Buying vs renting a house in the Netherlands

The pros and cons of buying or renting a house

As an expat, you have the option of buying a house in the Netherlands. Buying a house has its advantages compared to renting a house, but it has some downsides as well. So should you rent or buy a home if you’re living in a new country? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Buying

You know where you stand with your living expenses if you have a fixed interest rate.
You can deduct the interest from your taxable income, provided you meet certain conditions.
Repaying your mortgage means that you build up capital.
If house prices go up, the value of your home probably will too.
You are responsible for your home’s maintenance.
Higher fixed monthly costs, due to additional insurance, property tax and council tax.
Your living expenses could change if the mortgage interest rate changes.
Your home’s value may drop, leaving you to sell it at a loss.

Renting

Tenants’ rights are well-protected in the Netherlands; your landlord can’t evict you without good reason.
You may be entitled to housing benefit.
The landlord is responsible for your home’s maintenance.
It’s not easy to make changes to your home, as you need the landlord’s permission.
You are not building up any capital in your home.
Your rent will usually increase every year.
If you’ve done any work to your home, you will often not recover the investment.
There is limited supply of rental housing in popular cities/areas, so you will likely face a long wait.

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