Buying your first home starts with a good calculation

How much can you borrow as a first-time buyer?

Your maximum mortgage mainly depends on your gross income, your fixed obligations and the interest rate. Buying together? Then both incomes count. No permanent contract yet? A mortgage is often still possible with a letter of intent or flexible income. A student loan lowers your maximum, but under the current rules your actual monthly payment counts, not your original debt.

Start with the maximum mortgage calculation: within two minutes you'll see your borrowing capacity based on the current Dutch lending norms.

Buying with little money of your own

You can borrow up to 100% of the property value. The additional purchase costs (the kosten koper, such as the notary and the valuation) are normally paid from your own money. Fortunately, several schemes help first-time buyers on their way:

• Are you between 18 and 35 and buying a home up to € 555,000? Then the first-time buyer exemption means you pay no transfer tax.
• Many municipalities offer a starter loan that bridges the gap between your maximum mortgage and the purchase price.
• A gift, for example from your parents, increases your budget, and in some cases parents can act as guarantor.

NHG: a safety net and often a lower rate

Buying below the NHG limit of € 470,000 (or € 498,200 when you finance energy-saving measures)? Then the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) is often a smart choice. You pay a one-off fee, and in return you get a safety net in situations such as unemployment or divorce, plus usually a lower interest rate.

From calculation to first home

An online calculation quickly points you in the right direction, but every situation is different. In a free, no-obligation conversation an independent mortgage adviser checks your numbers, the schemes that apply to you and how strong your bid can be. Request a mortgage advice consultation and start your search well prepared.