What does it take for an expat family to truly bloom? In this "Beyond the House" interview, AIS Amersfoort shares why the local community is the secret to a soft landing and why your very first month in the Netherlands should be about "planting a friendship."

When you buy a home in the Netherlands, you aren't just investing in bricks and mortar; you're building a foundation for your family's new life. From the technical reality of wooden piles and concrete slabs to the emotional resilience needed for a successful relocation, I explore why finding 'solid ground' is the key to going from searching to settled.

Wondering how long it actually takes to get the keys once your offer is accepted? From the 3-day cooling-off period to the 6-week mortgage hurdle, I'm breaking down the realistic 2026 timeline for expat buyers in the Netherlands. Discover what to expect during the final inspection and how a professional aankoopmakelaar keeps your journey on track.

Meet Chris O’Connell of O’Connell Tours — the trusted partner helping expats arrive smoothly in the Netherlands. Beyond the house, it’s about people.

If you’re an expat looking to buy your first home in the Netherlands, here’s a financial update that might influence your timeline: From 1 January 2026, the “startersvrijstelling” — a one-time transfer tax exemption for first-time buyers — will apply to homes valued up to €555,000. That’s up from the €525,000 limit in 2025, and […]

If you’ve been looking for a home to rent in the Netherlands — especially in Utrecht or the Het Gooi region — you might have felt it already: the Dutch rental market Q1 2025 is under serious pressure. For many expats arriving with fresh hopes and plans, the reality of house hunting can come as […]

Last night, a group of expat women gathered around a table in Eemnes. There were cups of tea, soft music in the background, the scent of paint, and the gentle hum of conversation. Some of us had just met. Others were reconnecting. All of us were taking a pause from daily life to be present, […]

The recent Open House Day in the Netherlands, organized by NVM, attracted around 42,000 people who came to check out properties across the country. This event happens twice a year and is a big deal for both sellers and buyers. It’s a chance for people to look at houses without needing an appointment. The huge […]

Moving to a new country is exciting — but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re searching for a place to live, trying to open a bank account, or simply figuring out how to navigate daily life in the Netherlands, there’s a lot to take in. That’s where Expat Things comes in! […]

Starting a new life in a different country is an adventure — one filled with excitement, challenges, and countless small moments that shape your experience. When I decided to launch my business, I wanted a name that truly captured the essence of what it means to be an expat. And so, Expat Things was born. […]