New-build or existing housing: what suits you?

Anyone looking for a home often faces the choice between new-build and an existing home. Both have clear advantages, but also points of attention. The best choice depends on your wishes, your budget and your planning.

The advantages of new-build

A new-build home is energy-efficient and meets the latest requirements. You'll have little maintenance in the first years and benefit from modern installations. You can often make your own choices for the kitchen, the bathroom and the layout. With a good energy label you can sometimes also borrow extra. Have that calculated via mortgage advice.

The points of attention with new-build

It often takes a long time before a new-build home is ready. You usually buy off-plan and so don't know exactly how the home and the surroundings will look. There can also be extra costs for upgrades, such as a more luxurious kitchen or floor. During construction you often already pay interest on the part of the loan held in a construction account.

The advantages of existing housing

An existing home is usually available sooner. You see exactly what you're buying, including the neighbourhood, the garden and the view. Older homes often have their own character, with details missing in new-build. In addition, existing homes are often in established neighbourhoods with mature greenery and amenities.

The points of attention with existing housing

With existing housing there can be deferred maintenance. The home is also often less energy-efficient. Take into account costs for sustainability upgrades and renovation. A structural survey gives insight into the condition, and in our article on sustainability you'll read which measures are worthwhile.

Buyer's costs

With new-build you usually don't pay transfer tax, because VAT is included in the price. This is called turnkey (vrij op naam). With existing housing you as a buyer usually do pay buyer's costs. Read more about that in our article on buyer's costs.

Where do you find new-build?

New homes are being developed in various cities, including in Amsterdam-Noord and Arnhem. Also check out our projects. For developers and investors we offer guidance via our project agent.

What suits you?

Want to move as quickly as possible and love character? Then existing housing often suits you better. Looking for energy efficiency and little maintenance, and can you wait? Then new-build is interesting. A buying agent helps you compare the options fairly.

Frequently asked: is new-build more expensive?

The price per square metre of new-build is often higher than that of a comparable existing home. On the other hand, you don't pay transfer tax and you have low maintenance costs in the first years. The energy bill is also usually lower. So compare not just the purchase price, but the total cost of living over a longer period. An adviser can set the two options side by side.

Existing housing with potential

An existing home that needs sprucing up can be particularly interesting. With a good renovation and sustainability upgrade you turn it into your own dream home. Our colleagues at renovation are happy to help with that.

Making the right choice together

Browse the current property listings or get in touch. We're happy to think along with you about the home that suits you.