You may need to cancel or adjust your policies. For health insurance, coverage generally ends when you deregister from the Netherlands or stop working here. Always inform your insurers of your new situation.

14

How much do insurance premiums cost?

Premiums vary by type of insurance, coverage, value of insured items, location, and personal risk profile. For example, basic contents insurance starts at around €50–€150 per year, while building insurance averages €150–€250 per year. Health insurance premiums are set annually.

Frequently Asked Questions about Personal Loans in the Netherlands

01

What is a personal loan?

A personal loan is a fixed-term loan where you borrow a lump sum and repay it in equal monthly installments over an agreed period, with a fixed interest rate.

02

What can I use a personal loan for?

You can use a personal loan for almost any purpose, such as home improvements, buying a car, consolidating debts, or financing a major purchase. The lender may ask about the purpose, but you are generally free to decide.

03

How much can I borrow with a personal loan?

The amount depends on your income, existing debts, age, and credit history. In the Netherlands, personal loans typically range from €2,500 to €75,000.

04

What is the typical interest rate for a personal loan?

Interest rates vary depending on the loan amount, your financial situation, and the lender. Rates are fixed for the duration of the loan and are usually between 4% and 10% per year.

05

What is the maximum term for a personal loan?

The term usually ranges from 12 to 120 months (1 to 10 years). The maximum term may be limited by your age at the end of the loan period.

06

What are the main differences between a personal loan and a revolving credit?

A personal loan has a fixed amount, fixed term, and fixed interest rate. A revolving credit (doorlopend krediet) allows you to withdraw money up to a limit, repay and redraw, and the interest rate can vary.

07

Can I repay my personal loan early without penalty?

Most lenders in the Netherlands allow you to repay your personal loan early, either partially or in full, without penalty. Always check the terms of your specific loan.

08

What documents do I need to apply for a personal loan?

You typically need proof of identity, recent payslips or income statements, bank statements, and information about existing loans or debts.

09

How long does it take to get a personal loan approved?

Approval can be quick—often within a few days if all documents are in order. Some lenders offer same-day approval for smaller amounts.

10

How does my credit score affect my loan application?

Lenders check your credit history with the BKR (Bureau Krediet Registratie). A good credit score increases your chances of approval and may result in a lower interest rate.

11

Are there any additional costs with a personal loan?

Most personal loans have no setup or administration fees. The main cost is the interest. Always check if there are any extra charges in the loan agreement.

12

What happens if I cannot repay my personal loan?

If you miss payments, you may incur extra costs and it will negatively affect your credit score. The lender may take legal action to recover the debt.

13

Can expats or non-residents get a personal loan in the Netherlands?

Yes, but you usually need to be registered in the Netherlands, have a stable income, and sometimes a permanent residence permit. Requirements vary by lender.

14

Is the interest on a personal loan tax-deductible?

No, the interest paid on a personal loan is not tax-deductible, except in very specific cases (e.g., if the loan is used for home improvement and meets strict criteria).

15

How do I choose the best personal loan?

Compare interest rates, terms, total costs, early repayment options, and customer service. Use comparison websites or seek advice if needed