Early Access in Real Estate: What’s Really Going On?
In the Dutch real estate market, “early access” to listings is often promoted as a way for buyers to get a jump on new properties. But does this sneak peek truly give buyers an advantage? Here’s a breakdown of what happens behind the scenes.
How Early Access Works for Real Estate Agents
If your real estate agent uses Realworks and keeps clients in a centralized system, those clients may automatically receive a preview—a “sneak peek”—of new listings mostly one day before they go public. Established in 2004, Realworks is the first online CRM specifically for real estate agents in the Netherlands affiliated with trade bodies like NVM (Nederlandse Vereniging van Makelaars) or VBO (Vereniging Bemiddeling Onroerend Goed). Realworks provides agents with tools to manage listings, a mobile app, and the Move.nl platform with a bidding log.
When a new listing is created, here’s how it typically unfolds:
Shared Within the Agent Network: Listings are initially shared within Realworks so other agents in the network can see them. This preview helps agents prepare but is intended as an internal tool for professionals—not as a direct marketing opportunity for buyers.
Does Early Access Benefit Buyers and Sellers?
While early access can help agents gauge market interest, it doesn’t always offer the exclusive benefits some buyers may expect. Here’s why:
- For Sellers – Public Exposure Matters Most
Sellers tend to achieve the best results when their listing reaches the widest possible audience. Although an early preview helps agents prepare, the greatest visibility—and often the strongest offers—comes once the listing goes live on public platforms like Funda. This broad reach is key to attracting competitive bids.
- For Buyers – No True Advantage with Early Access
True competition for the property only begins when everyone can see the listing on public sites. While automated sneak peeks can provide a general sense of what’s coming up, this approach may lack the personalized attention some buyers need.
Some agents go a step further, handpicking listings that match their client’s specific needs, budgets, and preferences. This personalized method is often more effective, as it offers quality over quantity and aligns more closely with the buyer’s actual requirements, rather than just sharing every new listing that enters the system.
Is Early Access Misleading?
The term “early access” might give buyers the impression of exclusivity, but it primarily serves as a preparation tool for agents. Once listings go public, all buyers gain equal access, and the competitive process truly begins.
So, What Does Early Access Mean?
For buyers and sellers, early access is mainly an internal preview for agents, helping them prepare listings before they go live. Buyers should stay closely connected with their agents and be ready to act once listings go public. Sellers, on the other hand, benefit most from maximizing their audience through public listings, which is when genuine interest and competitive offers start to pour in.
In summary, while early access may sound appealing, it doesn’t change the essentials of successful buying and selling in the Dutch real estate market. In the Netherlands, “real estate agent” is not a protected title, and membership in a trade body like NVM or VBO is optional. For peace of mind, it’s always wise to work with a local, certified agent who can ensure quality and professionalism in your search—so don’t hesitate to ask about qualifications.
For more information, feel free to reach out to monique@howtobuya.house.
Meet De Financiële Alliantie: Your Go-To Mortgage Advisor for Expats
I recently met with De Financiële Alliantie in our Amsterdam office. They are a mortgage advisor based in Zwolle, but they cover the entire Netherlands, including Amsterdam.
Why Choose De Financiële Alliantie?
Joost Fokke, one of the founders, shared that helping expats has become a significant part of their business. “Expats from all over the Netherlands have found their way to us,” he explained. They recently welcomed Jan van Kooy back to the team. Jan is eager to meet clients and has a wealth of knowledge to share.
Jan mentioned, “Helping expats with solid advice is still a niche market. Many people might not realize that.” They know how challenging it can be to navigate the mortgage landscape, especially for newcomers.
User-Friendly Resources
De Financiële Alliantie is working on their English website, which is designed to be user-friendly. Joost emphasizes that it’s not just about having common information. “We provide a quality website alongside a personal service desk tailored to your financial needs.”
Their skilled staff will guide you throughout the process. Their website offers tips, tricks, and calculation tools to help you understand your options. If you’re serious about buying a home, they will connect you with a great advisor. This advisor will be your financial buddy during the journey.
Comprehensive Support
Jan explained, “Your advisor will always be available to answer questions and keep you grounded. They’ll stay in touch with everyone involved in the home-buying process.” De Financiële Alliantie keeps up with the latest mortgage news to ensure their blog section is full of relevant information.
If you’re looking for solid advice and a partner who genuinely cares about your home-buying experience, De Financiële Alliantie is here for you. Whether you have questions or want to discuss mortgage options, you can easily reach out.
Get in Touch
If you’re interested in speaking with a mortgage advisor, just call 038 421 44 57 or send an email to info@dfamail.nl De Financiële Alliantie is ready to assist you every step of the way.
About Me
My name is Monique Burgemeester, founder of How to Buy A House in The Netherlands. For over two decades, I have been dedicated to helping expats find their perfect homes. My mission is to provide the guidance and support necessary for a smooth and successful home-buying experience.
Is Bieden met Zekerheid Worth the Risk?
Is Bieden met Zekerheid the Right Choice for Homebuyers?
With homes in short supply and prices rising, many buyers consider bidding without a financing contingency to improve their chances. But is it the best option? A financing contingency allows you to cancel the purchase without penalty if your mortgage falls through, protecting you from paying 10% of the purchase price. The purchase contract sets a deadline for securing your mortgage, and you must prove serious efforts were made.
Bieden met Zekerheid offers a way to bid without a financing condition. It provides a certificate showing coverage (up to €750,000). If your mortgage falls through, insurance covers the penalties, giving you an edge in a competitive market.
Key Benefits for Buyers
- No financing contingencies: Sellers view your offer as more secure.
- Increased confidence: The insurance covers penalties if your financing falls through.
- Competitive advantage: Bidding without a financing condition helps you stand out in a tight market.
Costs of Bieden met Zekerheid
The cost is around €1,175, excluding additional costs like a valuation report. You pay a small amount per property.
Risks and Downsides of Bieden met Zekerheid
While Bieden met Zekerheid seems attractive, but it carries risks. Acting as your real estate agent without proper knowledge and depending solely on a certificate could lead to serious mistakes—or even prevent you from buying a home. This product is often used as a revenue model for mortgage advisors who are pushed into acting like real estate agents after just a two-day course. While the title of a real estate agent isn’t protected, real estate is still a profession that requires skill and experience. I always recommend working with a certified agent to avoid costly errors.
Is Bieden met Zekerheid Right for You?
Though the benefits are appealing, bidding without a financing condition has risks. If your mortgage isn't approved, insurance might cover penalties, but you could still lose the home. Make sure your finances are in order before making this decision.
Risks for Sellers
For sellers, accepting an offer without a financing condition may seem like a good deal, but there are risks. Without proper checks on the buyer’s financial stability, the sale could still fall through, leaving the seller to start over.
Conclusion
With 17 years of experience in the insurance industry, I strongly advise caution with Bieden met Zekerheid. Without solid financial planning and the right expert guidance, the risks are high. Always work with a certified real estate agent to protect yourself. Ensure your finances are solid before proceeding for a smooth transaction for both you and the seller. Keep your head up, do not get too disappointed if you lose a bid. With the right help, you will succeed!
I’m Monique Burgemeester. With a background in insurance, I bring a strong focus on transparency and safety to real estate. I’m open to new approaches, but my core belief is that buying a home should always be clear and secure. I’m dedicated to providing all the information you need to make informed decisions. Feel free to send me an email if you have any questions: monique@howtobuya.house
Open House Day: tips for buyers
Twice a year, the NVM Open House Day (NVM Open Huizen Dag) occurs. On this day, sellers open their homes for potential buyers to view. The next one is October 5th 2024. It’s a great opportunity to visit multiple properties without any obligations. Planning to attend the Open House Day? Be well-prepared by calculating your maximum mortgage beforehand so you can act quickly if you see the house you like.
Get Ready Tips
The Open House Day is a casual and non-committal event. However, with so many properties available, mixing them up is easy. You might wonder which house had that amazing roof terrace or whether it was the first or second property with the convenient elevator. Proper preparation can help you distinguish between the different homes.
How It Works
On Open House Day, walk into any home listed as participating. Find the full list of open houses here on Funda. There’s no need to sign up in advance—just visit any of the properties between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
Respect the Seller’s Space
It’s important to respect the seller's home during your visit. If they ask you to take off your shoes, kindly do so. Avoid opening cabinets and drawers without permission—if you wish to look into something specific, politely ask first.
Found What You're Looking For?
If you find a property you love on Open House Day, the next smart thing is to team up with a local and certified real estate agent who can guide you through the next steps. If you already have a real estate agent, mention the houses you will visit. You can always plan a second viewing together.
Make the most of this to explore and find your dream home!
Insurance Support for Expats in the Netherlands
Meet Sander Schreve, Your Trusted Insurance Expert for Expats! Sander is a senior insurance agent with years of experience helping expats in the Netherlands. Since starting with Nationale Nederlanden in 1999, he has gained extensive knowledge and is dedicated to protecting his clients’ valuable assets.
Sander shares insights into the mandatory insurance requirements in the Netherlands:
Health insurance is required for everyone. It ensures access to quality healthcare. You can switch providers each year on January 1st, but a health declaration may be needed. Research carefully to find the right policy for your needs. For English-speaking clients, Sander offers a special arrangement with ONVZ, a top insurer that provides additional discounts and excellent coverage.
Car liability insurance (WA-verzekering) is legally required. It covers damages you may cause in an accident. Premiums vary, but Sander helps find competitive rates to keep you protected.
Home insurance (Opstalverzekering) is usually needed if you own a home and have a mortgage. It protects your property, and Sander can guide you in selecting the best coverage.
Many clients have policies with multiple companies and don’t realize their full coverage. Consolidating your policies saves time, and Sander can help simplify the process, offering potential savings with package discounts.
Sander’s expertise helps expats protect their assets and comply with Dutch laws. His company, Hoogenraad & van Loon offers easy access to insurance options and direct support. Visit today to get started on securing the right coverage for you.
Contact Sander via his website.
Act fast and plan ahead in a rapid market!
Is it a good time to buy? We get this question often, so we’ve compiled an overview of frequently asked questions and enlisted an expat expert to answer them. We start with Barry Burgemeester of Burgemeester Vastgoed.
Barry has 23 years of real estate experience, with 19 of those years dedicated to helping expats buy homes. Unlike many who enter the real estate field without formal qualifications, Barry is a certified agent. His motto: Act fast and plan ahead in a rapid market!
Are we in a property bubble in Amsterdam?
If you're not looking to speculate on the Dutch property market and sell your home within 6 to 8 months, it’s generally a good time to buy. With tax rebates and low interest rates, mortgage payments are often less than rent. I'm here to help you find the right home in Amsterdam to suit your needs.
What is the real challenge when buying a house?
In today’s market, finding the perfect home is crucial, and that’s where we can assist you. Once you’ve found a house you like, the challenge shifts to the bidding process and how we present you to the seller. A real estate agent should guide you on what’s realistic and possible. While high bids once dominated, sellers now scrutinize buyers to ensure they can complete the purchase. We help you make a strong, secure offer that maximizes your chances of success. We need to present you and your background to the seller and their agent, highlighting why you are the ideal buyer for the property.
What should I do first?
The first step is knowing how much you can borrow. The housing market moves quickly, so once you find a home you like, it's important to act fast. Remember, you’ll need more than just the price of the property. While you can borrow up to 100% of the home's value, you’ll still need approximately 5% of the purchase price to cover costs like taxes, agent fees, and notary expenses. It’s a good idea to consult with a mortgage expert before you begin your search.
My offer has been accepted. What happens next?
Once your offer is accepted, the next step is signing a contract at the notary’s office. This includes you, your agent, the seller, and their agent. The contract, known as the voorlopig koopcontract (preliminary purchase agreement), gives you three days to change your mind. It also includes a clause stating that the sale is “subject to financing,” giving you roughly four weeks to secure a mortgage. While that may sound like plenty of time, there’s a lot of paperwork involved.
You only become the legal owner of the property after signing the deed at the notary’s office and having it registered with the Land Registry. If you are taking out a loan to finance the purchase, a mortgage deed will usually be required as well.
The mortgage deed ensures the lender, typically a bank, that you will fulfil your contractual obligations. This deed is also signed at the notary’s office and registered with the Land Registry. Even if you already own a property but need to borrow additional funds, a mortgage deed may be necessary.
Typically, the buyer chooses which notary will handle the transfer. Whether or not you have a real estate agent, you can always reach out to a notary for advice on other legal matters, such as family law.
Important Note: All financial transactions related to the property transfer are processed through the notary's escrow account, ensuring that no third parties are involved.
Once everything is finalized, you get the keys and the job is done!
Get in touch with Barry via his website! He is easy to talk to and works on a no cure no pay basis!
Elevate Your Home Buying Journey by Gaining Insightful Answers to Your Questions!
In this interview, we sit down with Monique Burgemeester the founder of How To Buy A House BV to discuss the exciting changes happening with her events. Monique shares insights into why she decided to make the gatherings more personal and the benefits it brings to our attendees. Unlocking the Future of Home Buying is the title to a new series of tailored events for serious home buyers.
Can you tell us about the event and the significant change you've made in its format from a large and busy gathering to a smaller, more personal setting?
Monique -> Absolutely! The event, "Elevate Your Home Buying Journey," is a special initiative close to my heart. We've transformed the home buyers event from its previous large-scale format into an intimate gathering for several reasons.
Could you elaborate on those reasons?
Monique -> Certainly. We've always valued the quality of interactions over quantity. In a large and busy event, it's challenging for attendees to have meaningful conversations with our experts. By limiting the number of participants to just 25, we can create a much more personalized and engaging atmosphere. We believe that the setting at Midtown Grill perfectly complements our commitment to quality interactions. Picture this: You have the chance to indulge in a delightful meal and engage in relaxed conversations with the relevant experts. It not only saves you time but also provides a comfortable way to gather information about perhaps the most costly purchase in your lifetime. By the end of the event, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need. How wonderful is that!
That sounds like a great change. How does this shift benefit attendees?
Monique -> It benefits our attendees in several ways. First, it allows them to have direct access to our 5 senior experts. In a smaller setting, they can ask specific questions related to their unique circumstances. Second, it fosters a sense of community and networking among attendees. Lastly, it ensures that everyone's questions and concerns take centre stage, guaranteeing a more enriching experience.
What motivated you to make this change?
Monique -> Well, the last significant event took place in February 2020, just before the initial lockdown, and it was so hectic that we hardly had the time to ensure everyone received equal attention. We were determined not to repeat this experience.
Additionally, over the years, we've witnessed an increasing demand for personalised guidance in the home-buying process. Buying a home is a substantial decision, and individuals seek tailored advice. In response to this demand, we aimed to craft an event that genuinely places the spotlight on each attendee. Our guiding principle has always been quality over quantity.
That's a thoughtful approach. Can you share any feedback or reactions you've received about this change?
Monique ->We've just wrapped up our inaugural event, and it's safe to say that we've hit the mark! Our attendees highly value the presence of our esteemed experts and are absolutely thrilled to access information tailored to their specific needs. As the evening unfolds, they have the opportunity to engage in even more personalized conversations. It's becoming increasingly evident that this is precisely what people have been seeking but unable to find online—a considerate and thoughtful approach to information sharing.
One noteworthy change is our introduction of an attendance fee. In the past, our events were free, but this model was no longer sustainable. By implementing this fee, we aim to ensure the quality and sustainability of our offerings. It allows us to allocate resources efficiently, ensuring that even if someone can't make it, we can still compensate our contributors, such as the chef.
It sounds like a fantastic transformation. What do you hope attendees will take away from this event?
Monique -> Our primary goal is to empower attendees with the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their home purchase. We want them to leave with a sense of clarity and connection. Whether it's finding the right property, understanding mortgage options, or navigating legalities, we aim to equip them with the tools they need for a successful home-buying journey.
That's a noble objective, Monique. Thank you for sharing your insights and the motivation behind this transformation. We wish you all the best with the event.
Monique -> Thank you, it's been a pleasure discussing this with you. With these new events, we are expanding our commitment to your satisfaction, ensuring that you leave with all the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. We look forward to welcoming you to these upcoming events in 2024 at Marriott Hotel Amsterdam, Midtown Grill!
If you need more information, make sure to shoot a message to monique@howtobuya.house
Interview | Anja Kroon, Interior Designer
Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with the immensely talented Anja Kroon, a renowned interior designer with a wealth of international experience and a background in building and architecture.
Anja, your journey as an interior designer with a background in building and architecture is truly fascinating. Could you share with us how your passion for design and architecture first began?
A Certainly! My fascination with design and architecture ignited during my childhood, where I found myself captivated by the harmony between aesthetics and functionality in the spaces around me. As I grew older, my passion only intensified, leading me to pursue formal education in architecture and design.
That's truly inspiring! How has your architectural background influenced your approach to interior design?
My background in architecture has a big influence on my interior design approach. I see spaces as a whole, considering both their structure and the interior elements that bring them to life. This helps me create designs that not only look beautiful but also make the space practical and easy to move around in.
How does designing for different cultures and regions influence your creative process on international projects?
Designing for different cultures and regions is a wonderful journey. Every culture has its own special style, traditions, and way of living, which I love incorporating into my designs. I take the time to deeply understand my clients' cultural values and dreams through research and close collaboration. This helps me create spaces that truly connect with them on a meaningful level.
Anja, what do you believe sets your interior design style apart from others in the industry?
I love creating spaces that are both elegant and functional. My design style combines timeless elements with contemporary aesthetics, ensuring that the spaces I create stand the test of time. I believe in crafting designs that not only look beautiful but also cater to the practical needs and lifestyles of my clients.
What would you say is the biggest misconception about hiring an interior designer?
Ah! That is a good question! Hiring an interior designer is often misunderstood as an expensive option, reserved only for large-scale home makeovers. However, interior designers are more than willing to assist with smaller refurbishing or restyling projects like bedrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.
In fact, a significant number of inquiries received by our office are for these smaller-scale projects. Our expertise can make a substantial difference in enhancing the appeal and functionality of your home, no matter its size. From optimizing space to suggesting creative storage solutions and introducing colour schemes, we bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to transform any space.
Moreover, we have access to several skilled building teams and therefore we can often complete projects more efficiently than traditional builders.
Anja, what advice would you give to aspiring interior designers aiming to make a mark in the industry?
For all aspiring interior designers, my advice is to stay curious and keep learning. The design industry is always changing, so staying up-to-date with trends, materials, and technologies is crucial. Find inspiration from different sources and trust your instincts. Remember, creating meaningful spaces requires passion, perseverance, and a deep understanding of your clients' needs. Keep pushing forward and believe in yourself!
Thank you, Anja, for sharing your valuable insights with us! Your words have clarified that interior advice is beneficial for everyone, not just the wealthy. We appreciate your time and expertise in answering our visitors' questions.
We're excited to have you as our special guest at the upcoming Boutique Event in Marriott Hotel. See you soon!
Interview | Tim Wormsbecher, Real Estate Agent
We have worked with many colleagues in the real estate industry over the years, and today, we would like to introduce you to Tim Wormsbecher, the proud owner and real estate agent / valuator at TWM Makelaardij .
After working in real estate for nine years, Tim decided to start his own adventure and in 2017, TWM was founded. In the last few years, the company has expanded, with the team now consisting of three real estate agents and two colleagues in the back-office. Notably, Tim's team are most active in the real estate market in Amsterdam, Purmerend and Zaandam.
We reached out to Tim to get an insight into valuation, the housing market in Amsterdam and the best way to approach finding the perfect home in the Netherlands!
What is the customer journey like when buying a house in the Netherlands?
The market in the Netherlands is quite transparent, the majority of houses is to be found on a central website and they are strict in the regulations the advertisements from realtors have to meet. So, it is fairly easy to orientate from home.
Where do I start in buying a house in the Netherlands?
In most cases, people in the Netherlands live relatively close to where the work, so this will most likely be your preferred area. The Amsterdam region is quite small compared to other international cities. With public transport or by car, 30 minutes can get you in completely different areas with different aspects to keep in mind as well as different populations and regulations.
What is the benefit of hiring a good real estate agent when buying a house in Amsterdam?
We know the market like no other, we estimate the pricing of houses, know what areas or what building eras have, which specific issues or things to watch out for. A huge part of our job is to estimate the value of the house so that you don't overpay; it's never the same percentage that you should offer over an asking price. We even regularly buy houses under the asking price. Thorough investigation is crucial.
Why should I not look for a property by myself?
Although the advertisements are transparent, there are so many rules and regulations when buying a house in the Netherlands. For example, if there is a house with a roof terrace but there was no permission granted, what to do if the homeowners association is not saving enough money for future maintenance, what is a ground lease (leasehold) and how does it affect the value of a house, what is the state of the foundation of the building, what are the costs of a renovation etc. We are aware of all aspects and can answer 99% of your questions right away.
What do I do if I want to sell my house in the Netherlands? What are my options? Is it good to hire a real estate agent in this scenario?
The best is to hire an agent to sell your house, the agent will determine the market value and based on that give advice for the asking price for the advertisement. There will be a professional photographer, floorplans and measurement certificate will be made and the advertisement text will be written by the agent. The house will be put online and the agent guides all the viewers through your house. Your agent will either choose to have a bidding deadline or when an offer comes in the agent will negotiate (in consultation with you) to get the highest price. Your agent will make sure the agreements are legally registered in a purchase agreement and you will also be guided through the rest of the process like signing, inspection and delivery.The entire process is taken care of with nothing to worry about.
If I sell my house, how am I guaranteed the highest bid?
Before starting the process you'll receive advice with the estimated value. Realtors are experts in determining the best price to put the house on the market. In addition, they will make sure the viewers are well informed and get excited to make an offer on your house. With either a bidding procedure or a perfect negotiation we will get you the best price possible.
Does a real estate agent have a pre-market register?
We have an exchange system where realtors put in the newest listings, in general agents are at least one or two days ahead of the main websites. This gives a head start for agent to schedule appointments for their clients and when buying a house it gives you the advantage that you and your agent can be there on the first day of viewings and maybe even buy the house before someone else will even visit the house.
What is the bidding process like?
It differs with every property. In this market most properties are sold with a deadline. Meaning that you have until a certain time to make a one-time offer. If the selling agent has no offers yet, you can make the first offer and see where it lands. If the selling agent receives multiple offers, it can be decided that, in consultation with the seller, there is going to be a deadline still and you have the option to participate in this.
How can my real estate agent help me to negotiate the best possible as a buyer or a seller? Find out what you can afford from mort advisor or bank - explanation.
First we would like to connect you with a mortgage advisor we work with a lot. This way we are very certain that if we make an offer, the buyer can indeed finance it. Before the negotiation, whether it is a deadline or a first offer, we are going to look at the property as an appraiser would. This way we have multiple of the same or similar properties which we can compare to the property the buyer wants to buy. When we are certain of a price, we can advise our buyer not to go over this mentioned price as going over it means the buyer buys it above market value and this is usually not what someone wants. The buyer has always the choice to go over the estimated market value but the buyer needs to know and must be willing to invest their own savings into the purchase of the property.
I need a mortgage so I need a valuation - can you explain in simple terms what a valuation is and why do I need one?
The valuation, also the appraisal report, is a report which is made by a third and independent party who appraises the property. This report goes to the bank / financial advisor so the mortgage process can start. The amount mentioned in the report is also the maximum which will be financed for the purchase of the property. It is also possible to finance a (part of a) renovation.
Can every company value my house?
No, only an appraiser can do so. For a mortgage, it has to be a validated report and only appraisers attached to the union of appraisers may have their reports validated.
Is it mandatory to valuate my house? Why / why not?
If the buyer is in need of a mortgage, yes. If not, it won't be necessary however it is always a good idea to hire an expert in estimating the property value before you make an offer.
What are the consequences if the valuation does not meet the purchase price?
There are two options. In the purchase agreement, it will say the buyer has a certain time to get the mortgage approved. If, in case of a too low amount mentioned in the appraisal report, the buyer hands over a rejection letter from the bank stating they cannot have a mortgage based on the fact the appraisal amount was too low, the buyer can cancel the purchase agreement. It is a choice however, you can always choose to continue, get the lower amount according to the report and add the rest from your own savings.
Do you have any tips on buying or selling in general?
Hire an expert to guide you through the process, this will save a lot of insecurities, answer a lot of questions and most important: a good agent will earn money, not cost money. This works for either a buying agent who protects you from not overpaying and a selling agent who does their best to get the highest price possible for you.
Managing Expectations in the Amsterdam Property Market
When it comes to purchasing your property in the Netherlands, there is a lot you need to be aware of before landing your dream home. All is not always as it seems, and there are many pitfalls to be cautious of along the way! Luckily, a good real estate agent can help you to navigate this unfamiliar territory.
First things first - what do you mean by ‘managing expectations’?
In this unusual market, it can be hard to know what kind of property is right for you, as well as what is attainable. A knowledgeable real estate agent will be able to guide you through properties you’re interested in to ensure your needs are met personally, financially and holistically - whatever they may be.
An important thing to remember is that although purchasing a property can be a very exciting milestone in your life, it is paramount that you are realistic about the outcome. It is possible that you may be disappointed during the journey to find your home, so try not to get too attached to an idea before it’s a reality.
What is bidding, and how can it affect the purchase process?
A 'bid' means that you're showing interest in purchasing a house - it's more like a gesture, or even a proposal. It is one of the elements of buying a property that needs to be managed with the utmost diligence, mainly because of the uncertainty of the result when the seller opts for a ‘closed bid.’ A closed bid may occur when multiple parties are interested in the property, so the seller decides to give them all the option to submit their best price blind within a limited time frame.
I’ve heard that the value of the property does not always match that presented online… is this true?
A part of managing expectations is that the prices you see first do not always align with the actual purchase price. Buying a home is the biggest investment most people will make in their lifetime. Unless you have unlimited funding, you need to be realistic about what it is you can afford because chances are, the price will be higher than what was advertised.
In the Netherlands, the purchase price can vary greatly from what you originally saw online. Your real estate agent will guide you through the effects that the valuation process will have on the property you are interested in.
Making Changes Within the Canal Ring
Something else to consider when buying property in Amsterdam is that if you are hoping to buy within the canal ring, it is a protected area. Since being added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2010, you need to be aware of some restrictions placed on the buildings should you want to make any changes to your home.
The majority of the time, it is not possible to make any changes at all, and if it is, a permit must be approved prior to the alterations. For example, if you’d like to add a rooftop terrace, or balcony, or make any changes to a building, you must have a permit known as an integrated environmental permit (omgevingsvergunning).
This permit is often required before you can make changes to the outside of the building, too. Handling these unique challenges can be tricky, however, Barry will be able to guide you every step of the way so you can make a confident and informed decision when it comes to purchasing your home. Even if you have permission to make alterations, it is good to consider that this will be costly, which brings to mind the phrase, ‘caveat emptor’ - let the buyer beware!
I’m ready to know more! Where can I find a good real estate agent?
Barry Burgemeester is a Dutch native and founder of Burgemeester Vastgoed. Originally hailing from Utrecht, he has worked for over 23 years in real estate in Amsterdam and his extensive knowledge of the area is uncontested. Barry’s background and expertise are invaluable to our expat clients, mainly because his wealth of experience within the Dutch market guarantees that he will be able to predict any potential issues or concerns you may have when introduced to this unfamiliar territory. Get in touch at info@burgemeestervastgoed.nl today!