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.

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 […]