Buying a Home with Homes for Expats: Your Questions Answered
Why should I use a purchasing agent in the Netherlands?
There are plenty of real estate agents out there calling themselves expat specialists.
But here is the thing. When you are moving your life, your family, your entire world into a new home in a new country, you need more than a pretty website and a few reviews. You deserve more than people claiming extensive experience or large support structures that, in reality, turn out to be no more than a one or two man show.
What you really want are professionals who have walked this road many times before, who truly understand the process inside out, who show up for you consistently, and who genuinely have proven experience navigating the Dutch housing market.
Purchasing agents are here to protect your interests as the buyer.
We make sure the property you choose is the right one, that nothing is overlooked, and that you are making a sound financial decision. From identifying potential risks, checking for foundation concerns or damage, reviewing ground lease conditions, to negotiating the best outcome and going over every detail in the contract, we are here to guide and protect you through every step.
We are expats too, so we genuinely understand the excitement, challenges and emotions that come with every move.
At Homes for Expats, we are proud to have helped hundreds of expats find their way home.
Behind every search, every viewing and every key handover stands a group of eight people passionate professionals who genuinely love what they do. We are there, right beside you at every step, driven by the joy of being part of your housing story. Our passion for people fuels us to deliver the best service in the industry, because to us, every move matters, every story matters, and every client matters.
This is not something we do casually on the side. It is what we live and breathe every single day, with complete focus, total dedication and a support system designed entirely around you.
So why settle when you can choose to work with the best expat team in the industry?
We would love to be part of your journey.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Generally speaking, home purchases take anywhere from six weeks on acceptance of a vacant property, up to six months from the start of the search to the key handover. If the seller still needs time to move out or is waiting for the transfer of their new home, the handover date is usually set to fit their timeline. The current industry norm is around three to four months for transfer.
During this time, we will guide you through every step of this exciting journey. From finding your dream home, to negotiating the offer, reviewing the purchase agreement, arranging the valuation and technical inspection, all the way to the final inspection and the all-important signing at the notary. We are here to make sure you feel supported, informed and confident with your housing journey from start to finish.
How do you submit an offer to buy a home in the Netherlands?
There are two main ways offers are made in the Dutch housing market.
The first is by a closed deadline. All interested parties are asked to submit their best offer, with their best possible conditions, by a certain date and time. You have a one-time opportunity to make your best offer with best possible conditions. There is no room for negotiation. That is why it is so important to prepare properly and present a well-structured and serious offer.
The second is through open negotiation. This happens more often outside of high demand areas, or when the seller is open to negotiating. In this case, we present your offer directly and can negotiate the price and conditions with the selling agent.
No matter how the offer is presented, we will guide you through the process in a clear and concise manner. We will help you understand the true value of the home, how to structure your offer, what terms to include, and how to protect yourself every step of the way.
What types of insurance do I need as a homeowner?
There are five types of insurance we usually recommend for homeowners in the Netherlands. Some are mandatory depending on your situation, and others are strongly advised for your own protection.
Building insurance (opstalverzekering) – Mandatory if you are buying a house with a mortgage. This protects the physical structure of the property. If you are buying an apartment, this is usually arranged and covered by the VVE.
Contents insurance (inboedelverzekering) – Strongly advised. This covers your personal belongings such as furniture, electronics, clothing and valuables.
Liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering) – Strongly advised. This protects you if something in your home causes damage to another person’s property — for example, if your washing machine leaks into your neighbour’s flat.
Glass insurance (glasverzekering) – Sometimes required by the lender. This covers damage to windows and glass doors. If it is not mandatory, we still advise having it in place.
Life insurance (overlijdensrisicoverzekering) – Often required if you are applying for a mortgage, especially as a couple. This protects the surviving partner by helping to cover the mortgage in the event of death.
We will make sure you know exactly what is required and what is simply wise to have in place. We can also connect you with trusted providers who offer fair rates and clear advice so that you are fully protected from the start.
Renting with Homes for Expats: Your Questions Answered
Which areas do you cover?
When should I start my rental search?
We always recommend getting in touch with us 12 weeks before your move. This gives us time to discuss what you are looking for, explain the market and get everything in place. The best time to start actively looking is around 8 weeks before your move in date. The earlier we start, the more we can do for you.
Can you assist me in finding a rental before I arrive in the Netherlands?
Absolutely, and we do this often. Many of our clients secure their new home from abroad. We attend the viewings, take detailed videos or do video calls with you, ask the questions that need to be asked, and advise you honestly on what we think is a good fit. You will not have to guess or feel uncertain. We will make sure you know exactly what you are getting before you sign anything. And if we wouldn’t live there, we most certainly wouldn’t put our clients there. This is the Homes for Expats promise.
What types of rental properties are available?
Most rental properties in the Netherlands come in one of three forms
Unfurnished (kaal) – often just walls and concrete floors
Semi furnished (gestoffeerd) – usually includes flooring, curtains and light fixtures
Fully furnished (gemeubileerd) – ready to move in with all the furniture and essentials you need
We will always explain clearly what is included and help you decide what works best for your lifestyle and situation.
Can you help me set up utilities and internet?
Yes. We work with trusted partners who can arrange your energy, water, internet and insurance in one go. It is quick and transparent, and we will guide you through each step.
Most providers in the Netherlands require a Dutch bank account to set up services, as payments are usually made through automatic debit. The good news is that you can open a Dutch bank account even if you do not have your BSN yet. ABN AMRO, ING and Bunq all allow internationals to open an account first and submit the BSN within 90 to 120 days after opening. This means you can get everything in place for your utilities before you arrive or right after landing. We will walk you through the process and make sure nothing delays your move in.
What insurance do I need as a tenant?
There are three important insurances we advise for all our tenants
Contents insurance (inboedelverzekering) protects your belongings
Liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering) covers accidental damage to someone else’s property, for example if your washing machine leaks into the neighbour’s flat
Glass insurance (glasverzekering) covers damage to windows and is sometimes a requirement in your rental contract
All are affordable and easy to arrange, and we will guide you through what is necessary.
Relocation with Homes for Expats: Your Questions Answered
What relocation services do you offer?
At Homes for Expats, relocation is not just a service. It is a personal journey we are proud to walk with you. Whether you are moving from across the globe or just a few countries away, we are here to help you feel supported and confident from the start.
We specialise in helping internationals rent or buy a home in the Netherlands, and we support employers with housing for international employees. But we also know that finding a home is just one part of moving. That is why we work closely with trusted partners who can assist with immigration, international removals, tax, schools, banking and registration.
If you need help opening a bank account, finding the right school, or registering with the gemeente, we will guide you or connect you with someone who can. You will never feel like you are doing it all alone.
We are expats too, and we know how to help this move feel like a fresh start. Not just another long list of things to figure out.
What relocation partner services can you connect us with?
At Homes for Expats, we know that moving to a new country is about more than finding the right home. That is why we work with a trusted network of partners who can support you with everything around the move.
We can connect you with:
Utilities providers who will set up your energy, internet and water quickly and clearly
Schooling specialists who can guide you through local and international school options and application processes
Experienced international movers who handle your belongings with care and know the ins and outs of Dutch customs and logistics
Immigration lawyers who are familiar with expat routes including the DAFT visa and can give you clear, honest advice
You do not need to do this alone or figure it out on your own. We have done this ourselves and helped hundreds of others do the same. We will point you in the right direction, connect you with the right people, and stay right beside you as your move takes shape.
Do you provide after move support to help clients settle in?
Yes, we do. For us, your move does not end the day you get the keys.
We are always here to help with setting up utilities, recommending local services, explaining how things work, or just answering those everyday questions that come up in a new country. Whether you need advice about parking permits, waste collection or where to find a great gym, we are happy to help.
We want you to feel settled, welcome and confident in your new home and your new life here.
Do you offer corporate relocation packages?
Yes, we do. And every package is tailored to suit your company and your employees.
Whether you are relocating one person or an entire team, we will build a solution that works for you. We support with property searches, rental agreements, purchase assistance, registration and relocation guidance. You will have a single point of contact throughout, and we will make sure your employees feel cared for, informed and supported at every stage.
Your people are in good hands with us, and your company can rely on us to get it done properly — with care, experience and complete professionalism.
DAFT VISA Homes for Expats: Your Questions Answered
Can I buy a home on the DAFT visa?
Yes, you can. We have helped many American clients buy homes in the Netherlands on the DAFT visa and we know exactly what is needed to get your purchase approved.
Banks in the Netherlands are familiar with the DAFT visa, but not all lenders treat it the same. Some will ask for extra paperwork or additional proof of income. That is why it is so important to work with the right mortgage advisor, someone who understands your situation and knows how to present your file clearly.
We will connect you with trusted advisors who have real experience helping DAFT clients. From the very beginning of your search to the day you pick up your keys, we will guide you through it all. You will always feel supported, informed and looked after. Buying a home on the DAFT visa is absolutely possible. You just need the right people beside you. See more on housing for DAFT visa holders.
Can we rent a property if we are coming over on the DAFT visa?
Yes you can. We have helped many clients relocating to the Netherlands under the DAFT visa and we know exactly what is needed to get your rental approved. As part of the process, we will explain what documentation landlords are likely to request and how to best present your file to increase your chances. While every landlord is different, we know how to put forward a strong application and position you as a serious and reliable tenant. If you are relocating under the DAFT visa, you are in the right place. We have the experience and network to help you find a home that truly fits.
Can you assist with DAFT visa relocation?
We most certainly can. We work with DAFT visa clients every day and we know exactly what kind of support is needed.
We will connect you with experienced immigration lawyers, reliable international movers, and other professionals who understand the DAFT visa process inside and out. At Homes for Expats, we will guide you through finding the right home to rent or buy, explain the market clearly, and make sure your housing journey is smooth and stress free.
If you are relocating to the Netherlands on the DAFT visa, you are in the right hands.