Buyer's costs: what should you take into account?

For most existing homes for sale, the asking price is listed “k.k.” (kosten koper): buyer's costs. That means you, as the buyer, pay the additional costs of the transfer. It's good to know what to budget for, so you're not caught off guard.

Transfer tax

For a home you will live in yourself, transfer tax of 2% applies. If you are between 18 and 35 and buy below a certain property value threshold, you may qualify for a one-off exemption under certain conditions. Get properly informed about this, as the rules and thresholds change regularly.

Notary and land registry

The notary draws up the deed of transfer and (if there's a mortgage) the mortgage deed, and registers the home in your name with the Land Registry (Kadaster). Fees differ per office, so it pays to compare.

Advice and brokerage costs

If you engage a mortgage adviser or buying agent, they will charge fees. These often pay for themselves through a sharper purchase price or more suitable financing.

Do the sums in advance

As a rule of thumb, budget a few percent on top of the purchase price for additional costs. We're happy to help you form a realistic picture of your total investment, tailored to your situation.