Are you an expat considering your own home sweet Holland? Scratching your head on how to begin and own the process? We get it. Especially because navigating the complexities of real estate and mortgages can be challenging.
That’s why, we are here to provide you with invaluable insights over 2026 to make your journey to get a mortgage as smooth as butter.
In this article, we share our mortgage insights for expats in 2026
SOME IMPORTANT ASPECTS FOR 2026
- Tax transfer tax discount will increase
Starters under the age of 35 still do not have to pay 2% transfer tax if they purchase a house below € 555,000. This only counts if you haven’t made use of this advantage in the past. This is positive news, because in 2025 the purchase price was limited to houses below the value of € 525,000.
An advantage for young starters. This can save several thousand euros.
- The national Mortgage Guarantee limit will increase
If you buy a house with a purchase price or value below € 470,000 you can claim a mortgage with the NHG (in 2025 the limit was € 450,000). This is positive news because the NHG gives you the option to claim better mortgage conditions.
3. Single home purchasers are still able to borrow more
Like in 2025, individuals wishing to purchase a home on their own are able to borrow an extra € 17,000 (based on an income of at least € 30,000). This is an initiative with the reasoning that single person households have lower costs than other households.
- Getting some help from parents?
Are you lucky enough to have parents who can give you a helping hand?
If so, there are some great options to boost your home plans. You could consider a tax-free gift to invest more in your property, or a family loan that can be structured separately from your regular mortgage.
Keep in mind: these loans come with specific rules, so make sure you get proper advice before making a decision! (Hint: we are happy to help 😊).
SUSTAINABILITY AND BORROWING POWER
Although the advantages are slightly less compared to last year, the government still offers great opportunities and subsidies to help make homes more sustainable.
When it comes to your loan, there are also important things to know:
- Buying a new home: Depending on the energy label of the home you wish to purchase, there is potential to borrow an additional € 5,000 (label C, or D), to a maximum of € 40,000 (label A++++ with a 10-year energy performance guarantee), on top of your maximum borrowing capacity.
- Renovating your existing home: Depending on your current energy level, you may be able to borrow up to €20,000 more if you are renovating your home with sustainable initiatives.
Having a sustainable house will not only be good for the environment, it will save you energy costs, but additionally, lenders also provide a favorable interest rate to houses with higher energy labels, lowering your monthly costs.
WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU
