How to prepare before viewing homes in the Netherlands

Before viewing homes in the Netherlands, it helps to understand your budget, mortgage options and housing preferences. Knowing how much you can afford, which locations suit your needs and what to look for during a viewing can help you make informed decisions and prepare for the next steps in buying a home.
Speak with a mortgage advisor

Speak with a mortgage advisor
Why your borrowing capacity matters

Understand your budget before attending viewings

Before attending property viewings, it is important to understand how much you can afford to borrow and how much of your own money you may need. In the Netherlands, mortgages are generally limited to 100% of a property’s appraised market value, with exceptions for eligible energy-saving improvements.

Your maximum mortgage also depends on your income and existing financial commitments. If the purchase price exceeds the property’s appraised value, you may need additional savings to cover the difference. Other purchasing costs generally require your own funds as well.

Understanding your borrowing capacity helps you:

  • Focus on properties within a realistic price range.
  • Allow for additional purchase costs and potential overbidding.
  • Make more informed decisions when considering an offer.

A mortgage calculation provides an initial estimate, but your actual borrowing capacity depends on your circumstances and the lender’s assessment.

Estimate your borrowing capacity
Why early mortgage preparation can help

Prepare your mortgage before you start viewing

Speaking with a mortgage advisor before attending property viewings can help you understand your financing options and prepare for the mortgage application process. An advisor can help you:

  • Explore suitable mortgage options: compare mortgage types and lenders based on your circumstances.
  • Identify required documents: understand which income, employment or residency documents you may need.
  • Understand lender requirements: identify potential challenges, particularly if you have foreign income or a temporary employment contract.

Preparing in advance can help you avoid unnecessary delays if you find a suitable property. It also gives you a clearer understanding of the steps involved before making an offer.

Discuss your mortgage options
Choosing the right location and property

Defining your housing preferences

Before attending property viewings, consider which locations and property types best suit your needs. Think about commuting times, neighbourhood characteristics, property size and access to public transport.

For expats, other considerations may include proximity to international schools, local amenities and how long you plan to stay in the Netherlands.

Distinguishing between your essential requirements and personal preferences can help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that suit your circumstances.

Questions to ask during a property viewing

What to check during a property viewing

When viewing a property in the Netherlands, it is important to look beyond its appearance. Buyers have a duty to investigate the property’s condition (onderzoeksplicht), so asking the right questions can help identify potential risks and future expenses.

Important points to check include:

  • Maintenance and renovations: when major work was last carried out and whether repairs are needed.
  • Property condition: the roof, windows, heating system and any signs of damp or structural problems.
  • Energy efficiency: the property’s energy label and insulation.
  • Leasehold (erfpacht): whether the property is on leasehold land and what costs or conditions apply.
  • Homeowners’ association (VvE): monthly contributions, maintenance plans and available reserve funds if you are buying an apartment.

If you have concerns about the property’s condition, consider arranging a professional building inspection (bouwkundige keuring) before committing to the purchase.

Getting ready to make an offer

Preparing documents before making an offer

If you find a suitable property, being financially prepared can help you move forward with confidence. Before making an offer, it is important to understand your budget, have the relevant documents ready and consider the conditions you want to include.

Key preparations include:

  • Confirming your budget: know your maximum purchase price and how much of your own savings you can contribute.
  • Gathering mortgage documents: prepare relevant income, employment and financial information for your mortgage application.
  • Discussing financing conditions: consider including a financing condition (voorbehoud van financiering) to protect yourself if your mortgage application is unsuccessful.
  • Considering a building inspection: decide whether an inspection or a building inspection condition is appropriate before committing to the purchase.

A mortgage advisor can help you assess your financial readiness before submitting an offer.

Get mortgage advice before making an offer
Support throughout the viewing and buying process

Mortgage guidance for expats buying a home

At FVB de Boer Mortgages, we support expats throughout the process of buying a home in the Netherlands. Our advisors help you understand mortgage options, determine your borrowing capacity, compare lenders and prepare financially before you start attending property viewings.

If you would like to discuss your situation, we can provide personalised guidance based on your plans and financial position.

Speak with an expat mortgage advisor
Frequently asked questions about

Preparing for property viewings in the Netherlands

Can I start viewing homes before arranging a mortgage?

Yes, you can start viewing homes before arranging a mortgage in the Netherlands. However, understanding your borrowing capacity beforehand can help you focus on properties within your budget and act more quickly if you decide to make an offer.

Should I speak with a mortgage advisor before viewing homes?

Yes, speaking with a mortgage advisor before viewing homes can help you understand how much you may be able to borrow and what your budget is. An advisor can explain your mortgage options, estimate your borrowing capacity and indicate which documents lenders may require, helping you move more quickly if you decide to make an offer.

What should I check during a house viewing in the Netherlands?

During a house viewing it is important to check the general condition of the property and key practical details. Buyers commonly look at:

  • The overall maintenance and condition of the property.
  • Insulation and the energy label.
  • The condition of the roof, windows and installations.
  • Whether major renovations have recently been carried out.

If the property is an apartment, it is also advisable to ask about the homeowners’ association (VvE), including the monthly contribution and the building’s maintenance reserve.

How many property viewings do buyers usually attend?

The number of property viewings varies depending on the housing market and your personal preferences. Some buyers find a suitable home after only a few viewings, while others may visit many properties before making a decision, especially in competitive markets where attractive homes can receive multiple offers shortly after viewings.

Do I need to prepare documents before making an offer?

It is not always required, but preparing your financial documents in advance can help speed up the buying process if your offer is accepted. Mortgage lenders may ask for documents such as proof of income, employment details and information about your existing financial obligations to assess your mortgage application.

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